Holiday survival guide for parents

Holiday survival guide: Stress less and make more space for smiles

The end of the year crept up fast, didn’t it? Are you feeling steady and ready…or frazzled and frantic? Either way, a deep breath always helps. 

We’ve also got three simple, stress-busting tips to help you enjoy the season. And it all starts with permission.

Permission to simplify. Permission to spread joy. Permission to show up for your child. Here’s how:

1. Keep it simple (and sane)

You’ve been wooed by the Pinterest-perfect holidays on social media. Expectations can skyrocket (along with the bill for ribbon and garland and candles). But here’s the truth: you don’t need to do it all.

Leftovers still feed hungry bellies. Last year’s wrapping paper works just fine. And even a single strand of twinkle lights can make a room feel magical.

Lower your expectations. Embrace simplicity. Protect your energy. Your joy matters too.

2. Spread some joy (and get some back)

Holidays are stressful, but you can boost your happiness by giving a little to someone else. Psychologists call it “vicarious joy,” and it works!

Try these simple ideas:

• Help a neighbor carry groceries
  
  

• Give the person behind you the parking spot you were waiting for
  
  

• Bake cookies and share them
  
  

• Send a thank-you note to your child’s favorite teacher, coach, or counselor

Even small gestures can lift your spirits — and the spirits of those around you.

3. Show up for your child (on their terms)

Kids can be extra tired, overstimulated, or moody during the holidays. They pick up on tension, frustration, and confusion, so take the opportunity to tune in instead of stressing out.

Try this:

• Set a timer for “Five Minutes of Fun” — dance, snuggle, read a story, or let your child choose a quick activity.
  
  

• Be prepared when dinner out or the post-dessert game night runs long — bring a bedtime to-go bag, so if you have a tired one, they can get pjs on and find a favorite book or toy.
  
  

• Surrender the fantasy that joy needs to be had 24/7 — bad moods, burned cupcakes, and bleak weather don’t take the holidays off, so when plans have to push or change altogether, be flexible and forgiving.

Remember: you know your child best. Honoring their needs reduces meltdowns, increases joy, and keeps your holidays a little brighter.

Give simplicity a try

Stress-free holidays aren’t about perfection; they’re about connection, joy, and presence. Give yourself permission to simplify, spread happiness, and show up for your child.

Start today: pick one thing from this guide and see how it changes your day.

Your kids will notice. Your family will feel it. And you never know, you just might see your own joy soaring, too.