Preparing for a Calm Holiday Season with Preschoolers

The holiday season is filled with joy, laughter, and memory-making—but it can also bring a lot of hustle and bustle. For preschoolers, the excitement of decorations, parties, and gifts can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news? With a little preparation and mindfulness, families can create a holiday season that feels peaceful, connected, and joyful.

Here are a few mindful strategies to keep the holidays calm for you and your preschooler:

1. Create a Simple Holiday Routine

Preschoolers thrive on predictability. While schedules might change during the holidays, having a consistent routine can help your little one feel safe and grounded.

• Example: Keep bedtime rituals the same, even if bedtime is a little later—read a favorite story, sing a lullaby, or practice a calming breath exercise.

2. Use Mindful Breathing to Reset

When holiday activities get too busy, mindful breathing can help preschoolers (and adults!) calm down.

• Example: Try “Snowflake Breaths.” Have your child imagine a snowflake floating down as they slowly breathe in, then watch it melt as they exhale. We have a FREE guide in our store!

3. Build Quiet Moments into the Day

Balance the energy of the season with intentional quiet time.

• Example: Set aside 10–15 minutes for a cozy story, coloring session, or listening to a guided meditation together. This short pause can reset emotions before the next activity.

4. Practice Gratitude Together

Gratitude helps shift focus from holiday “wants” to holiday “wonders.” Preschoolers can learn this in simple, playful ways.

• Example: Create a paper gratitude chain by adding one strip each day with something your child is thankful for. By the end of the season, you’ll have a beautiful reminder of holiday blessings.

5. Keep Expectations Realistic

Remember—holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Focus on creating moments of connection rather than doing everything.

• Example: If baking cookies feels stressful, invite your preschooler to decorate pre-made cookies instead. It’s the memory of laughter and sprinkles that counts most.

Final Thoughts

The holidays can be magical without the overwhelm. By weaving in mindful breathing, gratitude, and quiet moments, you’ll help your preschooler feel grounded and secure. And along the way, you may just discover that these calming strategies help the whole family soak up the joy of the season.

✨ Wishing you a calm, joyful, and heartwarming holiday season!