Health & Wellbeing @ NLPS

Self-Care During the End of Year: Supporting Yourself and Your Children

As the festive season approaches, the excitement, joy, and chaos of the “silly season” can bring a mix of emotions for families. While it’s a time of celebration, it can also become overwhelming—especially for children, who often pick up on the hustle and bustle around them. 

Here’s why self-care and mindfulness matter this season: 

Children Mirror Our Stress: 

Children are incredibly perceptive. If we’re feeling stressed or stretched thin, they may reflect these emotions through heightened behaviours, such as tantrums, defiance, or shutting down. By taking care of ourselves, we create a calmer environment where children feel safe and secure. 

Routine Changes Can Be Unsettling: 

Holidays often mean changes in schedules, late nights, or travelling. While these shifts are part of the fun, they can be unsettling for children who thrive on predictability. Helping them navigate these changes with patience and understanding is key. 

Be Mindful of Overstimulation: 

Bright lights, loud gatherings, and an abundance of new experiences can be exciting—but also overwhelming. Watch for signs of overstimulation in your child, such as irritability, withdrawal, or difficulty settling down, and take breaks when needed. 

Practical Tips for the End of Year: 

• Take Time for Yourself: Even amidst the busyness, prioritise moments for self-care. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a walk, or deep breathing, nurturing yourself helps you stay calm and centered.
• Keep a Flexible Routine: Maintain a balance between festive activities and your usual schedule. Sticking to familiar mealtimes and bedtimes as much as possible can provide stability for children.
• Set Realistic Expectations: The holidays don’t need to be perfect. Focus on meaningful moments rather than trying to do it all. Simplify plans if needed and let go of unnecessary stress.
• Create Calm Zones: Designate a quiet space in your home or at gatherings where children (and adults!) can retreat if things get too overwhelming. Bring along comfort items like a favourite toy.
• Practise Gratitude Together: Engage in activities that emphasise gratitude, such as writing thank-you notes or reflecting on things you’re thankful for. This helps shift focus away from materialism and towards meaningful connections.
• Model Healthy Coping Strategies: Show your children how to manage stress constructively. Talk about feelings, and share techniques like taking deep breaths, stretching, or finding a quiet moment.
• Celebrate Simple Joys: Sometimes, the smallest traditions create the most lasting memories. Baking cookies, reading stories, or taking a walk to see festive lights can be just as special as big events.

December is a wonderful time to create cherished memories, but it’s also a time to be gentle with yourself and your children. By approaching the season with mindfulness and care, you can ensure it's joyful and meaningful for the whole family.

Samantha Meddis

Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader