How to Keep Stress Low and Make the Most of Winter Break with Your Family

This week I was invited back to FOX 5 San Diego and I couldn’t have been more thrilled to be back in the studio! I loved the topic we discussed on the Morning Show because I believe it affects all families this time of year. I offered my expert advice and in this blog I want to share in more detail what I discussed on set if you missed the LIVE segment!

 

What Parents Need to Keep in Mind

 

Parents should remember to keep expectations low. Things will not go as planned. Stress is going to be higher and tolerance will be lower than usual. My motto is “Stress less, Play more.” We often make the assumption that we have two weeks off from school and therefore we should fill it with all the things because we have all of this time, but in reality what we should be doing is shifting our perspective to look at the fact that we have two weeks off and we should use it to rest, connect, and rejuvenate!

 

My advice is to plan a few things over break but also leave time for your kids to be a little bored! This is typically when they are the most creative and imaginative. I also suggest planning in advance and not just winging each day. Have some structure and keep some of your usual routines – especially bedtime! Limit as much sugar and screen time as you can, and leave plenty of room for restful activities and fresh air! One of my favorite activities to do is scavenger hunts – indoors and outdoors!

 

 

How to Minimize Meltdowns

 

Some meltdowns are inevitable this time of year especially since kids are out of school and on a more unstructured schedule, they are probably eating more sweets during this season, which alters behavior, and might be having more screen time, which will also affect behavior. Plus, if you are stressed, they will be stressed and will likely have a shorter tolerance window.

 

So my advice is:

• Try not to schedule too much in one day
• Pick and choose your battles and give more choices so your kids feel a sense of empowerment/control
• Give your kids ample notice as much as possible on what to expect as far as the routine for each day
• Give them downtime to unwind and regulate if they are getting over stimulated

 

How to Make the Most of Winter Break

 

My best advice is to BE PRESENT! Don’t worry about getting the perfect video or photo. In fact, put your phone away and don’t let other stressors or distractions get in your way. Spend dedicated time together even if it’s just 10 minutes a day where you have a conversation, put a puzzle together, go on a hike/bike ride, or play a board game…make eye contact and really listen and reciprocate.

 

I also want to remind parents to let go and just play. Have fun with your family and make memories…put the laundry and dishes aside and let go of any inhibitions and be child-like with your kids. I recommend having a snowball fight with soft, cotton snowballs. It will help alleviate stress, decrease depressive symptoms, and improve your attachment with your child.