Hello all!
After a week spent in California attending the International ADHD conference, I was super inspired to continue working on the blog! ***insert happy dance*** And with the holidays coming up, there's much to discuss.
Ah, the holiday season! A time filled with sparkling lights, joyful music, and the promise of coming together with loved ones. For children, it’s a magical time of year, full of anticipation for family gatherings and the gifts they’ve been dreaming of. But for many parents and family members, this time of year can come with its own set of challenges. The pressure to organize the perfect celebration and shop for the ideal gifts can sometimes overshadow the joy of the season, leaving us feeling more anxious than merry.
For families managing ADHD, whether it’s in children, yourself, or a partner, the holiday season can bring additional levels of stress. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way, and there are ways to navigate these festivities with a sense of calm and enjoyment. Many families find solace in simplifying their celebrations, focusing on what truly matters to them. This might mean letting go of the pressure to attend every event or opting for more meaningful, less extravagant gifts. By paring down and emphasizing the aspects of the season that resonate most with you and your family, you can create a holiday experience that is both manageable and memorable.
Let’s embrace this holiday season with empathy, understanding, and the willingness to redefine what it means to celebrate. Whether it’s setting boundaries, creating new traditions, or simply allowing yourself to enjoy the small moments, you have the power to craft a holiday experience that brings joy to you and your loved ones. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about simply spending time with loved ones whatever that looks like.
"Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become... the votes build up," - James Clear, Atomic Habits
Thriving During the Holidays: Essential ADHD Strategies
1. Plan Ahead:
Create a simple, flexible schedule for holiday events and tasks. Use a calendar or planner to keep track of dates, and try to start preparations early to avoid last-minute stress. I highly recommend using Google calendar in collaboration with the Google tasks widget. ***Google tasks hack for iPhone users: download the larger size widget and put it on your first page on your iPhone.
2. Set Realistic Expectations:
Understand your limits and prioritize activities that bring you happiness. It’s okay to say no to events that feel overwhelming. It doesn’t make you less than! Be proud of yourself for prioritizing your needs. Your future self will thank you.
3. Simplify Gift Giving:
Consider giving experiences or handmade gifts instead of material items. This can reduce stress, a chance dive into your creative side, and make the gifting process more meaningful for everyone involved.
4. Create a Calm Environment:
Designate a quiet space in your home (or wherever you are) where you or your child can decompress when the festivities become anxiety inducing or overstimulating. This can be a place to recharge your social battery and take a some time to yourself.
5. Delegate Tasks:
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from the people around you. Even though the party may be at your house, it doesn’t mean that it’s all on you! Ask the people around you! Sharing responsibilities can lighten your load and allow you to be more present with your family and friends.
6. Practice Mindfulness:
Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing for clearer thoughts or trying meditation. (You don’t need to stop thinking, you just need to allow your brain to slow down for a few minutes.)
7. Limit Sensory Overload:
Be mindful of sensory triggers such as loud music or bright lights. Consider quieter more subdued decorations and environments if these elements become overstimulating. For example, opting out of a neighborhood Christmas party with loud adults and screaming kids. Instead, plan a special night for your immediate family and a few others and have a night where you can bake cookies for Santa or watch one of your favorite Christmas movies.
8. Embrace Imperfection:
Remember that it’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned. Some of the best memories are the spontaneous ones.
9. Reflect and Adjust:
After each holiday season, take some time to reflect on what you enjoyed vs. what was more challenging. Use this insight to make adjustments for future celebrations. AND give yourself a big pat on the back for prioritizing your own/your families mental health!
Remember, the true spirit of the holidays lies in the connections and cherished moments shared with those we love. Wishing you a peaceful and wonderful holiday season!
All the best,
Coach Paige
Are you or your child struggling with your ADHD? I can help! Click below!
Coach Paige Krug is a Chicago-based ADHD coach, learning behavior specialist, and educational advocate. She is passionate about her clients having the appropriate support they need to be successful inside and outside the classroom. She spends her free time with her husband enjoying the best gluten free eats around Chicago, playing with their sweet pup Ollie, and claims the title of number fan of the Bravo Network especially the Real Housewives franchise.
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