Presents and visitors and late nights...Oh My!!

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is enough to make any parent feel frayed and frazzled, but what does it do to our little ones?

It doesn't take an expensive scientific study to know that young children show signs of stress during the holiday season (though they are out there).  The proof can be found at your local mall, restaurant or come on over to my house!

Skipped naps. Visits from cousins and great-aunt so-in-so. Late meals. Snacks on the road. Lights and music at every turn.  It can be a recipe for disaster.  So what is a parent to do?  First, let's take a look at some common signs of overstimulation, or stress, in young children.

Signs of overstimulation with babies may include:

• changes in skin color (more pale or more red)
• erratic or faster breathing (may look like panting)
• turning head away
• yawning or going to sleep
• hiccups
• flailing arms and legs, jerky movements
• crying

Signs of overstimulation with toddlers may include:

• not obeying as well as usual
• tantrum/meltdown
• crying
• sensitivity or hyper-sensitive
• difficulty going to sleep
• shortened sleep periods

Sleep and routine can be key to resolving overstimulation with young children.  It is important to remember that sleep loss is cumulative. Two or three late nights might translate to a pretty sleep deprived kiddo.  Whenever possible stick to as much of your normal routine as you can.  If you suspect sleep deprivation may be the culprit, settle down for an early nap and bedtime for a couple days to catch-up.  Interested in how much sleep your child needs? Consult this article on sleep: http://www.drpaul.com/behaviour/sleep.html

Watch for early warning signs.  If you see signs of overstimulation allow some time for a break.  The instinct may be to hurry up and rush though the task/outing before the child melts down but a better choice might be to take a 20 minute break and address the "Big Five": Is your child hungry, tired, uncomfortable, soiled, or in need of attention?

Be prepared.  If you will be out and about frequently during the holidays how about stocking up your car?  Extra blankets, diapers, outfit changes, snacks, water, and toys and books for distraction stored in a tote in your trunk may save the day more than once!

Adjust your expectations.  We can all fall under the pressure of having the "perfect holiday".  Perfect just isn't attainable and by expecting it you will only cause yourself more stress and frustration.  Before heading out to Grandma's or hosting a holiday dinner take a minute to set some realistic goals and ask for help when needed!

Relax.  What your children and family truly want for the holidays is your time and attention.  If you have to, schedule time for ...nothing at all and just be together.

Happy Holidays!!
-Amanda