Thank you for your interest in Kid Matters, the blog page of Bonnie Socket, Ph.D. & Associates.  Since this first post finds us in the middle of the holiday season, I thought it would be a good idea to talk about holiday stress.  While this is a common topic of discussion at this time of the year, I would like to describe how children experience stress during this busy time.  Too often, young children get caught up in all the hype they experience around them and are bombarded by ads on television, newspapers and the internet, displays at the mall, school festivities, family gatherings, etc.  Children often can't decide what is important to pay attention to and what is not important.  This often leads to a child paying attention to everything and then become overstimulated.  When children are overstimulated, they may react in negative ways, sometimes showing problem behaviors.  For example, these behaviors may include moodiness, sleep problems, restlessness, hyperactivity, anxiety.  It is important to monitor any behavior changes in your children and to try to determine the source of these changes.  If you suspect holiday stress and overstimulation as a possible cause, you may want to try one or more of the following:

1.  In spite of the many and exciting holiday festivities, make sure your child's schedule is as consistent as possible.   Children thrive on routine and knowing what to expect.  They will be able to deal with stress better if their daily schedules remain as predictable as possible.

2.  Good nutrition and exercise are excellent buffers against stress.  Although time is more limited for meal preparation at this time of the year, try to limit prepackaged, convenience food and fast food resturants as much as possible.  Find time for family outings which include exercise.

3.  Arrange to spend some "down time" with your child each day in an activity that is not related to the holidays.  This could include reading a book, playing a board game, working on a craft project, taking a walk together or just having a soothing cup of hot chocolate.

4.  It is helpful when parents are able to manage their own stress.  Children learn by what they see, and if you remain calm and relaxed, your child will probably also be more calm.
 
Let us know what you are doing to help your children deal with the stresses of the holidays.  We'd love to hear from you!    Dr. Bonnie S.