Holidays can be an exciting time but they can also be stressful!

This is especially true for children who thrive on routine, supportive boundaries and predictability.

Here are some tips to minimise stress and help you get through the silly season with your child:

1. Keep things the same:

• As much as possible, stick to your daily routines. School may be finished but try and have a similar morning routine and sequence of events during the day on the holidays.

2. Prepare for things that are different:

• Talk to your child about days that will be different ahead of time. Explain how the day will be different and when things will go back to normal.

3. Use visuals:

• Show your child pictures of new places they might go and people they might meet (they might not remember all the family and friends they saw last year). Set up a calendar to help them countdown to key dates. Use social stories to prepare your children for going back to school/kinder. Click here to download a social story to use at home.

4. Set expectations around treats:

• As adults, we’re able to enjoy different foods and gifts knowing that it won’t last. Your child may find it difficult to understand why these things are given to them one day and taken away the next. Set expectations in advance about when and how much they will get.

5. Don’t judge your reactions:

• Be kind to yourself and your child. Don’t expect things to be like a romantic movie. Its okay if the holidays aren’t always relaxing, you can still enjoy moments of fun with your child!

Written by Eleanor – Speech Pathologist at De Silva Kids Clinic