As the holidays approach, I ask you this.

How can we help our infant, toddlers and preschoolers transition slowly and successfully into and out of the holidays which tend to be full of environment changing décor?

Young children and babies thrive when there is familiarity to their routines, experiences and environment. Each month the youngest in our families are often exposed to dramatically changing environments as spider webs, ghosts, pumpkins, corn stalks, stars, lights, dreidels, snowflakes, candles, wreaths, trees, and hearts go on display and come down. These ongoing changes take their toll on children and babies sense of security, comfort and predictability. So, as the holidays come and go, take a moment with your littlest ones and be there for them as they adjust and acclimate to their ever changing world.

“By patiently planning a transition out of the holidays for our children, as well as ourselves, we are modeling the significance of these celebrations.  This simple process allow us as adults the opportunity to take a breath and absorb how beautiful and amazing the holidays are with young children because, after all, they grow up so fast. ” (Roseann Murphy. Easing your child back to real life after the holidays. Littler River School. 2010)