Dan’s Top Five Tips for Getting Through the Holidays for Parents: Support for Parents of Young Children Who Feel Overwhelmed

1. Build in Downtime (Yes, on Purpose)

The holidays don’t have to be “go, go, go.”
Choose at least one “ordinary day” with no events or obligations. Slower days help kids regulate and give parents breathing room.

2. Shift the Focus from Gifts to Connection & Generosity

Replace material rewards with shared activities—reading together, crafts, or play dates.
A 2022 study in Infant & Child Development by Fast, A et al. (Mutual identification promotes children’s generosity) found that children show more lasting generosity when they can see the person they’re helping.
Examples:
• Raking leaves for a neighbor
• Making a card for a friend
• Bringing cookies to someone they know
These simple acts build empathy more effectively than anonymous donations.

3. Find the balance with screen time

“There is evidence that rules focusing on balance, content, co-viewing and communication are associated with better well-being outcomes than rules focused on screen time.” Moreno, M. et al. May 2022.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends implementing the 5 C’s of Media Use: Child, Content, Calm, Crowding out, and Communication.

4. Plan a Date for You and Your Partner (Then Plan a Play Date for Your Child)

Nurturing your relationship keeps your family system strong.
Your child benefits from seeing you care for your well-being and your partnership.

5. Give Your Child 15–20 Minutes of “Arrival Attention”

When you walk in the door, offer your child a short burst of focused, mindful attention.
This small ritual fills their emotional cup—making the rest of your evening smoother.

A Gentle Reminder: No Shame, No Blame

As you try any of these tips, speak kindly to yourself.
Your inner critic may say you’re not doing “enough,” and comparison to other families can sneak in—but it doesn’t have to.
Remember to focus on your own family’s needs.

Not every suggestion will fit every family. Use what resonates and let the rest go.
If you’d like support using these ideas during the holidays or beyond, I’m here to help.