Hey {{first_name}}
Last week we talked about holiday chaos. The noise, excitement, travel, visitors, sugar highs, and constant changes in routine that make this time of year really hard for kids.
This week, I want to give you 3 concrete strategies to help things go more smoothly. Because while we can’t prevent every meltdown, we can make this season feel calmer, safer, and more predictable for our kids.
✨ 1. Reduce demands + increase predictability
Kids are already running on low batteries this time of year. That means your best tool is lowering demands and expectations.
Try:
Preparing them ahead of time with a simple “here’s what today looks like” in a visual format or just talking it through.
Shortening events, visits, or transitions
Offering micro-choices (“do you want to walk or be carried to the car?”)
Keeping as many familiar routines as possible: same bedtime flow, same morning rhythm
Some quiet time or downtime scheduled daily. I recommend dimming the lights, co-creating a cozy corner with some sensory tools and their favorite toys or books. You can use a timer so they know how long they’re expected to stay and call it something more fun rather than “quiet time”. I like calling it “recharge time” and giving the analogy of recharging a phone/tablet.
When kids know what’s coming and feel like they have some control, their nervous system stays more regulated.
✨ 2. Use targeted sensory routines
(This is Where My Sensory Guide Helps So Much)
A lot of holiday overwhelm comes from sensory overload: noise, crowds, social demands, lights, smells, constant transitions.
One of the best things you can do is build 2–3 simple regulation routines for the hardest moments (before leaving the house, after a big event, before bedtime).
💛 This is exactly what the Sensory Decoder Kit helps you create.
You take the quiz → learn your child’s sensory needs → choose activities that make sense for their nervous system → and build a calming or regulating routine that actually works.
If you want activities specifically matched to your child’s sensory profile, don’t miss my Sensory Decoder Kit.
✨ 3. Stay connected during and after big moments
Meltdowns happen when a child loses their sense of safety and connection especially when routines are off.
Try to build in tiny pockets of connection and regulation throughout the day as a proactive measure:
30 seconds of snuggles before leaving the house
Whispering in their ear during busy events (“you’re doing great, I’m right here”)
Slow breaths together in the car before going inside
A simple reset phrase: “let’s take a quick break and come back when our bodies feel ready”
Even short bursts of connection can lower the intensity of holiday overstimulation.
🍽️ Bonus: Picky Eating Tip of the Week: Stick to the safe foods!
The holidays are not the time to introduce new foods.
Routines are unpredictable, schedules are off, kids are tired, and environments are overwhelming, their bodies are already working overtime.
Here’s what to do instead:
Always pack your child’s safe foods when visiting family or attending events
Keep meals pressure-free (“you don’t have to try anything — I’ve got your favorites here”)
Offer new foods visually on the table, no expectations
Protect their appetite by avoiding long gaps between meals/snacks. This is key for overall regulation!
In January, when life settles down again, we can gently revisit food exploration.
If you want support creating the sensory routines that make these weeks easier, the Sensory Decoder Kit is the perfect place to start.
✨ Take the quiz
✨ Understand your child
✨ Pick the right activities
✨ Build regulation routines that actually work
You’re doing an amazing job navigating a really hard season 💛
Effie
