Top parenting tips for during the Festive period!
The Christmas period is a time of joy, excitement, and connection. But for some adopted children Christmas can bring its own set of unique challenges alongside the festive celebrations.
From managing expectations of the big day to creating new traditions, the festive period requires thoughtful preparation and understanding from adoptive parents.
Whether you’re celebrating your first Christmas as an adoptive family or have navigated a few, this blog is here to provide practical tips and emotional support to help you have a Christmas that feels meaningful and is manageable for all the family.
For many adopted children the festive period can bring mixed emotions, especially if they associate Christmas with past trauma, loss, or family changes. As an adoptive parent try to be patient and allow them to process their emotions at their own pace, without having to feel "happy" all the time. Let your child know that during the celebrations across the festive period it’s okay for them to feel sad, anxious, or unsure and that they are safe and loved.
The run up to Christmas often disrupts the everyday routines of family and school life. Where possible try sticking to some familiar structure as this can provide comfort and security for your child. You can do this by maintaining regular meals and bedtimes where possible, and by creating a Christmas calendar that highlights your planned activities and events in advance, so your child knows what is coming up.
Creating family traditions can be one of the best parts of the whole Christmas period. However, they can also be both exciting and overwhelming. Consider the needs of your child and keep celebrations simple. Make your child feel included and comfortable, letting them decide which activities they want to participate in especially if your child has recently joined your family. Some of the simplest traditions can be the most special whether that opening an advent calendar each day, or taking time each evening to read a Christmas themed story.
For some adopted children, the sensory overload of the festive period, large family gatherings or memories associated with Christmas can be overwhelming. Look for signs that your child may be feeling intense, overwhelming feelings of withdrawal or is irritable or fearful, and create a safe, quiet space where they can go when they feel overwhelmed by the celebrations. It can be important to remember to be flexible with your traditional activities (e.g. visiting Santa or attending large family gatherings) and be observant to your child’s needs if they are feeling overwhelmed at any point.
As we have already mentioned, Christmas is an opportunity to create new traditions that are unique to your family. However, remember to take photographs, videos, or even create a scrapbook to help them look back and create lasting memories.
Christmas isn’t all about the presents it is also about being present in the moment and enjoying the laughs or quiet moments that connect you as a family.
Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s a shared laugh or a quiet moment of connection, cherish the little joys that make the season special.
Caring for your child’s often heightened needs during the festive period can be emotionally and physically taxing for you too. Make sure to take small breaks for yourself and recharge, even if that is going for a short walk in nature or having a hot brew!
If you need extra help during the festive period make sure you check in with your support network of friends, family or other adoptive parents; you can be sure that you won’t be alone in feeling the often-increased pressures that this time of year can bring.
Christmas for an adoptive family can be an opportunity to blend new traditions with sensitivity and care. By staying flexible, prioritising your child’s emotional needs, and leaning on your support network, you can create a festive celebration that is filled with warmth and connection.
Remember, it’s not about creating the perfect Christmas but about creating a sense of love, belonging, and understanding. No matter how you celebrate, the memories you build now will become cherished parts of your family’s unique adoption story.
Bonus Tip
Our ‘Adopter Stories at Christmas’ podcasts, where we bring you four very special, brand new festive episodes of our Adopter Stories by Adoption Now podcast are out now!
We spoke to some of our families about their Christmas memories as adoptive parents, how they navigate the Christmas period and what they are most looking forward to this Christmas!