PANK Blog: Managing Emotions Over the Holidays

The holidays can be exciting but also stressful for children. Keeping regular routines for sleep, meals, and physical activity helps children manage holiday stress. Each child is different and may handle crowds/new people/excitement differently. Prepare your child(ren) for events by sharing basics (who, what, why, how long, and expectations) ahead of time. Encourage your children to discuss how they feel about events. This knowledge and open communication helps anyone navigate new or different experiences! If they have big emotions, help them manage by being supportive, listening, help them to solve problems and teach them simple stress management techniques like deep breathing.



If you are noticing persistent behavior challenges or changes, let us know. Symptoms of anxiety and depression can include excessive worrying, avoiding activities they used to enjoy, frequent stomachaches or headaches, trouble sleeping, irritability, or seeming sad most of the time. Younger children may show more tantrums or clinginess, while older children and teens might withdraw from family or friends. Early help can make a big difference, and we can provide evaluations and guidance at Pediatric Associates.