Holiday Stressors

Do You Know Your Children’s Stressors?

Parents often get immersed in the hustle and bustle of the holidays. With all the cleaning, cooking, baking and entertaining it is easy to miss things that stress your child and cause acting out behavior.

Here is a list of things that can stress your child out. Taking time to identify and address them will make your holidays more peaceful.

Not enough:

water
sleep
down time
protein/food
routine
exercise
connection
limits and/or clear expectations

Too much:

people
loud noise
bright lights
smells
sugar
tv
irregularity
gaming
hurrying
Stimulation/excitement
Discipline from too many people

Tension between family members and sibling rivalry are additional culprits. Being forced to kiss, hug and perform for family and friends can also be a source of stress for your children. Don't forget, this list applies to us too! Check in with yourself and see what you need when you are feeling stressed. The best way to teach our children how to manage stress is how we model it to them in our own lives.

Parenting Practice

Before you correct an acting out child, pause, take a deep breath, and ask yourself: what could be causing my child to feel stressed? Keep these things in mind first so that your are addressing the source of the behavior rather than simply reacting to their behavior.

Happy Holidays!

Kathryn

May they be filled with connection, good food, lots of laughter and Rest & Recovery.

Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/dad-and-daughter-hugging-each-other-while-smiling-6139349/

NOW AVAILABLE!!

The new edition of the "Redirecting Children's Behavior" book is now out! Click here to order your copy on Amazon or Kindle . There are a ton of new materials to help you discipline in a way that connects you and your child during an altercation. Wouldn't you rather that than you and your child walking away feeling empty, frustrated or angry?