What child doesn’t love Christmas…
Parties, Christmas carols, end of year presentations, concerts, presents, being told to sit on some big fat hairy stranger’s knee for a photo (forget stranger danger),having to hug and kiss family and friends they may have not have seen for months and sugar, sugar, sugar not to mention less sleep and stressed out parents. What’s not to love!
Add some general anxiety to the mix and you have the perfect storm.
Christmas time can be to put it simply overwhelming.
Here’s how you can help your anxious child cope.
1. Prepare your child, explain the days activities to the child before they happen, that way there are no surprises. Inform them either the day before or in the morning so expectations can be met.
2. Don’t over schedule activities, yes it’s a busy time of year however 4 events in one day is over the top even for an adult.
3. Have time out. Where can your child go to escape from other sugar crazed kids and jolly adults. Make a plan where they can take some time to defuse on their own and listen to some music or do something that grounds and soothes them.
4. Stick to a good bedtime routine. Good restorative Sleep is necessary for all body systems and mental wellness.
5. Don’t force them to hug and kiss people they are not comfortable with, teach them to be polite, perhaps they can shake hands or give a hi 5 but it’s important for them to know that physical boundaries are important and respected.
Implementing these simple tips will help you and your child enjoy the festive season.
Merry Christmas everyone.