Tips for the Holidays

Tips for the holidays

As you read this there are only 3 weeks to December 25^th.  This year December 25^th is not only Christmas day but is the first day of Hanukkah. On December 26^th the first day of Kwanzaa starts.   These three days have many things in common although originating from different belief systems, lasting for different number of days and having different traditions.   What they have in common is a celebration of beliefs that center on family, togetherness, understanding and acceptance.  What they also have in common is stress that comes with changes in routine and extra demands on time.  Every family member, regardless of faith, wants this time to be special and something to be remembered.

Healthychildren.org has some tips to help make these winter holidays less stressful and demanding.  It is suggested that as close as possible keep your child’s usual sleep and meal schedule.  A rested and fed child is much easier to get along with as are their parents.  It is important that adults take care of themselves also by getting enough sleep and keeping to schedule.

Try to keep things simple so you can focus on one thing at a time.  It is suggested that you stop and pay attention to what is happening at the moment, concentrate on the details even briefly, and then notice how you feel about it.  Taking the time to concentrate on the details of what is around you helps store the memory and allows your brain a rest from the many details of organizing these special times.  This may help clarify thoughts and feelings and help balance the hustle and bustle of things like shopping, cooking and getting together with family.

Give to others by making annual holiday traditions of sharing your time and talents with family and people who have less than you do.  This helps teach empathy to your children.  Ask them what they would like to do to make someone else happier. Help them remember that many children and adults are alone, maybe grieving or fearful for the future.  Being aware of their sadness is important.  Even more important is to recognize when you are sad and ask for help for yourself, your children, family members or friends, if it is needed.

Unfortunately holidays have become very commercialized.  It is hard not to feel pressured to over-spend.  Consider making one or two gifts. Help your child make a gift for a parent, grandparent, or other important adults and friends.  Chances are, those gifts will be the most treasure ones and will teach your child many important lessons.

Most important of all is to enjoy the holiday by having time to be with your family.  Have your child help plan the time and to help with the preparations.  Sometimes just sitting around and telling family stories is the best and most remembered times.