Source: David Weisenhorn, Ph.D.; Specialist for Parenting and Child Development at University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment

The holiday season can be a magical time, filled with traditions, celebrations and family gatherings. However, it can also be stressful for parents, with busy schedules, financial pressures and the challenge of managing high expectations. Finding ways to reduce stress while increasing joy is essential for creating a holiday experience that is enjoyable for both parents and children. 

There are many ways to reduce stress during the holidays: 

• Set realistic expectations. Parents often feel pressure to create a "perfect" holiday but trying to live up to this ideal can lead to exhaustion and disappointment. It is important to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time together—rather than striving for perfection in decorations, gifts or events. Simplifying traditions and cutting out activities that feel more like obligations than sources of joy can significantly reduce stress. 
• Plan ahead. By creating a holiday schedule that includes meal planning, shopping and downtime, parents can avoid last-minute chaos. Involving children in the preparation process, whether it’s decorating, cooking or wrapping gifts, can also lighten the load while fostering family bonding.  
• Take care of yourself. The American Psychological Association suggests that setting aside time for self-care, such as exercise, meditation or simply taking a break, is crucial for maintaining balance and reducing stress 

To increase joy during the holidays, focus on: 

• Create meaningful experiences and traditions that emphasize connection and gratitude. These can be simple but powerful, like baking cookies together, going for a family walk to see holiday lights or reading favorite holiday stories. Engaging in shared activities helps build positive memories and strengthens family bonds.
• Practice gratitude. Encourage children to express thankfulness for what they have and involve them in acts of giving. Whether it’s donating toys, making cards for neighbors or volunteering as a family. Teaching children about the joy of giving can shift the focus away from materialism and foster a deeper sense of fulfillment. Research from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley shows that gratitude is strongly associated with happiness, even in children.
• Stay present in the moment. Savoring small joys, such as a warm cup of cocoa or a cozy evening on the couch, can make the holiday season more joyful. By letting go of unnecessary stress and focusing on connection and gratitude, parents can create a holiday atmosphere that is joyful, meaningful and memorable for the entire family.

Contact your local (COUNTY NAME) Extension office for more resources, tips and information.

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