Whether you’re four years old or 40 years old, holiday gatherings can be a lot to handle. There’s the stress of travel, the lack of daily routines, new environments and people.

And not to be Grinch-y, but there’s also the noise and the constant hustle and bustle to contend with.

While plenty of adults have learned to navigate the ups and downs (avoiding those uncomfortable political conversations at all costs), for children, some advance holiday guidance or a prep talk from parents may be in order.

“So many kids struggle during the holidays. Even too much of a good thing – like playing with cousins, eating sweets or watching favourite holiday movies – can overwhelm young nervous systems,” Melissa Schwartz, author and parenting coach for highly sensitive families at Leading Edge Parenting, told HuffPost.

Big family holidays can be overwhelming and overstimulating for adults. So kids might need some extra support going into them.

“When children know what to expect and have tools ready for when it gets too loud, too busy, or just too much, they can actually enjoy the day rather than just survive it,” Schwartz added.

With that sage advice in mind (and in hopes of avoiding tearful meltdowns or drama), here are some of the topics to talk with kids about before the big holiday gatherings are upon us.

Tell them what they can expect

Whether you’re visiting a family member’s home, heading to a friend’s party, or attending a gala event, set the scene in advance for your children.

Walk them through the details: Who will be in attendance? What will the day look like? You could even include preparing them for the sounds they might be exposed to, such as music or noisy plates clanging. Crowded rooms and loud sounds can be challenging for kids, particularly those who are sensitive or neurodivergent.

Providing details about what to expect in advance and setting expectations “helps children feel safe and reduces behavioural flare-ups that come from overwhelm, even when they’re out of their usual environment,” explained Schwartz.

Turn the classic ‘best........

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