How to make holiday stress easier for your family this year

The holiday season can be a stressful time for parents, especially when trying to balance work deadlines with the needs of young children. Terri Huggins, an editorial consultant from West Windsor, New Jersey, faces this challenge every year as she navigates through a flurry of events, parties, gift obligations, and family visits.

One of the biggest stressors for parents during the holidays is the pressure to meet expectations, both from others and themselves. From attending multiple school performances to buying gifts for teachers and family members, the mental load can become overwhelming. Huggins highlights the importance of not only finding the perfect gifts but also staying within budget and managing shipping deadlines.

To make the holiday season more manageable, experts suggest rethinking expectations, asking for help, handling family drama strategically, and giving yourself something to look forward to in January. Setting intentions for how you want to feel during the holidays can help guide decision-making and prioritize activities that align with those feelings.

It’s also essential to reassess traditions and expectations to determine what truly brings joy and what can be let go. Delegating tasks and asking for help from family members can help alleviate some of the stress, especially when it comes to cooking and organizing holiday events.

When it comes to gift-giving, reducing the number of presents and focusing on meaningful gifts can help alleviate financial strain and reduce household clutter. Parents can involve their children in selecting gifts for donation to teach the value of giving back.

Navigating family dynamics during the holidays can also be challenging, especially when dealing with difficult relatives. Setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and having an exit plan can help manage stressful situations and protect your mental well-being.

Looking ahead to January, planning phone-free family nights and scheduling self-care activities can provide much-needed relaxation after the holiday rush. Making time for yourself and prioritizing activities that bring joy can help maintain a sense of calm and brightness during the busy holiday season.