While the holidays are a joyful time of year, they can also be stressful with traveling, shopping and seasonal activities. New Parent Services, a division of Wellspring Family Services, offers these tips for reducing holiday stress for both you and your young child:
Pay attention to the actions of your baby or toddler. If he seems fussier than usual, he may need some quiet time or extra cuddle time with you. If he doesn't want to eat as much, try to find some of his favorite simple foods that he eats often. If he seems especially clingy at this time, indulge his attachment to you. He may be feeling insecure with all of the new people and extra activities that have been introduced into his world.
If you shop with your young child, bring along a favorite toy to keep him company in his stroller. Be sure to have plenty of snacks available if he is old enough to eat solid food. Try to keep to his feeding schedule as much as possible, and try to find a quiet area, if possible, for eating.
If you take your child to a family gathering, try not to let him be passed around from person to person too much. If you have a lot of family and friends who want to hold your little one, be sure to remain in his sight. He may be more willing to let others hold him if he knows that you are nearby.
Keep it simple. Time spent with your young child is more important and creates better treasured memories than a mountain of toys.
