Preparing for Holiday Gatherings – Managing Expectations
The holiday season is filled with family gatherings, festive events, and special traditions—but for many kids, these gatherings can be overwhelming. Whether it’s the excitement, the crowds, or the shift in routine, holidays can stir up big emotions for children, especially those who struggle with anxiety.
As parents, it’s essential to prepare your child in advance for what to expect during holiday gatherings. By managing expectations and creating a plan for when emotions run high, you can help your child feel more confident and in control, reducing the chance of overwhelm and meltdowns.
Here’s how you can help your child navigate holiday gatherings with ease:
Discuss What to Expect
Before the event, sit down with your child and talk about what’s coming next. This simple step can work wonders in easing anxiety. Explain where you’re going, who will be there, and what activities will take place. For example, “We’re going to Grandma’s house for dinner. There will be lots of people, but we will be there to relax and have fun.”
By discussing the event beforehand, your child will know exactly what to expect and won’t be caught off guard by surprises. For kids who struggle with change or uncertainty, this step can provide a sense of comfort and security.
Create a Plan for Overwhelming Moments
Sometimes, even with the best preparation, kids can still feel overwhelmed during a holiday gathering. The noise, the hustle and bustle, and the new environment can be too much. It’s important to have a plan in place for these moments.
Talk with your child about what they can do when they start feeling overwhelmed. A few ideas could include:
• Taking a break: “If you start feeling upset, you can come sit with me in the quiet room for a few minutes.”
• Using a coping tool: “You can use your fidget toy or take deep breaths to calm down.”
• Taking a walk: “If you need some space, we can step outside for a few minutes to get some fresh air.”
Having these strategies in place will help your child feel more in control and empowered when emotions start to escalate.
Use a Holiday Social Story
One great tool for preparing your child is creating a “Holiday Social Story.” This story walks your child through the steps of the gathering, from arrival to saying goodbye. It explains what to expect and how to handle tricky moments. You can include things like:
• Who will be there
• What the schedule of the day looks like (e.g., eating, playing games, etc.)
• How to manage big emotions, like feeling overwhelmed or nervous
Social stories are especially helpful for kids with anxiety, as they can refer back to the story when they start to feel uncertain. A visual or written story helps them understand the structure of the event and what to do in different situations.
Reassure and Validate Emotions
While managing expectations is key, it’s equally important to validate your child’s feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure, and reassure them that you are there to help. For example, “I know big family events can feel overwhelming, but remember we have a plan, and I’m here with you the whole time.”
Validating your child’s emotions allows them to feel understood and supported, reducing the chance of anxiety spiraling into bigger emotional outbursts.
Ready to Start Preparing?
The holidays don’t have to be a stressful experience for your child. By managing expectations, creating a plan for overwhelming moments, and offering reassurance, you can set your child up for success and create positive memories together.
