How to Help Your Kids Manage Holiday Stress (Without Losing Your Cool)
Holidays Aren’t Always Magical for Kids
The holidays are often painted as a magical time for kids, full of joy and potential presents but also full of chaos and stress. And just like us, our kids can feel the weight of all that holiday hustle and stress. Whether it’s the pressure of social events, changes in routine, or simply picking up on your stress, kids need support to navigate this busy season. But don’t worry—we have some actionable tips to help your kids manage holiday stress while creating moments of joy and connection.
Why Are They Melting Down Over Elf on the Shelf?
Kids might not know how to express their holiday stress. They may act out, withdraw, or seem anxious. The reality is your child’s brain is still developing. The part responsible for emotional regulation—the prefrontal cortex—won’t fully mature until they’re around 25 years old. That means their emotional circuits might trip more often than you’d like, especially during the high-stress holiday season. When your child is frustrated, tired, or overwhelmed, start by naming what they might be feeling. For example, say, “It looks like you’re feeling frustrated about all the holiday activities or all that’s happening. Let’s talk about it.” Avoid dismissing their emotions with, “You’re fine.”
Acknowledging your child’s feelings may feel counterintuitive, especially if you didn’t grow up with that experience. But think about this: when you’re frustrated or overwhelmed, do you want someone to tell you to calm down or that your feelings don’t matter? Or do you want to be fully seen and heard?
When you gift your child the space to feel heard and understood, you’re not just helping them—you’re healing generations of trauma.
A simple “I see you’re upset. Let’s work through this together” can go a long way.
Other Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress
Children do best with predictability, even during the holiday chaos. While schedules might shift, keeping core routines like bedtime, meal times, and quiet moments intact can provide a comforting sense of stability.
Instead of striving for Instagram-worthy moments, focus on what truly matters: connection. Simple activities like baking cookies, watching holiday movies, or reading stories together create meaningful memories that outshine the pressure of a perfectly decorated tree or matching outfits.
Remember, your kids are watching how you handle stress. Show them positive coping skills like deep breathing, taking a short walk, or simply saying, “I need a moment to reset.” When they see you manage stress effectively, they’re more likely to mimic those behaviors into adulthood.
Your Kids Need a Calmer, Happier You
The holidays are a great time to model self-care for your kids. One of the best gifts you can give them is a calmer, more connected version of yourself. If you’re ready to prioritize your well-being and build stronger family bonds, therapy can help, and we encourage you to reach out to us and book an appointment.
If you know someone having a hard time through the holidays or who could benefit from this blog, please share this with them—it might be the gift they didn’t know they needed.
Related Read: Encouraging Quotes for Women of Color
