1. Try to avoid rushing and be more flexible.
The holidays will happen even if you don’t get everything on that long to-do list completed. So focus on doing the things that can create positive memories of the holidays for both you and your child. Let your child help with appropriate holiday activities even if it takes longer than usual to complete the activities.
2. Prepare ahead of time.
Does grandma shower everyone with kisses when she arrives, but your child is uncomfortable with lots of physical contact? What challenges do long car trips cause? Is your child sensitive to noise, lights, lots of activity or meeting new people? Know when your child is nearing his limit and how to help him calm down before he’s out of control.
3. Keep routines as much as possible.
Bedtimes, meals and other routine activities often get pushed aside during holidays, but they’re important touch points for everyone in the family. Sleep-deprived adults and children are both quicker to become upset.
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