Helping Children Handle Holiday Stress
How to Manage the Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Kids
The holiday season is a time for joy for many people but it can also bring stress, especially for children with behavioral health challenges. It may help parents to understand a child’s needs and when to take action to make the season more enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone.
Parenting is hard work. Even small, intentional actions can make a big difference in your child’s well-being, especially around the holidays. It’ll be over before you know it.
Symptoms of holiday stress in children and teens
Children often express stress and anxiety differently than adults. Parents and caregivers should look for signs that the holiday season is becoming overwhelming for children.
- Behavioral symptoms. Increased irritability, tantrums or defiance
- Physical symptoms. Complaints of headaches, stomachaches and fatigue
- Sleep disturbances. Difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking or nightmares
- Emotional withdrawal. Avoiding social interactions with peers and family
- Regressive behavior. Acting childlike, thumb-sucking or clinginess
- Academic struggles. Difficulty focusing on schoolwork and declining academic performance
Recognizing symptoms of holiday anxiety early can help address your child’s needs and create a more peaceful holiday experience for everybody.
Are you a good role model for holiday healthy habits?
Children often mirror their parents’ behavior, so modeling healthy lifestyle habits is crucial during stressful times. Here’s how parents and caregivers can help set a positive example for children during this time of year:
- Maintain a balanced schedule. Show your children how to prioritize rest and relaxation amidst the hectic holiday season.
- Prioritize self-care. Whether it’s a brisk walk, meditation or reading, take time for yourself to recharge.
- Communicate kindly. Use calm, clear language to discuss plans or family challenges.
- Focus on connection, not perfection. Reinforce the importance of togetherness and family traditions over expensive gifts.
- Practice gratitude. Foster a positive outlook with your child, reflecting and discussing what you’re both thankful for now.
When children see their parents managing depression and stress effectively, they learn that it’s possible to navigate challenges with more patience and resilience.
7 Ways to Avoid Holiday Anxiety in Teens and Children
By reducing behavioral triggers and emphasizing connection, you may help children approach the holidays with calmness and joy. Here are practical strategies to keep the anxiety at bay:
- Encourage exercise. Daily physical activity, like a family walk, can ease anxiety and help boost their mood.
- Plan with kids. Let children and teens help decide which activities to prioritize, providing a sense of control.>
- Stick to routine. While holidays may disrupt schedules, maintaining steady mealtimes and bedtimes can provide stability.
- Limit overstimulation: Create quiet breaks during busy days to help both kids and parents decompress.
- Communicate openly. Encourage children to share their feelings about the season and validate their emotions.
- Set boundaries. Avoid overcommitting to events or visits, and teach your child how to say “no” politely.
- Minimize screen time. Replace excessive technology use with family-oriented activities like board games or baking.
During this special stretch of time, people and families around the country are enjoying holiday traditions, time off work and travels to see friends and family. Even with all those potential triggers, try embracing this season as an opportunity to model resilience, kindness and understanding. By focusing on connection and setting realistic expectations, you’re giving children a far greater gift than anything shiny that’s wrapped under the tree.
Contact LifeWorks Schools
If your student continues to feel stress around the holidays, consult a child psychologist or another licensed mental health professional. Call LifeWorks Schools for help at 215-489-3028 or fill out the contact us form to reach out today.