Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts

Monday, March 25, 2024

California's Quirky Fairs & Festivals (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)


WHALEFEST MONTEREY
April 13-14, 2024 | Whalefest.org
World-renowned marine experts and a variety of local groups share whale facts, maps and opportunities to support our biggest neighbors. Enjoy music from 12 different artists/groups including the very appropriately named “Jonah and the Whalewatchers” and Nicholas Fettis and his “Orca”stra, visit a marine research vessel and more at this outdoor event. Admission is free.

JACKALOPE INDIE ARTS FAIR
Pasadena | April 27-28, 2024
Burbank | June 8-9 and December 7-8, 2024 | JackalopeArtFair.com
Explore items from more than 200 local artisans across a variety of disciplines while enjoying live music at this outdoor fair. Kids may particularly enjoy making customizable slime, getting glitter tattoos and unicorn braids, coloring a free postcard or getting a custom poem written about them. In Burbank, peruse goods from more than 170 local artisans including specially featured young artisans showing off their handmade items. Admission to this event is free at both locations.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN MUSHROOM FESTIVAL
Felton | May 4-5, 2024 | CaliforniaMushroomFestival.com
“Building community through fungi”: Experience this new festival focused on our local mushroom bounty. Enjoy demos, DIY booths, nature walks, live music and a kids zone.

KINETIC GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP
Humboldt County | May 25-27, 2024 | KineticGrandChampionship.com
For three days, pilots and crews guide kinetic sculptures in a 40-mile race across roads, sand, mud and water. These “all-terrain human-powered art vehicles” include fun details such as faces, fire cannons and other unusual features. This event has been held for more than 50 years: now it’s your turn to experience it.

CALIFORNIA EXTREME
Santa Clara | July 27-28, 2024 | CAExtreme.org
“The classic arcade game show”: Lean into your nostalgia and play hundreds of old-school games, all day with no coins needed. Options include pinball machines, arcade games, video games and many that you just can’t find much any more. Introduce the kids to your hard-to-find favorites!

THE WORLD DOG SURFING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Pacifica | August 3, 2024 | SurfDogChampionships.com
“Hanging ten with man’s best friend”: Human and dog surfers gather to seek the best waves at Linda Mar Beach. You’re guaranteed to catch lots of fun sights. Grab some dog surfing merchandise while you’re there. The event helps raise money for good causes. Admission is free.

THE LITTLE CAR SHOW
Pacific Grove | August 14, 2024
Featuring over 100 cars from micro to mini to arcane vehicles, you’ll enjoy browsing and cheering for these cute, fun cars as much as your kids will. Browse on Lighthouse Avenue or watch them cruise down Ocean View Boulevard to Asilomar State Beach. Free admission.

NIGHTS OF THE JACK
Calabasas | September 29-October 31, 2024 | NightsoftheJack.com
“The premiere immersive Halloween experience”: Lights everywhere, pumpkins made into huge animals such as gorillas and elephants, Jack-o-Lantern trees and more. Walk their spooky trail with some hot cider.

DEATH VALLEY ‘49ERS ENCAMPMENT
Death Valley National Park | DeathValley49ers.org
Join the Death Valley ‘49ers for gold rush-style activities, from gold panning and gem mining, doll-making, and blacksmithing demonstrations. 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of this event.

INDIO INTERNATIONAL TAMALE FESTIVAL
December 7-8, 2024 | IndioTamaleFestival.com
Celebrated since the 1990s, venture to Indio in early December to enjoy thousands of tamales, carnival rides, mariachi, and plenty of music appealing to all ages. Which flavor will be your favorite? Free admission.

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Flying With A Baby: Tips to Make it Better Than You Expect




I dreaded the first flights with my baby (five in total over the course of three weeks), but thanks to following these tips, I had a surprisingly great experience! Hope they are helpful.

