“Children don’t know how to ask for what they don’t know they need. Their asking comes in the form of behaviors.”
Bonnie Harris
I don’t know about your kids, but I know that when mine get around other kids they seem to forget their manners and tend to act a bit unruly. With that said we have some very awesome friends and their kids are so good, but what I’m saying is kids tend to play off of one another. They also get different treatment this time of year with the holidays. They get more treats, less rest, and tend to show more undesirable behaviors.
So how as parents can we help to combat this during and after the celebration? Here’s a few suggestions!
First I want you to know that it is very normal for a group of kids to play off one another and act out. Especially if there is a child that is a little naughtier than the others. (There is always one)
Just like adults, the kids will change their behaviors to fit in with whoever they are trying to impress. Sometimes the best way to deal with your child’s behaviors in that moment is to show them how they are acting and calmly tell them that this is not going to be allowed. Now they may be really upset with you, and it might take you separating them from the other children for a bit to get them to listen well. Stick to your guns and try to stay calm.
Second, with all the sugar and extra food they are eating, their little minds are on overload. Along with all the overstimulation that comes with being around a group of other children. Give them a little leeway but do not allow them to walk all over you. As a side note, do not let someone else tell you how you should parent your own child. Try to talk to the kids in a calm manner and keep yourself calm. Take them for a quiet break at times to give their mind some time to relax and get back to themselves. Take them for a walk, or go in another room and read some books to them for a bit. It might do you both some good!
Lastly, the days after the holiday are pretty rough at times for kids. Heck, the day after a holiday is rough for adults! The tiredness, and general just ugh feeling is what I have the day after a celebration. So I can only imagine that’s why the kids are acting out, and being more fussy, or whiny or argumentative. They do not have the coping skills of adults. If you are feeling it the day after, so are they! Try to keep things calm in the house, get some nature time and eat lots of really nutritious meals and snacks. Like I say so many times… Give Grace to all!!!
Remember to also focus on making memories with those littles. Don’t stress over what others think, and find joy!
-Kristy
