Calm amidst the chaos
The holiday season is undoubtedly a magical time for tamariki (children), filled with the enchantment of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the promise of joy. However, beneath the surface of these festive moments, many tamariki experience overwhelming feelings that can significantly impact their behaviour. Understanding the sources of this overwhelm and implementing strategies to provide much-needed downtime is crucial, and it's equally important to recognise the potential pitfalls of using Santa as a behavior-modifying tool.
The excitement of Christmas brings with it a whirlwind of activities – from gift shopping to parties and other social events. While these festivities are enjoyable, they can be a lot for young minds to process. The pressure to participate in various events, coupled with the anticipation of gifts and the general frenetic energy, can create a perfect storm for emotional turbulence.
Recognizing the signs of overwhelm in tamariki is crucial. Common indicators may include increased irritability, meltdowns, or changes in sleep patterns. It's essential for parents and whānau to be attuned to these signals and respond with empathy and support.
One effective strategy to mitigate holiday overwhelm is to schedule pockets of downtime for tamariki. Consider saying, “thanks, and we’ll give this opportunity a miss” the next time you’re invited to more than one event in a weekend. Amidst the flurry of activities, carve out moments where tamariki can reset and restore. After a busy kindergarten day, heading straight home to allow for digesting the day is a good idea. You might like to put a hiatus on playdates for the next couple of weeks. Creating a balance between festive events and downtime allows tamariki to process their experiences, recharge their energy, and regain a sense of calm.
Importantly, using Santa as a tool to modify behaviour can exacerbate stress. Threats like 'Santa won't come if you do this/that' can add to children's angst, not to mention how this might be processed if you intend to ‘visit’ Santa for a photo opportunity. Don’t be surprised if your tamaiti (child) wants nothing to do with sitting next to the big man in red. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and creating a supportive environment that fosters a sense of security and understanding.
Here at Four Seasons, you will find the teaching team calmly approaching the end of the kindergarten year, consistently holding our rhythm. We like to think we can be a calm oasis amidst all the busyness at this time of the year.
Remember, amidst the glittering lights and cheerful festivities, the gift of peace and tranquillity is one of the most precious presents you can offer your child during this special season.