Crowdsourced from many wise people I've encountered:
-Make sure the baby starts sucking 40 min before landing to protect their ears—set a timer based on when landing is predicted.
-Bring extra clothes for the baby and all adults.
-Wear a baby carrier through the airport and definitely through security.
-Drink extra water whenever you can—flight attendants are happy to help—and pack plenty of snacks for yourself.
-Wear a Boppy as a neck pillow then it will be handy for nursing and for letting baby sleep on.
-Use the MAMAVA App to find nursing spaces. Or review designated nursing spaces on the airport’s map.
-Don't board early; we found it most helpful to board as late as possible after friends had recommended it. Obviously stay close so you don’t cause any trouble making the flight.
-Wear a nursing cover scarf if you like.
-You can get a free pass from the airline ticket counter for someone to accompany you to the boarding gate.
-Flight attendants can heat up bottles for you. No need to ask for a cup of hot water and fumble with it yourself.
-Dressing in layers is very helpful.
-Change diapers as close to when you board as possible: you may be able to skip or at least minimize plane changes.

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

My Favorite Survival Tips for a New Baby’s Arrival


Notes to my friends and family from my early postpartum self! My favorite survival and sanity-saving methods for those wild early days.

-Everything on the KellyMom website—my Lactation Consultant told me it was all the same advice she gives.

-Have lots of extra burp cloths, baby towels, regular towels, extra t-shirts nearby because they run out faster than you’d think at the beginning.

-Wear lightweight button-down shirts to help with feedings and your temperature changes.

-Listening to the First Forty Days audiobook (by Heng Ou) was helpful to encourage me to take it slow.

-MamasteFit has a free early postpartum course with some suggested breathing and stretching.

-Massage from the outside in as you’re nursing sometimes: a veteran women’s health nurse said it’s the most common place to have issues.

-Try free doula text support from JustBirthSpace on Facebook messenger.

-Have your partner prep multiple water glasses in the bathroom and near the couch/bed so that it's nearby anytime the urge strikes plus will hopefully remind you to drink.

-Request a referral and set up a future appointment with a pelvic floor PT—at least in my area, it takes a while to get in—and they can assist with an exam, breathing and mobility exercises, scar tissue mobilization and a diastasis recti check if you are uncomfortable or unsure about what to do on your own like I was. They may even offer virtual consultations!

-Use the side-lying feeding position to get some "pseudo-rest".

-Leave the house dirty, it’ll be okay. It's just a season and nothing is normal right now.

-Try for the 5-5-5 rule: 5 days in bed, 5 days on the bed and 5 days around the bed. My doula recommended no more than 15 minute walks in the first month and being horizontal as much as possible the first two weeks.

-Let the light in during baby’s daytime naps for a bit to help with day-night confusion.

-Keep cashews, almonds, your nut of choice or protein bars very nearby to prevent urgent hanger.

-Try infant massage for baby gas.

-Hang up anything wet to air dry—get your partner to do it if you’re too tired.


And know that it will definitely get easier!

Sunday, January 14, 2024

Family Photos Around Monterey, CA

(So I decided to write this article within an hour of taking family photos and didn’t even realize until the next day. Is this “mom brain”? Probably.)

If photos bring you joy, take advantage of your kids’ cuteness and the many local photographers to preserve memories in our beautiful home. It’s a truly spectacular area among the loveliest in the country. Please be sure to use a “Leave No Trace” mindset to keep it pristine for everyone.

“I feel beyond grateful to photograph families around the Monterey Peninsula. It is truly one-of-a-kind area—there is so much beauty and variety here. Garrapata Beach, Sobrennes Trail and Fort Ord Dunes are my favorites,” said experienced photographer Alexandra Podobnik of Alexandra Megan Photography.



 


Here are some ideas of worthwhile locations, no matter what backdrop you crave:

Around Town

-Your home or yard: Feel happiest right where you are? Simplify logistics and take advantage of your own space and things. Perhaps include favorite family items. Ideally spruce up a bit first—perhaps schedule for right after spring cleaning.

-Main Street, Salinas*: Cool storefronts and signage.

-Colton Hall Lawn, Monterey: Spacious grassy lawn in the middle of historic downtown.

-Portrait studio: Capture classic personality or heirloom-style portraits and newborns in a home studio with a clean backdrop such as offered locally by Love in Focus (https://loveinfocusphotos.com/).

-The neighborhood around Alta Bakery, Monterey*: Great architecture and flowers.

-Downtown Carmel*: Enjoy the storybook vibes.

-Behind the Custom House, Monterey*: Gorgeous flowers, Adobe character.

-(For military only) Hotel Del Monte, Monterey*: Steeped in history with great steps, fountains, rooftop and a rose garden.

