Parenting :: Tips to Help Families Celebrate the Seasons Together

The holidays can mean BIG stress for little ones, just as they can for adults – from changes in the daily routine to family squabbles and more. To help keep the season running smoothly for everyone, Angela Santomero, creator and executive producer of top-rated preschool series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and a child development expert for more than 20 years – as well as a mom herself, has some terrific tips to share. We had a chance to interview Ms. Santomero, and I love how she combines her knowledge of childhood development to create outstanding shows for our children to enjoy and learn from. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood offers practical parenting strategies in each episode and here are some from Angela inspired by the series and its upcoming holiday special, “Snowflake Day,” which premiered on November 25 on PBS KIDS and is airing again on November 30th and December 11th. 

• Create Your Own Holiday Traditions – These extra special family rituals will make the season less stressful and more meaningful for everyone. Don’t worry about not sticking with traditions that you grew up with or trying to make everything “perfect.” Whether it’s going to a community show, baking or crafting paper lanterns together, each year offers the opportunity to strengthen your own family’s traditions and make wonderful and lasting new memories!

• Get Your Children Involved – Kids love to participate and to feel like they’re an important part of the holiday preparations, so have them help make place cards, work on decorations, put out gifts, etc. It’s a great way to help get them excited about the festivities – and one less thing for you to have to do, too!

• Prepare Kids for New Situations – Encountering unfamiliar situations can be stressful for young children, so, as Mom Tiger told Daniel, “When we do something new, let’s talk about what we’ll do.” Before going to a holiday party or gathering, let your child know what they’ll experience and who may be there. This will help them relax and feel prepared for what’s ahead!

• Teach Preschoolers to Be Thankful – Did your child get something that wasn’t exactly on their wish list? Let them know that, while it’s OK not to like every gift, it’s important to show their appreciation and remember that someone was thoughtful enough to do something nice for them! Encourage them to make thank you cards to further underscore the importance of being grateful.

• Reinforce the True Meaning of the Holidays – At holiday time, there’s so much pressure to buy, buy, buy. Parents can help head off disappointment by reminding kids that they may not get everything they want. This also provides the perfect opportunity for parents to emphasize the importance of giving to others during the holiday season – and that the most special “gift” of all is spending time together!

And don’t forget to snuggle up with your snow angels and tune in to the adorable new Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood holiday special – “Snowflake Day” – premiering on PBS KIDS, Monday, November 25, with additional airings on Saturday, November 30, and Wednesday, December 11 (check local listings). Another perfect way to reinforce the true spirit of the holidays and importance of giving, the new special is full of twinkling lights and seasonal cheer. The vibrant half-hour show introduces five catchy songs, including a special holiday-themed version of the series’ familiar opening sung by noted jazz vocalist Matt Dusk. Like all Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood episodes, “Snowflake Day” blends the warmth and gentle lessons pioneered by Fred Rogers, which are especially meaningful this time of year.

Thanks Angela for these great tips to help families enjoy the holidays stress-free!  As I am writing this post, my little one is reviewing an app for our new Kate’s Take section on the site (a kid’s eye view of apps, books, movies, etc.) and we have the fire going.  Good way to combine a little work with some cozy time!

Photo courtesy of Flickr.

What are you most excited about this holiday season?

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