Making Spirits Bright: Practical Tips for Enjoying the Holidays as a Family

The holidays are supposed to be exciting and restful, meaningful and fun, a time to recharge and spend quality time with friends and family. Sounds like a lot to ask, doesn’t it? No wonder for many of us, the fast-approaching holidays invoke feelings of both excitement and dread. If making it through the holidays can feel like running the gauntlet for us adults, just imagine what it might feel like for our still-developing, anxious, or easily frustrated children. Here are a few suggestions to help all kids—and parents—enjoy the holiday season.