How do you ensure the first result will happen and not the second?
Do
1.Above all else, make sure your child is getting enough sleep. If they are still an infant and napping twice a day, try to schedule your activities so they can remain well rested. The same approach is successful with a child who is used to one nap a day. Keeping them up all day and then expecting them to go to bed earlier and make up for the loss of sleep rarely works.
2.Keep high sugar foods to a minimum! Contrary to some experts, sugar does have a negative impact on their behavior and their eating habits.
3.Always inform them before and activity exactly what is going to happen and what you expect of them. Share the names of people they may be meeting for the first time. Provide them with some information about them so they will already have a connection.
4.Space out your social schedule so they get a break inbetween.
5.Keep all plans age appropriate. It is hard for a child to spend more than an hour or so in an adult environment.
6.Plan as much time as possible in child friendly activities. They have already been excited about the holidays since Halloween, so make sure some of their time is low key and calm.
Do Not
1.Over plan activities so they feel they are on a treadmill. This may result in unacceptable behavior.
2.Spend too much time in the adult world.
3.Take them into busy shopping environments unless it is absolutely necessary. Always have a conversation about whether they can make a purchase. Be firm and calm about it.
4.Allow them to break any existing rules because this is holiday time, you will be opening a door to problems and also losing credibility.
5.Expect too much of yourself! You need rest too!
6.Hesitate to turn down an invitation when everyone is already tired.
With good planning and communication, holiday time can be an adventure with wonderful memories!
We will be back in the New Year!
Have a great holiday time!
Good Luck!
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