As the holidays approach, you can catch my deer-in-headlights face when thinking about how to maneuver through the next few months with little ones. However, that doesn’t last long because I know that great preparation will see us through to the New Year.
Keep in mind these three little snippets of advice for maintaining the magic with your toddler so that your holidays can be delightful! Although some of these things may seem like “well, duh” for us with small children, it’s less obvious for the family and friends involved in our holiday plans.
First, know that there are just going to be some days where you won’t be able to stick to your toddlers eat/sleep/potty schedule and that’s ok. A few days off won’t ruin anything as long as you get back into the swing of things when you can. Going out? Santa photos? Family dinner? Christmas tree light up? Holiday pageants? Take your toddler’s favorite snacks, blankie, binky(?), toy, book, etc. Don’t load up but have some at the ready to make transitions a little easier and always explain expectations before going anywhere.
Secondly, if you are off to visit family, it wouldn’t hurt to speak with relatives about how your family plans to adjust your regular routine with your toddler. Remind them to lower expectations as far as how a toddler will do during such a busy time and ask for support and back up when needed. You’ll all have a better idea of what you’re getting into and they can be a little more prepared to accommodate everyone.
Lastly, know that the chances of a meltdown are higher than usual. Anticipate it. The holidays can be overwhelming for us as adults, Just imagine how the nuggets are going to do! There will be routine disruption and unfamiliar people. Doing your best to prepare may still result in some not-so-fun times but we are the adults so we have the ability to control ourselves much more than the little ones. Try to be patient and loving because the memories made will be priceless.
