“Keeping It Real with Holiday Emotions: Tips for Parents”
Let’s be real—holidays aren’t always jingle bells and hot cocoa vibes. For some of us, it’s a mix of joy, stress, and trying to keep the kids from losing it. Whether it’s sibling drama, the stress of gift-giving, or just the chaos of packed schedules, emotions run high this time of year.
This first post in our three-part series is all about helping your family stay grounded and emotionally balanced through it all.
1. Keep It 100 About Emotions
Kids feel everything—sometimes all at once. Jealousy, frustration, excitement, stress—it’s a lot for their little minds to handle. Instead of brushing off their feelings, try this: Let them know it’s okay to feel what they feel. For example, “I see why you’re upset. It’s okay to feel that way.”
💡 Activity: Use the Emotional Power Wheel from the Holiday Harmony eBook to help your kids figure out what they’re feeling. Naming those emotions is the first step to controlling them.
2. Slow It Down
The holiday rush can make everybody (yes, even us parents) a little extra. Take a minute to pause and breathe. Teaching your kids how to hit the pause button helps them chill, even when things get chaotic.
💡 Pro Tip: If your kids are really amped up, my book Power of Words has the “Butterfly Tamer” activity—a quick trick to help kids calm their nerves and refocus. (It’s also a great hack for parents who need a moment!)
3. Spread That Holiday Love
Nothing flips a bad mood faster than showing some love. Teach your kids to drop some kind words on the people around them. Whether it’s a quick “thanks for cooking dinner” or a note to Grandma, those little moments go a long way.
💡 Challenge: Have your kids come up with two nice things to say to someone today. If they need help, check out the activities in the Holiday Harmony eBook for inspiration.
🎁 Your Free Gift: Holiday Harmony
Get the Holiday Harmony eBook—it’s FREE! The story follows Maya and Jasmine as they navigate jealousy and learn to connect during the holidays. Plus, you’ll find interactive activities like the Emotional Power Wheel to help your family turn tricky feelings into bonding moments.
👉 Download Holiday Harmony here click the shop button at the top for your free download !
And if you want more tools for emotional growth, grab my book Power of Words—it’s packed with activities like the “Butterfly Tamer” to keep your family thriving year-round.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll share simple holiday traditions that’ll bring your family closer than ever. Until then, remember this: Feelings aren’t the enemy—they’re just messages from the heart. Listen to them, and watch how your family grows.
Much love, Lily and Big Brain Kids!
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