Holidays Without Pressure: Simple Ways to Care for Yourself and Your Family
Holidays are often imagined as a time of rest, yet for many people, they come with disrupted routines, travel stress, and often emotional overload. Between gatherings, expectations, and changing schedules, both adults and young people can feel overwhelmed.
Research and child development experts agree on one key point: small, predictable actions help restore a sense of safety and balance.
For young people, even during school breaks, routine provides emotional stability. Simple daily rhythms such as shared meals, quiet time, outdoor play, and consistent bedtimes can reduce anxiety and behavioural stress. Visual schedules or letting children choose between two activities help them feel involved and grounded.
For parents and caregivers, self-care does not need to be elaborate. Taking short moments each day to pause, breathe, or speak with someone supportive can significantly reduce stress. Modeling calm behaviour teaches young people how to regulate their own emotions.
Health also plays a role during the holidays. Good hygiene, rest, hydration, and listening to your body are practical ways to protect the whole family, especially during travel or large gatherings.
The EMBRACE Project encourages families to approach holidays with flexibility rather than perfection. Emotional well-being grows through presence, kindness, and realistic expectations, not packed schedules.
Source: Adapted from expert guidance by UNICEF, Handling the holidays, https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-care/handling-holidays
