By Shannon at the Southern Schoolhouse
Holiday emotions are REAL. Excitement, overwhelm, tiredness, and everything in between. When schedules get busy, kids often act out because they don’t yet know how to handle those big feelings. Here are simple ways families (and teachers) can help children stay calm, grounded, and supported through the busiest times of the year.
1. Expect Big Feelings: Don’t Be Surprised by Them
Routine changes + sugar + special events = emotional overflow.
Behavior isn’t “bad.” It’s communication.
Kids need reassurance, not lectures.
2. Keep Routines As Predictable As Possible
Even if plans are busy, anchor the day with:
- morning routine
- after-school snack time
- simple nighttime routine
Predictability helps regulate emotions.
3. Use “Name It to Tame It”
Help kids identify what they feel:
- “You look disappointed.”
- “I see you’re excited and having trouble slowing down.”
- “It’s okay to feel frustrated.”
Naming feelings lowers intensity and teaches emotional vocabulary.
4. Build in Quiet Time (Even 10 Minutes Helps)
December can be noisy and overstimulating.
Offer daily downtime:
- puzzles
- coloring
- LEGOs
- reading
- a quiet corner
Kids need sensory breaks to reset.
5. Watch the Basics: Food, Sleep, and Hydration
Half of the meltdowns in December come from being hungry, tired, or thirsty, not from “misbehavior.”
A healthy snack and some water fix more than we admit.
6. Prepare Kids for Surprises
Schedule changes? Visitors? Events at school?
Give a simple heads-up earlier in the day:
“Tonight we have a concert. After that we will come home, get cozy, and do our bedtime routine.”
Predictability lowers anxiety.
7. Model Calm
Kids borrow our nervous systems.
If we take a breath, speak softly, or move slowly, they follow.
8. Offer Extra Connection
A few extra minutes of snuggle time or a short walk after school can do wonders.
Kids crave connection when routines get messy.
Closing Thought
December is joyful but overwhelming for many children. With simple nighttime routines and warm emotional support, families and teachers can help kids feel grounded, calm, and ready for all the excitement the season brings.
