Six Ways to Have a Healthy, Happy Holiday with Your Child

Six Ways to Have a Healthy, Happy Holiday 

with Your Child!

1)      Include your child in the planning and preparations. Kids are creative and can give great ideas for Holiday get-togethers. Let your child pick out some fun games to play or have them help with the baking. You will be making memories before the party even begins!

2)     Be physically active. Burn some calories after loading up on the sweets. Teach your child to maintain a healthy lifestyle by participating in fun activities. Dance to your favorite holiday tunes, take a brisk walk around the block, or try a new sport.

3)      Make sure to have one-to-one time with your child. Many of us feel overwhelmed with the amount of time we are required to spend with our friends and extended family during the Holiday Season. Your child may feel the same. Squeeze in time to be together--just the kids and parents. Start a tradition just for you. 

4)      View the holidays through the eyes of your child. Remember what the Holiday Season felt like when you were little? Try to rekindle those feelings. Be giddy over opening a gift, in awe of the beautiful lights, and enjoy the delicious goodies. Share in the excitement of the holidays with your child.

5)      Give yourself a break. The Holidays are often stressful. A range of thoughts and emotions-- such as family feuds, remembering loved ones who have passed, and anxiety about visitors-- can make this a negative time of year. Please give yourself a break.

6)      Respect your child’s boundaries. Some families expect children to show physical signs of affection to their family members-- like hugs, kisses, or sitting on an adult's lap. Remember that your child has the right to chose when and how they are touched. Respect your child's right to make this choice.