Helping Kids Avoid Holiday Overstimulation
The holidays are a magical time of year for children, with fun events and activities, not to mention toys and gifts. While some children do just fine during this time of year, for others, the family parties, sugary treats, and influx of new toys can be too much. If you know that your child is one who is easily overwhelmed, you can take steps to keep things calm during the holidays.
- Maintain your routine. Children thrive on routines, so try to keep your days as “normal” as possible during the holidays. Eat meals at regular hours and keep up with nap times and sleep schedules. Doing so can help provide structure for children so that they don’t feel anxious or overwhelmed.
- Avoid overstimulating toys. When buying toys for your children, go for those that don’t light up, talk, or move on their own. These electronic toys can be overstimulating for many children. Consider toys that require imagination or movement, or offer the gift of an experience that’s appropriate for the child.
- Keep desserts and treats to a minimum. When you are at parties or family events, keep an eye on what your child is eating. With dessert tables and bowls of candy readily available, some kids will try to push the limits. By monitoring how much sugar they consume, you can help keep them from becoming overstimulated.
- Allow time for breaks. Holiday parties are fun for adults, but maybe not so much for kids. When bringing your children to a holiday party, be prepared with ways for them to have some downtime. You can go for a walk outside for a break, bring fidget toys, or let them have a blanket or lovey to bring them security.
- Know when to call it a day. If overstimulating situations end up getting the best of your kids, feel free to excuse your family and head home—your hosts will appreciate it. For older kids who might not act out but still feel anxious, create a code word so you’ll know when they’ve had enough.
