Winter Break Tips for Families

Start with Self-Awareness

Before planning activities, reflect on your own needs and strengths. Are you energized by structure or spontaneity? Understanding your preferences helps set realistic expectations for yourself and your family. Psychologist Dr. Helmut Roehrig explains, "I think an important point is to understand yourself first and your strengths, especially when routines change. Then, understand your child and family and what their needs might be that you can anticipate and what their needs might be in the moment." Flexibility is key—what works one day might need adjusting the next, and that’s okay.

Understand Your Child and Family

Children often experience the holidays differently than adults. Anticipate their needs by considering what energizes or overwhelms them. Are there specific activities they love or situations that might lead to frustration? By tuning into these patterns, you can better prepare and set everyone up for success. For example, if your child thrives on structure, you might incorporate a simple schedule. If they need downtime, leave space for spontaneous play.

Calm Stressful Moments

Diagnostic Psychologist, Bradley Paramore, Ed.S., shares several simple calming techniques that can help both children and adults reset during moments of stress or overwhelm. Consider these go-to strategies:

• Belly Breathing: Encourage slow, deep breaths to calm the nervous system.
• Grounding Techniques: Use the 5-4-3-2-1 method (identify five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste).
• Physical Movement: Take a short walk or dance to music to release energy.
• Music! Listen to calming music, or any music you enjoy.

Get Creative with Downtime

Downtime can lead to boredom, but having a variety of activities ready can keep everyone engaged. Try these ideas:

• Consider a schedule, or just a variety of activities that include of crafts, outdoor play, reading, chores, and screen time.
• For younger children, use a First/Then schedule (e.g., "First clean up toys, then we can play a game").
• Add a game element to non-preferred tasks: make car rides fun by spotting landmarks or turning chores into competitions.
• Use timers and countdowns to ease transitions, such as giving a 5-minute warning before leaving.
• Offer fidgets or sensory toys to help with hyperactivity.

Focus on What to Do

Rachel Eccles, LPCCS, RPT, recommends setting expectations positively by focusing on what your child can do, or what you DO what your child to do. Instead of saying, “Don’t run around,” try, “Let’s find a spot where you can draw or build with blocks.” Previewing activities together also helps to set the tone for success and encourages collaboration. Rachel adds, "If you collaborate with your kids and give them something to do, you both are more likely to have a great time."

Celebrate the Small Wins

Amid the busyness of winter break, remember to celebrate small victories. Whether it’s a peaceful transition or a shared laugh, these moments are worth appreciating. Dr. Helmut Roehrig reminds us, "Keeping flexible and keeping expectations realistic are key."

With a little planning and a lot of understanding, winter break can be a time to recharge, connect, and enjoy the season together.

Thank you to contributors Rachel Eccles, LPCC-S: Bradley Paramore, Ed.S., Diagnostic Psychologist; and Helmut R. Roehrig, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist.

Further Reading:

Five Ways to Stay Healthy for the Holidays

How Adults Can Help Children Prevent and Decompress from Holiday Stress