The holiday season brings joy, excitement… and sometimes tears or meltdowns. For little ones, December can feel loud, busy, and unpredictable. Here’s one simple strategy to help your child stay grounded during the festive chaos:
Try a “Preview & Pause” Routine
Preview:
Before going to any event—family gathering, Santa visit, holiday party—give your child a simple run-through of what to expect.
For example:
“First we’ll say hi to Auntie, then we’ll eat snacks, then we’ll play. If you need quiet time, you can come hold my hand.”
Pause:
During the event, build in a quick check-in. Step aside for 30 seconds together and ask:
“How is your body feeling? Do you want to stay, or do you need a break?”
This tiny moment helps children feel in control and reduces overstimulation.
Bonus tip: If routines are out of whack, keep one predictable anchor—like bedtime stories, bath time, or a favourite song before bed. One familiar ritual can stabilize the whole day.
