How to Help Children Enjoy the Holidays
by Tami Silverman, President & CEO of Indiana Youth Institute
There are a lot of things for kids to love about the holidays—school vacation, extra cookies and treats, and, of course, presents. While the festive season is exciting, it also can be overwhelming for children. Like adults, kids can experience stress or overstimulation from packed schedules, unfamiliar routines, and heightened expectations. Fortunately, there are simple, research-backed ways to make the season both more enjoyable and meaningful for children, while minimizing some of its stress.
1. Prepare Kids in Advance
One of the best ways to ensure children feel comfortable during the holidays is to prepare them for what’s ahead. Discuss upcoming gatherings or events with your kids. Let them know who will be there, what will happen, and how long each event will last. Children thrive on predictability, and knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety and prevent meltdowns.
According to a 2024 review in the Journal of Family Theory & Review, children who are given clear expectations and information about transitions or changes in routine exhibit fewer behavioral challenges during periods of high stimulation. By setting the stage and outlining what you expect of your child at each event, you help them feel more in control and prepared for the experience.
2. Teach the Joy of Giving
The holidays often come with a focus on receiving gifts, especially for children. However, this is also an excellent opportunity to introduce the joy of giving. Encourage children to think about the people in their lives and what might bring those people happiness. Involve them in selecting or making gifts or cards for family members, friends, or teachers. Even young children can contribute thoughtful ideas when asked what they’d like to give.
Research from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley highlights that altruism in children—such as the act of giving or helping others—boosts happiness and promotes emotional well-being. Engaging kids in gift-giving fosters empathy and gratitude, making the season more meaningful for them.
3. Expand the Spirit of Giving Beyond Family
The holidays are also an ideal time to teach children about the importance of giving back to the broader community. Whether through volunteering, participating in a toy or food drive, or donating to charity, children can learn valuable lessons about compassion and community responsibility. For example, many families encourage their children to select a few toys or books to donate, or they provide a small budget for kids to choose a charitable cause.
According to the Journal of Philanthropy and Marketing, families who involve children in charitable activities report a lasting increase in empathy and social awareness. These small acts of giving help kids understand their potential impact, even at a young age, while fostering a sense of gratitude for what they have.
4. Maintain Consistent Routines
While the holidays often bring a break from school and usual activities, maintaining some level of routine is crucial for children. Kids thrive on stability, and irregular bedtimes, excessive sweets, and packed schedules can disrupt their behavior and moods. To avoid burnout, try to limit the number of major holiday events to one per day and schedule downtime between activities. Build in breaks where kids can rest, read, or engage in quiet play.
A 2024 article from the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of sleep, balanced nutrition, and physical activity for children’s mental health. These basic routines are even more essential during high-stress periods like the holidays. Balancing festivities with moments of calm helps ensure children remain happy and healthy throughout the season.
5. Create Space for Unstructured Fun
Amid the rush to check off to-do lists and attend gatherings, it’s easy to forget the simple joys of spending quality time together. Set aside moments for unplanned fun with your kids—whether it’s playing a favorite board game, baking cookies, or watching a holiday movie. These small, spontaneous activities often become the memories children cherish most.
A 2020 study found that unstructured, playful interactions between parents and children strengthen bonds and reduce stress levels for both parties. By stepping back from the hustle and prioritizing fun, you create a relaxed environment where meaningful connections can flourish.
6. Give Yourself a Break
It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to create the “perfect” holiday. Remember, your kids won’t remember every detail of the decorations or how many events you managed to squeeze in. What they will remember is how they felt during this time. Focus on traditions that matter most to your family and don’t hesitate to say “no” to less significant activities.
The holiday season is a time to celebrate, connect, and reflect. By preparing your children for the festivities, fostering a spirit of giving, and maintaining a balance between structure and spontaneity, you can help them create joyful, lasting memories. So take a breath, embrace the chaos, and cherish the giggles and smiles that make this season truly magical.