Discover practical strategies to support your child through changes during the Christmas and school holiday season.
Introduction
Welcome back to Together Thriving! As we approach the festive season, with Christmas and the school holidays just around the corner, it's a time filled with excitement—but also change, which can be tricky for many of us, especially our little ones.
Change is Tricky!
Change is challenging for everyone! It might involve the classroom teacher being away for the day, trying a new food, a friend moving away, playing UNO with the pick-up-put-down rule, or even bigger changes like your therapy clinic moving. During the holiday season, routines shift, schedules change, and new activities fill our days.
For many of the kiddos at Together Thriving, coping with change is especially difficult and often brings up big emotions. It's important to acknowledge that change is a challenging experience and that it's okay to feel frustrated, sad, or confused. Here are a few things to consider that might make the transition a bit easier!
1. Re-establish a Routine
Routines are comforting and provide structure to our busy lives. For many of our kiddos, a lack of routine can increase stress and anxiety. Visual schedules are a great tool for re-establishing routines, especially during the holidays when regular schedules are disrupted.
Use Visual Schedules: Create a visual timetable for holiday activities.
Maintain Consistent Bedtimes: Try to keep sleep schedules regular.
Plan Ahead: Discuss upcoming events to prepare your child for what's next.
2. Prioritise Connection
The power of connection is often undervalued! Prioritise spending quality time with family, friends, and loved ones. It will fill up your cup and give you the strength to navigate new changes.
Family Traditions: Engage in holiday traditions that bring joy and familiarity.
One-on-One Time: Spend individual time with your child to reinforce security.
3. Validate Emotions
Validation is important so we don't feel alone in our emotions, and it demonstrates to kids that it's okay to feel that way. Recognise that things are hard and try not to disregard how someone is feeling—even if we think it's a small problem.
Acknowledge Feelings: "I can see you're feeling worried about visiting new places."
Offer Support: "It's okay to feel nervous; I'm here with you."
4. Make Time for Self-Care
Prioritise doing the things that fill up your cup! Whatever that may be, make at least 5 minutes each day to do it or incorporate it into your routine.
Relaxation Activities: Enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or take a short walk.
Mindfulness Practices: Try deep breathing exercises or gentle stretching.
5. Keep Talking About It
Keeping our worries or thoughts bottled up inside can impact our physical and mental health. It's really important to talk to someone you trust and get it off your chest—it will immediately make the load feel less overwhelming.
Open Conversations: Encourage your child to express their feelings.
Share Stories: Talk about your own experiences with change.
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Change often brings stress and anxiety, and when we're in this state, we aren't functioning at our best. Be kind to yourself and prioritise what's most important to get done. It's okay to let things slip!
Self-Compassion: Remind yourself that you're doing your best.
Adjust Expectations: It's okay if everything isn't perfect during the holidays.
A Thought to Reflect On
"Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end." — Robin Sharma
Embracing change can lead to growth and new opportunities.
As we navigate the festive season and all the changes it brings, remember to acknowledge that change is hard and look after yourself. By implementing these strategies, you can support yourself and your child through this period with more ease and confidence.
With warmth and care,
Chelsea + The Together Thriving Team
Further Reading
If you're looking for additional insights on helping kids handle transitions, we recommend reading Maggie Dent's article "Tricky Transitions: Why They Happen & What Can Help". It's full of practical tips and compassionate understanding.
Share Your Thoughts
We'd love to hear how you're planning to navigate changes during the holiday season. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
Stay Connected
For more tips, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our practice, follow us on Instagram at @together_thriving. Join our community to stay connected and inspired.
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