How to Help Children Manage Holiday Stress

Although a break from school and the upcoming holiday season can bring much excitement, it can also trigger significant stress in families. According to the American Psychological Association's website, more than eight out of 10 Americans report feelings of stress during this season.  In that same 2008 poll, households with children were even more likely to experience stress.  Parents can feel pressure to purchase gifts, decorate houses, travel to visit family, and keep with holiday traditions.  This pressure can lead to financial and emotional strain.  As we all know, children are extremely perceptive at reading our emotions which in turn can impact their feelings and behaviors.  This list of recommendations from Duke Children's Network provides a realistic list of recommendations for helping make the holiday season enjoyable and stressfree.

http://www.dukechildrens.org/about_us/newsroom/holiday_stress

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