Holding It Gently During the Holidays

The holidays often arrive with hope and warmth and also with noise, expectations, and full calendars. For families raising children with differences, this season can feel especially tender. There may be more transitions, louder spaces, unfamiliar routines, and less room to slow down.

If things feel harder right now, you are not doing anything wrong.

Holiday stress affects nervous systems, both children’s and adults’. When there is more stimulation and less predictability, regulation becomes more difficult. Behaviors may change. Emotions may come faster. This is not a failure. It is a sign that the system is working hard.

This season invites us to meet children where they are, not where we wish they could be.

Start with Self-Compassion

Parenting during the holidays can feel like trying to hold many things at once. Plans. Traditions. Emotions. Other people’s expectations. Your own.

Self-compassion matters. It allows you to soften toward yourself when things don’t go as planned. It reminds you that doing your best does not mean doing everything.

You are allowed to choose what feels supportive for your child and for yourself.

Honoring Differences

Children experience the holidays differently. What feels joyful to one child may feel overwhelming to another. Honoring differences means noticing what your child needs to feel safe and regulated, even if it looks different from what others expect.

That might mean:

• Shorter gatherings

• Quiet breaks

• Familiar routines and foods

• Extra movement or time outdoors

• Saying no to certain events

Meeting your child where they are builds trust and supports long-term resilience. Support is not a step backward. It is a foundation.

Less Pressure, More Presence

The holidays do not need to be perfect to be meaningful. Connection grows in small, steady moments: a shared walk, a favorite song, a quiet story, a deep breath together.

If a moment goes sideways, it’s okay. You can pause. You can reset. You can begin again.

A Gentle Reminder

You are allowed to slow down.
You are allowed to simplify.
You are allowed to adjust expectations.

Your child does not need a perfect holiday. They need you ~ present, compassionate, and willing to meet them exactly where they are.

And that is already more than enough. 🌿

Wishing you a holiday season that brings joy to you.

Lisa 🌈 🌲