The holidays are upon us and it is my most favorite time of the year I've always loved the Holiday season - there is so much joy in the air and people just seem... nicer! The lights in my house and coziness it brings just light up my heart!
Now that I'm a mom, the holidays bring a whole new level of joy as we see the magic through our littles eyes. However, with that may also come some stress.
So today I have three tips to remember as we approach the holidays...
1. You know your child the best.
The holiday events often throw a wrench into our normal routines but that doesn't have to be the case. This season, I encourage you to focus on you child's needs. If they can't handle missing a nap or staying up late, that's okay. Don't feel the pressure to go with the flow if that doesn't work for you and your kiddos. Because I don't know about you, but I don't have the patience for a toddler meltdown from exhaustion and sugar overload when we are all supposed to be singing Jingle Bells.
2. Don't force physical affection
Yup, I said what I said. Your child has boundaries and teaching them that who comes into their physical space is their choice is important. So, if they don't want to give Great-Grandma a smooch or twice removed second cousin Bill a hug, that's ok. Offer a fist bump or simply say thank you and Happy Holidays for them.
3. Our stress is contagious
The holidays are supposed to be a joyful time but with all the to-dos that us mommas put on our plates to try to make the season perfect and magical for our littles... the stress creeps in. So here's your reminder, take a breath and remember that your child doesn't care if everything is perfect and planned. They just want you, their momma. And we all know they toss the toy aside and play with the box it came in anyway.
So this holiday season, lets remember the most important part, the time with our loved ones. Don't fall prey to societal expectations or the pressure from other people. Take a breath, do what works for you, and enjoy the holidays!
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