Giving Thanks for Toddlers

Surviving the Holidays – Part 1
Ah, surviving the holidays in Toddlerland. It’s just a short sprint towards Thanksgiving and then a continuous run through Chanukah, Christmas and New Year’s. Are you ready? Feeling thankful and experiencing joy and generosity are big components of the celebratory season, along with angst and stress that accompanies a cacophony of relatives, long distance travel, over-hyped expectations, and often an over abundance of food and gifts.
>>Read on about how to prepare.

The 3 “T”s: Timing, Traditions and Take it Slow

Surviving the Holidays – Part 2
Ready or not, the holiday season is upon us. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza, or in some other way, this is a busy and exciting time of year, and especially so for your toddler. From visiting grandparents to school parties, gifts and extra time with friends—there’s a lot of added stimulation in your child’s life. It’s easy to forget in the hustle and bustle what matters most to your toddler—security, routine and connection to loved ones. That’s it. Whether this means trimming a tree together or baking cookies, lighting candles or attending religious services, keep in mind that for your toddler, he or she simply craves connection to and time with close family. With this in mind, you can take the focus and pressure off having the most elaborate decorations, serving the tastiest meal or finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.
>>Learn the 3 “T”s: Timing, Traditions and Take it Slow

Giving Thanks for Toddlers

Ah, surviving the holidays in Toddlerland. It’s just a short sprint towards Thanksgiving and then a continuous run through Chanukah, Christmas and New Year’s. Are you ready? Feeling thankful and experiencing joy and generosity are big components of the celebratory season, along with angst and stress that accompanies a cacophony of relatives, long distance travel, over-hyped expectations, and often an over abundance of food and gifts.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the approaching holidays, imagine how your strong willed, easily impulsive, and often moody toddler will feel. Even more overwhelmed and stimulated! As someone who’s gone through it with three of my own, expect a heightened level of crankiness and more meltdowns next week. Take a calming sip of hot cider- holidays get easier as your children grow up. And in the meantime, there are many things you can do to make your holiday feast and festivities toddler-friendly.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY: Modify your expectations so they work for both you and your child. There is only so much you can reasonably accomplish, and there’s only so much you can reasonably expect from your little one.
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