Everyone is prone to stress and depression during the holiday season. For advice on how you can get a better handle on things, click here for an article for Psychology Today.

  

As always, the Parent Information Network is here for you during the holidays and all through the new year. We can be reached at 508-947-8779 or [email protected].

  

SPED Child and Teen, a website that focuses on news and events for special needs children in Massachusetts, wants to ensure that all children are able to enjoy the holiday season. Click here for a list of inclusive and sensory-friendly holiday events happening in Massachusetts.

PIN parents were asked "how do you celebrate the holidays?" and here is what they had to say:

"All my kids get a tin of popcorn and new jammies. On Christmas night we watch a movie and eat popcorn."

"We make a countdown chain out of red and green construction paper."

"At the Hanukkah party, we have Sufganiyots. They are like little jelly donuts. Here is a recipe to share."

"Everyone draws a name from a hat and you make a handmade gift for that person."

"Take a long ribbon and glue 24 Hersey Kisses on it and tie a bell to the end. Use it like an advent calendar."

Holidays can be a stressful time for kids and parents. Something that can be used at home, at a relatives house, or at school for a child that is struggling to regulate himself is a "Safe Brain Break Space".  Your child can enjoy downtime when they feel over-stimulated. 

Establish a brain break space and be sure that the other children and guests know that this space is off-limits. Empower your special needs child to recognize when he or she needs to go to their brain break space. Practice, practice, practice ahead of time to recognize when mood is escalating. 

Empower children by packing a relaxation bag they can go to if they are feeling anxious. Bring earphones and their special relaxation music or stories. Play dough, stress ball, music, video game, even a camera can help children relax and give them a focus if they have social anxiety. Personalize to meet the needs of your child. Hopefully, with a little planning, everyone has an enjoyable holiday!

We all know that kids do better during the holidays when they stick with their routine, but most of us tend to forget this when our kids get older.

Here are some ideas to help you enjoy the holidays with your teens and young adults:

1. Keep routines as normal and predictable as possible. Keep structure in the day, even when they are off from school or work. Too much free time can increase anxiety, while over scheduling can do the same. You need to find a balance that works for your family.

2. Set realistic expectations. A depressed teen is not all of a sudden going to feel happy during the holidays, and anxiety is a very real thing that sometimes gets worse during this season. Keep this in mind when making plans.

3.  Although it can be difficult, try focus on the positives. See the best in your teens and offer praise for even little things that they do. A hug to say "great job" can go a long way!

4. Ask young adults for input when planning holiday activities. They will be more apt to participate if you discuss it with them and listen their ideas. You may be surprised at what holiday traditions are important to them.

5. Laugh and have fun, especially when things get stressful!

6. Keep up with therapy or other appointments. Have a back up plan in case of emergencies.

7. Take a minute to breathe and relax!!

This month's topic is "Tips For Fathers During the Holiday Season." Click here to view the flyer for this unique support group.