-Cannery Row, Monterey*: It’s classic for a reason. Go early to try to miss crowds.

 

Greenery

-Jack’s Peak Park, Monterey*: Great views high above the peninsula. Prepare for a hike.

-Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel*: Enjoy this favorite area park’s wide variety of trails but avoid peak time by going on weekdays or near closing. Definitely comfortable shoes.

-Nisene Marks, Aptos*: Amazing for redwoods.

-Garland Ranch Regional Park, Carmel Valley*: There are plenty of trails, trees, and tall grass plus the Carmel hills in the background. Be careful to avoid poison oak.

-Check with local flower and veggie farms* in Salinas, Carmel and more based on your favorites.

 

Coastline

-Lover’s Point and the rec trail, Pacific Grove*: There are so many sweet spots along the trail. Consider avoiding peak commute/exercise times.

-Asilomar Beach, Pacific Grove*: It’s a classic for a reason.

-Ribera Beach, Carmel*: Striking rocks and trails.

-Garrapata State Park, Carmel*: Go especially when the winter/early spring lilies are out but be prepared for mud. We like to wear rain boots.

-Bixby Bridge pull-off, Carmel*: Bring along some extra patience for managing the parking situation here. (Be sure to check if the road is open before you set out as the Big Sur area can be precarious.)

-Fort Ord Dunes Park, Seaside*: Majestic sand dunes and good parking near the ocean.

*Please be mindful that permits are required for these locations.

 

Some tips to make the most of family photos:

-Consider nap times and schedules to aim for the smiliest times.

-Pack water, snacks, bottles and/or common kid requests.

-Consider diapers and/or potty breaks in your plan.

-Pre-apply sunscreen, as needed, taking care not to get on clothing.

-Aim for golden hour (one hour after sunrise or before sunset) in the morning or evening if you can.

-Take some toys along to encourage smiling.

-Pack several extra outfits, especially for littler ones.

-Perhaps pick a photographer who has children so you know that they’ll understand much of what you’re working with. Our favorite photographer helped us make many fart noises to make the baby smile with amazing results.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Your (Toddler) Sleep Questions are Answered! (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)

Graduated from The Cradle Coach Academy and My Sweet Sleep Academy

Newborn Care Specialist, The Cradle Coach Academy

Member of the Association of Professional Sleep Consultants 


Please introduce yourself. How did you get into sleep consulting?

I’m Lexi Teska of Lullaby Lexi Sleep (baby and toddler sleep consultant, ages 0–5). I trained with The Cradle Coach Academy as a newborn care specialist and sleep consultant and am a certified Sweet Sleep Academy consultant and Association of Professional Sleep Consultants member. I got into this partially because I had three kids under three and had hired a pediatric sleep consultant as a sleep-deprived military spouse with a deployed husband.

What are some of the greatest misconceptions you notice? What is confusing parents and making it harder to encourage healthy sleep?

Often parents think being a sleep consultant means teaching “cry it out”—which couldn’t be further from the truth. There are so many gentle and parent-responsive ways to set your child up with healthy sleep foundations.

A lot of the confusion out there stems from the abundance of online information thrown at parents. Most of the information is general and doesn’t take into consideration your child’s unique temperament. Children are all so different. It’s important to find what works best for each one.

Is there anything special to keep in mind while traveling or hosting? How about encountering different seasons?

While traveling, try to replicate your child’s regular sleep environment and routine. For example, if at home they sleep in a crib with their sleep sack, bring a travel crib and sleep sack on your trip. If you have a toddler who sleeps with their favorite stuffed animal, be sure to bring it along.

For changing seasons/temperatures, it’s important to consider what kind of pajamas your child should have. In colder climates, consider some thicker fleece pajamas, but in warmer climates, you might opt for a lighter onesie or bamboo pajamas.

If you use a sleep sack for your child, you can also look up the thermal overall grade (TOG) rating. The higher the TOG rating, the warmer the fabric: 0.5 TOG sleep sacks may be suitable for warm climates, but you may want one with a TOG rating of 2.0 or higher for a cold climate.

What should you do if your childcare facility does not provide an optimal sleep environment or schedule for your child (for example, a daycare with multiple kids in one room or a schedule that doesn’t align with their natural rhythms)?

