Holidays can be a stressful time. How many times have you thought, “6 weeks with the kids, what are we going to do”, or “How am I going to survive the holidays?”
Totally normal! The amount of times my girlfriend has called me during the day over the holidays to ‘vent’ is endless. But it is not only parents that may feel anxious and stressed leading up to and during the holidays. Children can as well. Without the structure of school during the holiday break, kids may feel as though they are not “grounded” and do not have the same support from teachers and friends that are usually involved in their daily routine. During the holidays, children are out of their daily routine.
Routine is exceptionally important for children from as young as when they were babies right into adolescences. For young children, routine helps establish security, peace and a sense of stability in their life, which in turn, helps establish their self-esteem, sense of self and structure within the family. Similarly, routine helps set the stage for the effects of consequences and places children and teens in a predictable environment. When not in a predictable environment, with little security, anxiety and stress may eventuate.
Just like when we feel anxious and overwhelmed when we feel we have no sense of stability, predictability and security, children and teens feel the same. These are all common and normal emotions. The key is to try and find the best way to help your children cope with these challenging times.
1. Be alert of any changes in behaviour, mood, agitation, frustration, hyperactivity, restlessness and feelings. The sooner you recognize any increased signs of stress and anxiety, the sooner you can assist your child.
2. Plan ahead! If you are not going away, research on the internet for any events in your local area. It may be going to your local farmer’s market, Christmas fete, or shopping centre entertainment.
3. Don’t think you have to spend an extravagant amount of money to entertain the kids. There are plenty of FREE events and activities around while wonderful creative ideas to do at home. Just use your imagination and work with other mums to create ideas.
4. Create a daily schedule. Plan a daily schedule with your child and get him/her involved in this activity so they feel they are taking ownership and sense of control. It is just another way of establishing routine and continuity into their lives when the routine of school is not in play.
5. Make sure your kids have regular play dates with their friends. It is important that they maintain their friendships and contact over the long summer holiday break.
6. Are there school holiday camps your child can attend? Sporting camps, youth camps, community camps; or simply a holiday program that interests your child.
7. Take time out for yourself! Don’t forget that the importance of maintaining your health, vitality, and emotional and physical energy during the stressful times.
8. Talk to your children about what they are feeling and that it is okay for them to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. They need to be able to vocalize their emotions, helping them gain confidence and security within themselves.
Just remember, Relax and enjoy the holidays and special time with your kids!!!
What are your tips for surviving the summer holidays?
Linking up with Essentially Jess
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