The holidays are a time for family, fun, and cheer. But for parents of young children, they can also be a time of stress and meltdowns. Young kids get tired easily and don’t always handle changes in their routines well.

If you’re struggling to keep your toddler calm during the holidays, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Take a look at these tips to help avoid toddler meltdowns during the holidays.

Keep Routines as Normal as Possible

One important way to avoid holiday chaos is to try to stick to your child’s normal routine as much as you can. That means maintaining regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and nap times as much as possible.

If your family is traveling, pack your child’s favorite toys and snacks to help them feel comfortable in new surroundings. And don’t forget to schedule some downtime each day for your little one to unwind and recharge.

Take Your Toddler for a Drive

If you have a toddler who’s acting up during holiday festivities or having trouble falling asleep, consider taking them for a drive.

It might sound counterintuitive, but getting some fresh air and moving around can actually help to calm them down. The rhythmic motion of the car can also be soothing, making it easier for them to fall asleep.

Just make sure everything is safe and secure — be sure to buckle them into their car seat correctly, and ensure that your car insurance is up-to-date. Not sure if you have the right coverage or need insurance? Calling an independent insurance agent, like the folks at Freeway Car Insurance, can help you find an affordable option that fits your budget. Since you are busy with a toddler, they can research insurance quotes for you.

Manage the Level of New Activities

The holidays are a special time of year for families, and parents want their children to experience all the magic the season has to offer. However, it’s important to remember that young children can only handle so much change and excitement before they become overwhelmed.

To avoid holiday meltdowns, take a cue from your child’s daily routine. If they’re used to having one big activity per day, stick to that schedule during the holidays. Add in a few new traditions, but keep them at a level your child can handle.

You might also try introducing one new activity per day, such as cookie-baking or sledding. If your child seems to be enjoying the holiday festivities and taking it well, then you can add more activities. However, if your child becomes overwhelmed or agitated, take a break and try something else.

By keeping things familiar and introducing new experiences gradually, you can help your child enjoy the holidays while avoiding overwhelm.

Enjoy Your Toddler This Holiday Season

While toddlers might be unpredictable and never seem to sit still, they can also remind us of the wonder of the holidays. Seeing everything through their eyes is a great reminder to slow down and take in the holiday magic ourselves.

This season, instead of getting frazzled by your toddler’s antics, try to remember what it feels like to experience something fun and new. Enjoy your toddler this holiday season!