Preparing Kids for the Holidays in COVID-19
Like everything else in 2020, holidays are different this year due to COVID-19.
With holidays approaching, families are struggling to decide how to manage traditional holiday gatherings due to COVID-19 surges.
Here are some tips on how to manage kids disappointment with different holiday plans this year:
Allow difficult emotions. Kids (and parents) are likely going to be disappointed and upset about holiday plans this year. It’s important to not punish kids for experiencing these difficult emotions. Instead, normalize and validate these emotions (“It’s frustrating the holidays are different this year”).
Increase quality time. Add in a little extra quality time with your immediate household to buffer against the disappointments of not seeing other family members.
Create new holiday traditions. Find a new recipe, write extended family members cards, watch holiday movies. Ask kids for their input on what they would like to do for the holidays this year. Having choices and autonomy are helpful for kids.
Look at the big picture. In the moment, not celebrating a holiday as expected can feel like the worst thing in the world. During these times, think about the importance of celebrating safely and use it as a way to talk to your children about the pandemic.
Manage your emotions. Parents may also feel challenging emotions during these times and increased anxiety and stress about not seeing your parents and siblings. If you maintain a calm demeanor while still acknowledging your emotions, your kids will do the same.