Does Your Kid’s Behavior Change During the Holidays?
Holiday season means lots of change in your kids’ daily schedules. Some children react to this with change in their behavior:
- Outbursts
- Non-compliance
- Whining
- Sleep issues and many other unwanted behaviors.
Helping your kids cope with change during the holidays!
3 things you can do as a parent to help your kids make better choices & cope with all the changes that occur during the holidays:
- Communicate: “Johnny, just because we are not home anymore, the rules haven’t changed! The rule is: ____(provide a clear expectation).” Take a moment and explain in a concise and clear way what you expect.
- Your kids may just be a little confused about what’s expected from them when they are traveling with you for the holidays (or, when Auntie Barbara and her kids come to visit for a few days).
- Allow them to ask questions.
- Create some routines while traveling: (or, if at home for the holidays, but the kids’ normal routine is changed).
- Create some choices for your kids: Choices that include:
— Rewarding activities
— Quality time with you (where your kids get your undivided attention for even a short period of time)
— Some time and space to themselves
The 3 Most Important Points About Routines
- Be consistent (even if for just the limited time during the holiday period)
- Help your kids follow new routines with VISUAL reminders (like, charts, lists, pictures… ). When using VISUAL reminders, it’s important to keep these 2 keys in mind:
- Take your child’s perspective. Remember your kids’ developmental level & their ability to remember a routine.
- Use pictures or words that are clear and rewarding to your kids.
- Be Clear. Communicate your expectation about the rules or routines in a clear language that is easy to understand for your kids. Keep your message short & sweet.
I am available to do Parent Education Workshops, either Private or PTA Sponsored Classes. Contact me at 425-772-6698. Visit us at: Createhappykids.com
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