Preparing for the Holidays: Parenting and
Socializing Tips
To get the best out of your children at
parties and family gatherings this holiday season think about trying the following:
1. Discuss in advance where you will be going and who will be there. Children often do best when they are prepared
for what they will encounter.
2. Provide a check-list of what your child
needs to do to prepare for the event (so they can get themselves ready) including what time they should start getting dressed
and what time you want to leave your home. Your child will feel proud when he/she comes to you with a completed check list.
3. Discuss expectations and anything you can foresee coming up. If no other
children will be present, discuss what you can bring to keep him/her occupied. If there will be many children present and
you are worried about over stimulation, discuss what your child can do to keep him/herself calm or out of fights.
4. Ask your child if he/she has any concerns about the day/evening. When getting together with
other families sometimes there may be social issues that can be avoided by talking about them in advance. Make sure your child's
expectations are realistic.
5. Discuss how you would like your child to
greet adults and/or engage in table manners.
Last, remember to have realistic
expectations that are in line with your child's current ability to socialize and maintain impulse control. Avoid the urge
to discipline in public. If a problem arises, find a private place to talk quietly with your child. Ask your child questions
to find out what happened and problem solve instead of discipline if possible.
