With the holiday season in full swing, keeping a stress-free household can be challenging - especially with kids on vacation.
So how do you keep the family festivities festive over the holiday season when it comes to your family?
Experts say, managing potentially stressful situations ahead of time, like: dinner parties, present exchanges, visitors, and traveling can be done by clearly outlining expectations and reality.
Dr. Amy Beth Taublieb, a NYS Licensed Psychologist says, when it comes to the holiday season, the time to start troubleshooting with your kids isn't the week or month before, it's instilling lessons all year long.
"The important thing to remember is that the holidays really are about giving. But for kids, understanding that sentiment is something that has to be instilled at a young age, it needs to be a part of their everyday learning," she expressed.
Another thing to remember, kids will be kids.
"Don't allow them to dictate the tone of any occasion - be it the holidays or just any given normal day."
When it comes to the holiday season kids tend to have more time off which means, they are likely looking for more attention. Tantrums and bad behaviors can indicate that your kids are just looking for a bit more attention, something to be aware of.
Some helpful tools for parents to keep in mind are: role playing, open dialogue, collaboration, leading by example, and teaching kids to give back.
"By getting your kids involved in the act of giving, they remember it's not all about what's at the toy store, it's about the importance of giving and love. Role play different scenarios with them, they'll learn the difference between right and wrong," she expressed.
For more on Dr. Amy Beth Taublieb and her services, visit her website.
