Easing Holiday Stress: How to Support Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being
BY THE CENTERED LIFE THERAPY
The holiday season is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” but for many families, it can also be overwhelming. Changes in routine, social gatherings, sensory overload, and high expectations can lead to stress—not just for parents, but for children as well.
Research shows that children thrive on consistency and predictability, and disruptions to their routine can increase anxiety and dysregulation (Gunnar & Quevedo, 2007). Montessori philosophy recognizes the importance of structure and autonomy, making it a great guide for navigating holiday stress while preserving your child’s sense of calm. Here’s how you can help your child stay emotionally balanced during the holiday season:
1. Maintain Predictability Where Possible
Children rely on routines to feel safe and secure. While holiday events can be exciting, too many disruptions can lead to overstimulation and meltdowns.
✔ Action Tip:
Keep wake-up and bedtime routines consistent, even on busy days.
Prepare your child for changes: “Tomorrow we’ll visit family, and there will be lots of people. If it feels too loud, we can take breaks together.”
2. Watch for Sensory Overload
Bright lights, loud gatherings, new foods, and crowded spaces can be overwhelming, especially for children who are highly sensitive. Research suggests that sensory sensitivity is linked to emotional regulation challenges in some children (Dunn, 2001).
✔ Action Tip:
Offer sensory breaks: Create a quiet space where your child can retreat if they need a break.
Let them wear noise-reducing headphones if needed.
Pack familiar foods for events if new foods cause stress.
3. Set Realistic Expectations for Social Interactions
Not all children enjoy hugging relatives or engaging in long conversations with distant family members. Forced interactions can increase anxiety and discomfort. Montessori education respects a child’s autonomy in social interactions—something parents can apply during the holidays.
✔ Action Tip:
Give your child options: “Would you like to wave, high-five, or just say hello?”
Validate their feelings: “It’s okay if you’re feeling shy. You can take your time.”
If relatives expect hugs, advocate for your child’s comfort: “We’re letting them choose how they want to greet people.”
4. Focus on Meaning Over Material Gifts
Research shows that children who focus on experiences and relationships rather than material gifts tend to have higher well-being (Chaplin & John, 2007). Montessori education emphasizes experiential learning, which can be incorporated into holiday traditions.
✔ Action Tip:
Shift focus from presents to presence: Plan a special family activity, like baking together or taking a nature walk.
Encourage giving: Let your child help pick out or create gifts for others.
Talk about gratitude: “What’s one thing you loved about today?”
5. Take Care of Yourself, Too
Children pick up on their parents’ stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, prioritizing your own well-being will help your child feel calmer, too.
✔ Action Tip:
Build in small self-care moments: Take deep breaths, step outside for fresh air, or set boundaries around obligations.
Practice self-compassion: “It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. We’re doing our best.”
If holiday stress is affecting your child’s behavior, respond with patience: “I know today has been a lot. Let’s take a break together.”
Creating a Calm and Joyful Holiday Season
The holidays can be magical, but they don’t have to be perfect. By maintaining predictability, respecting your child’s boundaries, and focusing on connection over consumption, you can create a season that feels meaningful and manageable for your whole family.
💡 Looking for extra support? The expert psychotherapists at The Centered Life offer on-campus emotional support for students, virtual parenting consultations, and yearly workshops to help families navigate challenges with confidence. Reach out today to learn more!
Looking for More Support?
The expert psychotherapists at The Centered Life offer on-campus emotional support for students, virtual parenting consultations, and annual workshops designed to help families navigate emotions with confidence. Reach out today to learn more!