12/16/2025
🎁 The holidays are magical—but also overwhelming. 🧠💥
One minute you’re sipping cocoa, the next you’re peeling a crying toddler off the floor at Grandma’s because their sock seam “felt weird.” 😩
Let’s be honest—holiday overstimulation is real (for kids and parents), and it’s 100% okay to admit it. Between the travel, new faces, skipped naps, sugar highs, and “What do you say to Aunt Carol?” moments... our kids can go from jingle bells to meltdown mode fast.
Here’s how to keep the joy and your sanity intact—straight from strategies that align with the American Academy of Pediatrics:
🧠 1. Know the Overload Signs
Tantrums, clinginess, hyperactivity, sudden “I’m not hungry” at dinner = their nervous system is waving the white flag.
They're not trying to ruin the holidays—they’re just fried. 😬
⏳ 2. Stick to a Semi-Schedule
As much as possible, protect sleep and snack routines—even during travel or big events.
A rested, fed child is a less melty child.
(And let’s be honest, same goes for us grown-ups.)
🛑 3. Build in Breaks
Find a quiet room or create a calm-down corner at gatherings. Let your child retreat when it’s all too much.
You can even call it “The Elf Recharge Zone.” ✨
Bring noise-canceling headphones or a favorite fidget toy if your child is sensory-sensitive.
🗣 4. Use “In the Moment” Scripts
It’s hard to find words when your child’s sobbing under the buffet table. Try these calming phrases:
✔️ “It looks like this is too much right now. Let’s take a break together.”
✔️ “You’re safe. I’ll stay close while you feel those big feelings.”
✔️ “It’s okay to be upset. I’m here to help you through it.”
Want more phrases like this? Comment STRESS and I’ll send you a helpful list to screenshot or print for holiday gatherings. 🎄
🎄 Remember: No one expects perfection—not even the AAP.
If all you do is keep your child fed, safe, and somewhat dressed through December… you’re winning. 💛
You’ve got this, parents. Let joy lead—but don’t be afraid to say no to one more cookie, one more event, or one more blinking reindeer sweater. 😉