Spreading positive childhood experiences during the holidays
The holiday season is here with its many expectations, planned gatherings, and searches for those perfect gifts. For many of us, this joyful season can also bring moments of stress that make it feel difficult to focus on the positive. This is why we created a holiday-inspired list of ways to practice positive childhood experiences (PCEs). No matter what you celebrate, believe, or practice during the Holiday season, you can create PCEs with the children around you!
Ways to practice PCEs with the children around you
The tips below have been modified from our 10 ways to promote positive childhood experiences during difficult times resource to reflect how we can practice PCEs during the holiday season.
- Bond with your family and friends. Reconnect with loved ones wherever they live. Even a quick check-in call can help us stay connected. Bond over shared activities together, like baking or setting up decorations.
- Talk with your children. Ask them about their favorite holiday tradition and memories from last year. Create new traditions based on what they share.
- Reach out for support. This time of year can be difficult. It is ok to ask for help. Seek out supportive people and resources in your community. Be an example for the children: you are showing that everyone needs help sometimes.
- Support those around you. You do not need a special occasion to reach out to family and friends. Let them know that you are there for them to spend time with, in person, on the phone, or over a video call.
- Connect with people over simple activities. Balance big traditions and activities with low-pressure and everyday activities like reading books together or hosting a movie night.
- Learn or try something new as a family. Seek out a new activity away from the house or learn and try traditions from another culture. Spice up the Holiday season with something new.
- Make time for self-regulation and self-care. Take a break from everyone around you and dedicate some personal time. Take care of your own needs and wants during the Holiday season.
- Be silly. As the saying goes, “laughter is the best medicine.” Try a holiday movie marathon, start a dance party, or start a new holiday tradition.
- Engage with your community. What’s happening in your neighborhood? Find local tree lightings, holiday parades, or volunteer opportunities at local shelters for those in need. Show the children around you that they belong in a community.
- Prioritize positive moments. Be intentional and present with the people around you this holiday season. Enjoy the small and big moments. Create PCEs that the children around you will remember for years to come.
