Easing Holiday Anxiety: Preparing Children for Big Family Gatherings

Family


What About the Holidays Triggers Anxiety in Children? 

As the holiday season arrives, it brings excitement, gatherings, and new experiences—but it can also trigger holiday anxiety in children. The hustle and bustle, unfamiliar settings, and interactions with new faces can make kids feel both thrilled and a bit overwhelmed. Children may feel a mix of excitement and sensory overload, from bright lights and festive music to crowded rooms and new people. This response is perfectly natural—it’s simply a way their senses process the increased activity around them. By offering reassurance, helping them adjust, and providing quiet moments when needed, we can create a supportive environment to help them fully enjoy the festivities. Here are tips to help guide children through the holiday day season:

Pre-Gathering Preparation

  • Routine Familiarization: Talk with them about the upcoming event. Use stories or visual schedules to help.
  • Practice Social Interactions: Role-play greetings and navigating crowded spaces to build confidence.
  • Set Expectations: Let them know what to expect, “we’ll have dinner, then play.”

Easing Anxiety on the Day

  • Bring Familiar Comforts: Allow them to bring a favorite toy or blanket as a source of security.
  • Set a ‘Safe Space‘: Appoint a quiet area where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
  • Engage Gradually: Let them join activities or interactions at their own pace, without pressure.

Post-Event Reconnection

  • Decompress Together: Give your child time to relax after the gathering and avoid over scheduling your child. Chat about what they enjoyed and any challenging moments.
  • Keep the Routine: Returning to familiar routines helps children feel grounded and safe after a big day. Children thrive off of routine and schedules.
     

It's important to remember that every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. By incorporating these steps, we can help children adjust to the holidays in a comfortable, supported way.