The holiday season is magical, memorable, and full of excitement for young children. But it can also bring big changes to their schedules. From later bedtimes and travel plans to special events and extra sweets, there are so many unforgettable moments to add joy to the holidays. Yet these holiday-time situations can also be overwhelming for kids who thrive on predictability. That’s why maintaining routines during the holidays is so important. Simple, consistent daily rhythms help children feel secure, regulated, and ready to enjoy the season’s festivities.
By focusing on maintaining the following routines, you can ensure your kids can stay happy and healthy this holiday season.
Maintain a Consistent Bedtime Ritual
The holidays often come with later nights. But sticking as closely as possible to a regular bedtime helps children stay emotionally balanced, even when under a bit more stress – such as the holidays. Bath time, story time, and a predictable lights-out routine can help kids wind down, even after an exciting day of holiday activities. A steadier sleep schedule makes children more adaptable and better able to manage overstimulation.
Create a Morning Routine That Grounds the Day
A peaceful, predictable morning that is organized and structured sets the tone for the entire day. Even if the day includes traveling or special events, keeping morning rituals – such as getting dressed in the same order, eating a familiar breakfast, or having a few quiet minutes with a book – can reduce stress and provide a sense of stability. These routines during the holidays can go a long way toward keeping young kids happy and balanced.
Build in Snack and Mealtime Predictability
Holiday meals don’t always happen at the usual time, which can lead to crankiness or big emotions. Try keeping snacks and hydration consistent throughout the day to help kids control impulses and self-regulate through the day. When possible, anchor the day with at least one familiar mealtime routine, such as sitting in the same spot, using familiar dishes, or offering a well-loved favorite food. Be sure to include hand washing and clean up as part of the routine.
Incorporate Movement and Playtime Routines
Children need opportunities to move their bodies, especially during busy holiday gatherings. And playtime is crucial for keeping kids growing and developing. Be sure to maintain a daily playtime routine, whether it’s outdoor play, a quick dance break, or a simple walk around the block. Physical activity helps kids release energy and regulates their emotions during a stimulating season.
Use Quiet-Time Breaks to Help Kids Reset
Even the happiest celebrations can become overwhelming for young children. Fortunately, a little bit of quiet time is one of the best routines during the holidays for helping kids reset. Build predictable quiet time breaks into each day. Consider setting up a cozy reading nook, providing a short rest or nap time, or create a space for quiet coloring time. These pauses help children regulate and prevent sensory overload, making holiday events more enjoyable for everyone.
Prepare Kids for Schedule Changes in Advance
You may have put in the best efforts to avoid changes to your child’s schedule. But often, change is inevitable. But you can help lessen the stress. If you know a sleep schedule may change, start slowing shifting toward the new schedule. In addition, talking through the day’s activities helps children feel confident and prepared. Whether you’re heading to a family gathering or starting a busy day of errands, explaining the plan helps your child understand what to expect. A simple verbal outline, or even a picture schedule, gives them the structure they need to navigate exciting new experiences.
Keep a Tradition-Based Routine Kids Can Count On
Holiday traditions, big or small, create joyful memories and a sense of belonging. Build simple routines during the holidays that they’ll remember, such as decorating cookies every Saturday, reading a special book each night, or lighting a candle before dinner. These traditions provide grounding and help children feel connected during a season full of change.
How PALS Helps Children Thrive Through Stability and Routine
At PALS Praise & Leadership Schools, we understand how essential routines are to a child’s growth. That’s why we structure our classrooms around consistent rhythms that build confidence, support emotional well-being, and strengthen learning. Through these routines, children gain the character, critical thinking skills, and responsibility they need to succeed. We designed a curriculum that helps kids flourish by building their self-esteem, teaching responsibility, and fostering communication. And we teach them values that will guide them well into adulthood.
Let us introduce you to PALS and show you the difference our education can make. We offer two locations in Peoria: North Peoria at 2327 W. Willow Knolls Rd., and downtown at 700 NE Greenleaf.
Call us at 309-691-4326 or 309-674-2938 to schedule a tour. Let us show you how we can help your child thrive well into adulthood.
