Ready or not, the holiday season is upon us. Maybe this is your first holiday season in separate homes or maybe it’s been years. Either way, the holiday season brings up emotion that can often complicate our experiences; this article really highlights this topic well. Considering the holidays are prime memory-making times for our kids, below are the Top Tips I recommend to help make this season smooth and enjoyable for everyone:
Tip 1: Plan Ahead: this might seem simple but really nailing down far in advance who has the kids what days goes far when bringing stability and helps takes the emotion out of situations. You had them on Christmas eve last year? Maybe it’s her turn this year. Presumably you follow a parenting plan but that is not always the case.
Tip 2: Over Communicate: Not only do specific dates need to be established but times, pickup locations, what clothing needs to come, etc. Often the holidays have altered details and we must overly communicate our expectations or be prepared for disappointment and frustration.
Tip 3: Maintain Traditions: Kids thrive when they experience traditions. Try and pick a handful of things you did prior to your separation and repeat them even though you are no longer together. Maybe you always went caroling with your family, still do it! Maybe you typically went to the snow with her family, you can still do it! Maybe you always built gingerbread houses as a family, do it anyway.
Tip 4: Relax: Our kids are more intuitive than we think. They know when we are stressed and likewise feel grounded and safe when we are relaxed. Be an example for your little kids that even in the midst of change it is OK to find contentment and joy.
If you would like more personal support to make the holiday season more enjoyable for your family, pop over to my website for details.
Be well,
Sarah
If you are crisis please call 911.
If you would like more information about how EQUIP Counseling can you and your family emotionally visit Equipcounseling.com