I always tell parents to try not to stress about things that aren’t in their control. Children are so adaptable. Make the best of the situation and focus on what you can when your child is at home. An early bedtime—even as early as 6 p.m.—can work wonders on days where naps aren’t great.

Toddlers and preschoolers often deal with teething or getting sick. What are some ways to help adjust sleep practices and encourage them to bounce back to a great sleep routine after the teeth are in, for example?

Give extra comfort when needed, but try to stay consistent in the routine. It’s okay if things look different for a day or two, but always try to get right back to the normal routine to prevent new habits from forming.

How do you help a toddler sleep on the go (such as in a car seat, carrier, or stroller) or in a noisy or well-lit environment if they typically fall asleep in a quiet, dark environment?

All toddlers are different. Some do really well napping on the go, but so many struggle with this. It can help to have them in the car seat or stroller before their scheduled nap time so they aren’t already overtired before you head out. There are also great portable sound machines.

How late is too late for a toddler or preschooler to go to sleep?

This depends on what time they wake up and their overall schedule for the day. The ideal range for bedtime in line with natural circadian rhythms is 7–8 p.m.

How do you get preschoolers to not draw out bedtime (for example, to stop asking for lots of things before sleeping)?

Toddlers are natural boundary pushers, which is a healthy and normal part of development. I love to use a “bedtime pass.” It helps children get that sense of control that they crave. Essentially, they get a special ticket each night at bedtime, and they then can choose if and when to turn in that ticket for a chance to get out of bed for a specific reason.

Once the ticket has been used, it’s important for parents to practice holding the boundary and explain, “You have already used your bedtime pass tonight. You will get a new bedtime pass tomorrow night.”

Talk to me about “sleep training.” We know some babies are too young for sleep training. Is there a too-old-for-sleep-training age and/or do the methods change after a certain age?

The schedules and routines may change based on the child’s age, but the actual sleep training method that I use is the same despite age. I always use a gentle approach where the parent stays in the room with their child until the child is asleep.

There is no age limit to learning healthy sleep hygiene. I’m certified through age 5, but other sleep consultants work with older children.

When should parents/caregivers reach out for help?

Before you become overwhelmed—lack of sleep takes a toll on the whole family. I offer free 20-minute consultations for anyone who wants to discuss options for their specific situation.

For additional information: LullabyLexiSleep.com

Monterey County Libraries for Littles (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)



Make this the year that you and your preschooler try out the abundant free events and resources curated by dedicated librarians from our local libraries!

Early exposure to words is fundamental for a child’s language skills as well as their cognitive and social–emotional development (per Pediatrics, Volume 142, Issue 4, October 2018, Early Language Exposure and Middle School Language and IQ: Implications for Primary Prevention). Libraries certainly have plenty of engaging books—and Monterey County offers many library branches—but libraries also offer a chance to play with cool toys, learn more about your community, and maybe even meet new friends. There are libraries from Big Sur to Salinas, Pacific Grove to King City, and San Lucas to Aromas, with well over 20 branches across Monterey County.

“You should really get a library card for all of them,” recommends Sarah Nolan, event programming librarian at the Monterey Public Library. Many of these libraries have dedicated children’s librarians working hard to help little ones learn and thrive.

Beyond traditional brick-and-mortar libraries, there are Little Free Libraries all across town: Try your luck at finding early reader books for your home library while you’re out for a walk. Many locations are listed at littlefreelibrary.org, but it’s always a sweet surprise to find a new one!

Bookmobiles provide library services in areas distant from branches or with other access barriers. Google “Monterey bookmobile” to ask questions or to suggest a new stop.

Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) and Monterey Public Library also operate bookmobiles that visit Moss Landing, Pebble Beach, Carmel Highlands, Carmel Valley Manor, the Pajaro Park, East Garrison, Las Lomas, Spreckels Memorial Park, Toro Park, and Ohlone/Royal Oaks as well as La Mesa Village, Montecito Park, Merrill Gardens, The Park Lane, Casanova Oak Knoll, New Monterey, and El Estero Center, respectively.

Here are just some of the Monterey County library offerings. Check the respective library websites for complete details.

SONG AND STORY TIMES

Salinas’s Cesar Chavez Library offers Toddler Tales on Fridays from 10:00–11:00 a.m.

