From The Parent Cue
Was yesterday merry, but today, not so much? You know one of the biggest culprits of your kid’s meltdowns? A disrupted routine.
Do you know what the holidays are? A big ol’ (albeit festive) disruption to your family’s routine.
If you’ve been facing some big feelings (read: “epic meltdowns”) at home lately, you’re not alone: you’re likely one of many families across the world wondering where all the chill Christmas vibes went. Your once-amenable Whoville Who is now a certified Grinch, leaving slammed doors and epically-proportioned screaming matches in their wake. So much for a silent night, huh?
If you’re experiencing some post-holiday emotional whiplash from your kid, all hope is not lost. To hopefully get things back to where they used to be, here’s what you’re going to do:
You’re going to let your kids feel their feelings.
Transitions are hard, and your kid’s grumpy behavior communicates they’re having a difficult time dealing. Let them feel the range of their emotions without judgment, but make sure they know what’s respectful and acceptable in terms of their words and actions.
You’re going to let your kid borrow your calm.
Your kid is pretty dysregulated right now, and the last thing they need is for you to join them in their current state. Lend them your patient, calm presence and respond to the heart of what they’re trying to communicate.
Get outside.
Nothing regulates a mood better than spending time in nature. Maybe it’s time for a hike or a walk around the neighborhood to get your body moving and bring back some equilibrium.
Have some fun.
Nothing communicates connection like enjoying time together. Declare tonight as family game night or watch a show or movie together to sprinkle in some fun as you regain your pre-holiday footing.
Ask your kid what they need.
Tell your kid you’ve observed they’re having a hard time. Ask them how they’re feeling and what you can do to help. Be prepared to act (or in some cases, not act) on your kid’s feedback, whether it’s spending more quality time together or being a silent yet supportive presence.
If you think about it, your family has been keeping an abnormal pace for a few months now, so there’s bound to be a period of transition. The very best everyone can do is be patient and remember that finding your footing again takes time, so make sure you factor in lots of grace as you learn to resume your regular routines.
Do you know what the holidays are? A big ol’ (albeit festive) disruption to your family’s routine.
If you’ve been facing some big feelings (read: “epic meltdowns”) at home lately, you’re not alone: you’re likely one of many families across the world wondering where all the chill Christmas vibes went. Your once-amenable Whoville Who is now a certified Grinch, leaving slammed doors and epically-proportioned screaming matches in their wake. So much for a silent night, huh?
If you’re experiencing some post-holiday emotional whiplash from your kid, all hope is not lost. To hopefully get things back to where they used to be, here’s what you’re going to do:
You’re going to let your kids feel their feelings.
Transitions are hard, and your kid’s grumpy behavior communicates they’re having a difficult time dealing. Let them feel the range of their emotions without judgment, but make sure they know what’s respectful and acceptable in terms of their words and actions.
You’re going to let your kid borrow your calm.
Your kid is pretty dysregulated right now, and the last thing they need is for you to join them in their current state. Lend them your patient, calm presence and respond to the heart of what they’re trying to communicate.
Get outside.
Nothing regulates a mood better than spending time in nature. Maybe it’s time for a hike or a walk around the neighborhood to get your body moving and bring back some equilibrium.
Have some fun.
Nothing communicates connection like enjoying time together. Declare tonight as family game night or watch a show or movie together to sprinkle in some fun as you regain your pre-holiday footing.
Ask your kid what they need.
Tell your kid you’ve observed they’re having a hard time. Ask them how they’re feeling and what you can do to help. Be prepared to act (or in some cases, not act) on your kid’s feedback, whether it’s spending more quality time together or being a silent yet supportive presence.
If you think about it, your family has been keeping an abnormal pace for a few months now, so there’s bound to be a period of transition. The very best everyone can do is be patient and remember that finding your footing again takes time, so make sure you factor in lots of grace as you learn to resume your regular routines.