The Power of Routine During the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement and disruption it brings can be both joyous and challenging for families, especially for children who thrive on structure. Maintaining routines during the holidays can be a game-changer in ensuring that children feel secure, grounded, and ready to handle new experiences. Research underscores the importance of keeping routines consistent to promote emotional well-being and behavioral stability, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the season.

A study from Pathways.org reveals that routines help children develop critical executive function skills, which include problem-solving, decision-making, and emotional regulation. These skills are essential, particularly during periods of change or heightened activity, such as holiday celebrations. Structured routines create a sense of predictability that allows children to anticipate what comes next, reducing anxiety and fostering confidence.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics via HealthyChildren.org, family routines provide more than just order to the day; they strengthen the family bond and promote a sense of security. During the holidays, keeping familiar routines can help children navigate overwhelming sensory experiences and social gatherings. The AAP notes that structured routines can improve children’s adaptability and emotional stability, even when daily life becomes more unpredictable.

The concept of behavioral momentum, a core strategy in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), provides a helpful framework for creating successful routines during the holidays. Developmental Review explains how starting with simple, familiar tasks helps children build confidence and transition to more complex or less preferred activities. This technique is particularly beneficial during the holidays or family gatherings, when the novelty and excitement can become overwhelming. Behavioral momentum encourages gradual engagement, fostering smoother transitions and cooperative behavior.

General Tips for Parents to Maintain Routines During the Holidays

1. Keep Key Routines Consistent: Preserve important daily rituals like wake-up times, meals, and bedtime, even when traveling or hosting family. These anchor points help children feel secure.
2. Plan Ahead for Changes: Prepare children for upcoming events by discussing what will happen, who will be there, and what they can expect. Visual schedules can be especially helpful.
3. Include Quiet Time: Balance the excitement of the holidays with moments for relaxation or solo activities, helping children recharge.
4. Use Behavioral Momentum: Start with small, easy tasks to build confidence before transitioning to more challenging or unfamiliar activities, such as joining a group meal or gift exchange.
5. Set Realistic Expectations: Remember that flexibility is key. A slightly modified routine can still provide structure without becoming rigid or stressful.