The Christmas holidays are an emotionally intense time for children.
- Christmas holidays are a source of excitement and anxiety for children.
- To help them feel secure, maintain stable routines as much as possible, such as meal times and bedtimes.
- Getting children involved in Christmas preparations can be a great way to channel their excitement while reinforcing their sense of control.
While the Christmas holidays are a magical time, they are also a source of excitement and anxiety for children. As parents, it is possible to help them fully experience the magic of Christmas while helping them avoid outbursts of emotion.
Create reassuring routines
During the Christmas holidays, habits can be disrupted, causing anxiety in some children. To help them feel secure, maintain stable routines as much as possible, such as meal times and bedtimes.
Take time to talk regularly about upcoming changes, especially if you’re going on vacation or visiting family. This way, your children will be sufficiently ready to adapt to their new benchmarks.
Involve children in preparing for the festivities
Involving children in preparing for Christmas can be a great way to channel their excitement while reinforcing their sense of control. You can involve them in decorating the house, preparing meals or even creating greeting cards or objects that encourage them to express their creativity.
Not only will you give them responsibilities, but you will also have an opportunity to teach them important Christmas values, such as sharing, collaboration and gratitude.
Create moments of calm and privacy
The holidays are also an opportunity to get together with family, go to the Christmas market or attend events where there are people. All these stimulations can generate anxiety and excitement, which is why it is essential to provide moments of calm and privacy.
You can create a quiet space where children can retreat if they feel overwhelmed by their emotions, but also offer them relaxing activities such as reading a book, drawing or listening to soothing music.
By creating moments of respite, you allow them to recharge their batteries and better manage their emotions to spend Christmas with joy and good humor.
Find out more: “Controlling Emotions for children: 50 original stories to learn to manage your emotions”, Educa’ Fun collection.
