Families,
We often think of children’s health in terms of the physical–scraped knees, healthy meals, and plenty of rest. But their mental and emotional well-being are just as important, and it’s something we can nurture every day, together.
One of the most powerful things we can do is help children understand their feelings. When we name emotions and connect them to experiences, like saying, “You’re feeling sad because your toy broke”, we’re teaching them that their feelings matter and can be managed in healthy ways. Simple tools like tearing paper or squeezing playdough can give big emotions a safe outlet.
Strong, loving relationships are also key. Setting aside even ten minutes of uninterrupted time where your child leads the activity can make a world of difference. I used to call this “Ten Minute Time” with my kids–a chance to connect deeply, even in the busyness of life. Small gestures, like warm eye contact at pickup, remind your child that they are seen, heard, and deeply loved.
Encouraging independence builds confidence, too. Let them try things on their own, even if it’s messy or slow. Celebrate their effort, not just the result. These moments show children they are capable and supported.
Thank you for all the ways you support your child’s growth. Together, we’re building not just strong minds, but strong hearts.
Make it a Happy Day!
Tammy Taylor
The holiday season is arriving! This time of year adds so much magic–but also a more hectic schedule, overstimulated kids, and a little extra stress and anxiety for kids and parents. Here are a few tips to help your family to navigate the season:
• Communicate what to expect with holiday events
Kids can be more prepared (and more well-regulated!) when they know what to anticipate. Make sure to mention if there will be crowds, lines, special rules at a location, or if it will change the routine of that day.
• Find a quiet place to calm down
Taking a break in a quiet place can do wonders. If that’s not an option, you may consider positioning your child so that crowds, bright lights, or decorations are behind them. A slight sensory break can still help!
• Bring tools to avoid overstimulation
-Are new foods a challenge for your child? Bring some familiar foods from home or feed them beforehand.
-Is it difficult for your child to sit still? Find times for a movement break! Before the event starts, do some marching, bunny hops, jumps, and walks, or dance it out.
-Do they struggle with noises? Bring headphones, or let them know a quiet break spot.
-Struggle with relatives / unknown people? Let them sit between known, familiar family members. Let them know they don’t have to hug someone (and teach them to offer a high five or nuckles instead if that feels more comfortable).
-Too long of a line and too long of a wait? Bring some small fidget toys or a “busy bag” to help entertain.
- Feeling overwhelmed? Take some deep breaths together. A hug can help, too!
• Try not to overschedule & keep routines when possible
When possible, try to keep a balanced schedule. If a particularly busy stretch is unavoidable, see if you can schedule in some downtime afterward for everyone to rest, regroup, and return to familiar routines.
• Decompress
Big holiday fun can come with big holiday feelings–or even just a little built up stress.
-Talking through an event afterward may be helpful for your child. With some children, it may help to start with silence and slowly ease into the conversation.
-Coloring, art, or tactile activity (like play-doh or kinetic sand) is a helpful way for our bodies to process built up tension.
-Exercise and movement is powerful for both kids and parents in reducing stress, alleviating anxiety, and decompressing.
Articles to read more:
https://www.metroymcas.org/blog/2024/12/17/child-care/managing-overstimulation-during-the-holidays/
https://msstherapy.net/holiday-stimulation/
https://answers.childrenshospital.org/holiday-anxiety/
https://stretch-n-grow.com/4-methods-for-decompressing/