The Marina branch hosts preschool storytime every Thursday from 10:15–10:45 a.m.

The Aromas branch has storytime on Thursdays at 1:00 p.m.

The Seaside branch offers Stay and Play with Story Time on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Salinas’s El Gabilan Library hosts Learn and Play Story Time on Tuesdays from 12:00–12:45 p.m.

Carmel’s Park Branch Children’s Library has storytime on Wednesdays (besides holidays) from 10:15–11:00 a.m. It features stories, rhymes, songs, and hands-on activities designed for children ages 2 to 5 and their parents and caregivers.

The Monterey Public Library hosts weekly toddler/preschool storytimes on Tuesday afternoons in the community room. All are welcome, especially ages 2 to 5.

(Note: For preschool and younger programs or programs for all ages, parent participation is expected and younger siblings are allowed.)

The Pacific Grove Public Library offers Toddler Tales on Mondays from 11:00–11:30 a.m.

Salinas’s John Steinbeck Library offers Story Time Jamboree for ages 0 to 7 on Thursdays from 4–4:30 p.m.

The Carmel Valley branch offers a fun and interactive weekly preschool storytime program (designed for infants and kids up to age 4) with singing, movement, and engaging stories on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

PLAY TIMES

The Pacific Grove Public Library offers preschool stories on Tuesdays from 11:00–11:30 a.m. Miss Mary and Barnaby Bear read stories and sing songs developmentally tailored for preschoolers, but all ages are welcome.

The Salinas Public Library hosts playgroups for those ages 1 to 4. These groups provide exploratory activities to help develop a child’s skills. Registration is required. Call 831-758-7355 for more information.

The Carmel Park Branch Children’s Library offers craft programs once a month on Fridays. They also host sessions of LEGO Lab and game times.

The Marina branch presents Build and Play! on Tuesdays from 4:00–6:45 p.m. They lay out toys in the kids’ area, from MAGNA-TILES, LEGO bricks, and KEVA planks to larger DUPLO blocks, and you bring your building creativity! Come with your little ones to play together and socialize with other families.

The Carmel Valley branch offers Stay and Play, with colorful toys that encourage motor and social development. For more information, call the branch at 831-647-7760 or email Ashley at griffithsa@co.monterey.ca.us.

The Pacific Grove Public Library hosts open playtime on Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

PARENT AND CHILD-FRIENDLY OPTIONS:

As of January 2023, Monterey Public Library has new parent–child corrals available as workstations as well as a quiet space for nursing.

LOCAL RESOURCES:

The Marina branch offers monthly Dads Read events featuring storytimes led by area fathers, as well as clothes and toys swaps.

The Monterey Public Library, Carmel Harrison Public Library, and other local libraries offer California State Park passes to be checked out for three weeks at a time by cardholders. Take your little one to explore a new area or enjoy a walk.

Low-income families residing in Monterey County qualify for one free aquarium pass per season (September through April) via the Shelf-to-Shore program through the MCFL, Monterey, and Pacific Grove libraries. Call to check if passes are available and present your library card for a qualifying adult aged 18+.

DIGITAL RESOURCES:

MCFL has an extensive YouTube Channel that offers Rhymes and Songs videos in English and Spanish for preschoolers. Additional fun options include Little Chef, STEAM Time, Backyard Science, Make It Monday, and more.

Recorded songs, stories, and experiment tutorials are available anytime at Monterey.org’s kid’s page under the library tab.

MCFL offers a database called Tumble Book Library, accessible with an MCFL library card or a free trial: Tumblebooklibrary.com

BOOKS AND READING:

PBS Kids: Educational games and videos from Curious George, Wild Kratts, and other PBS Kids shows! (PBSKids.org)

Footsteps2Brilliance: Free access to a selection of 500 interactive, award-winning digital ebooks, songs, and activities (Footsteps2Brilliance.com)

Story Time from Space: A project of the Global Space Education Foundation, Story Time from Space sends children’s books to the International Space Station so astronauts can read them to you! (StorytimefromSpace.com)

ADDITIONAL MCFL-RECOMMENDED RESOURCES:

1-2-3 Andrés: Interactive music for kids and families that teaches Spanish language and Latin American culture (YouTube or 123Andres.com)

The Singing Walrus: Interactive, catchy songs designed to encourage children to engage with the music and learn new things in a playful way (YouTube)

MATH:

Funbrain: Hundreds of games, books, comics, and videos that develop skills in math, reading, problem-solving, and literacy for prekindergarteners.


Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Creating Joyful Holidays (originally for Monterey Bay Parent Magazine)

Here are eleven suggestions on how to lighten your stress level so you can increase the joy in your holiday season.

Special moments of watching your children break into big smiles after opening a gift or taking holiday photos in sweet matching outfits are what make the December holidays so special. But the holidays can be (usually are?) hectic and stressful. It is all too easy for parents to find themselves frazzled with the planning, cooking, and shopping that is part of the holiday. Kids are so full of magic during this special season that we parents want to avoid as much stress as possible so we can be present and enjoying these precious days.
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Local postpartum mental health specialist Kristina Anzell, LCSW says, “Let go of perfection: with a new baby or young child, there are a lot more stressors, unpredictable moments, and more chaos. Things will not be perfect and that is okay. Let go as much as you can and focus on the things you can control.” It’s great advice!

Consider implementing a few of these ideas to more fully enjoy your Chrismahanukwanzakah season:

  1. Suggest a gift exchange for the extended family. Pick out a really great present for one person or a few people instead of trying to tackle a long list.
  2. Pack, prep, and list. If you have room, pack or prep as you think of things. If it’s not practical to do so, make a list as you remember items so that it won’t be so tough to host the party or get to the airport hoping you have everything you need for yourself and your kids.
  3. Don’t let thankfulness end after Thanksgiving. Cultivate gratitude by jotting down the best things in your life to keep your perspective more positive. Write on your mirror or set your phone background to an inspiring quote to help make this part of each day.
  4. Look for alternatives to physical presents at out-of-town visits. If you’ll be traveling out of town, ask if family members would consider mailing presents to your home and instead wrap photos of the items to keep suitcases or trunks more streamlined—more fun than a gift card but without the drama of trying to fit everything in. Or, give experience gifts that you can all enjoy together while you’re visiting, such as a day out at a family-oriented attraction.
  5. Consider hosting away from home. You’ll minimize cleaning and prep time. Or choose a potluck or cookie exchange instead of a more labor-intensive gathering.
  6. Skip the perfect clothing. Unless it brings you joy, your kids don’t need to wear matching pajamas or wrinkle-free dresses. The photos will still be cute.
  7. Review your memories from the year. Use your photos, calendar, or journal or chat with friends and family to reminisce on 2023’s moments of triumph, happiness, nostalgia, and beauty.
  8. Plan ahead with your family. Get on the same page with your spouse or other holiday buddy before you’re in the middle of things: What is most important to you this holiday season? How will you navigate any potentially awkward situations with relatives or friends? What kind of healthy snacks do you want to stock up on beforehand?
  9. Lower the stress. In the midst of it all, make time to lower stress levels with a walk, yoga, or stretching, some bible study or meditation, calling a low-drama friend, or even some adult coloring. Even a few minutes are beneficial. Perhaps schedule a recurring reminder on your calendar or phone.
  10. Donate instead of gift. Not sure what to get that person? Donate to a charity in their name. You can even let them choose the cause through a gift card to GlobalGiving.org.
  11. Clean up time as a family.  When it’s time to take down the decorations, enlist the kids and make it a game. My mother challenged us to see who could find the most Christmas decorations at the end of December, and thanks to the competition, the house was back to normal quite quickly. I’ve been biding my time for many years to finally use this trick to my advantage.

One last bit of advice comes from Shauna Worthington, postpartum doula and parent educator with Parenting Connection of Monterey County:

“Children learn to regulate their nervous systems from their caregivers which means they can sense stress. To help with calming or sleep this holiday, try focusing on your feelings and filling your cup first. Take a few deep breaths, go outside for a quick walk, or take a moment to stretch. When your child sees you are calm, they are more likely to follow suit.”

The bottom line is that creating a great holiday for your family is a noble goal but it’s also important to have some fun yourself. Try a few of these tips to see if you can destress this holiday season so you can be more fully present and enjoy the special moments.

Happy holidays from my family to yours!