Noted Psychologist Chris Dendy, a resident of Cedar Bluff, recently spent some time visiting with WEIS Radio Morning Show Host Jerry Baker to discuss DE-STRESSING THE HOLIDAYS – offering a number of helpful tips to cope with the hustle and bustle of the season, focusing on dealing with children who may find dealing with the excitement too much to deal with – often leading them to “act out” or become difficult during family gatherings or social events.
TIPS FOR DE-STRESSING THE HOLIDAYS
The “DE-STRESSING THE HOLIDAYS” tips that you choose will depend on your child’s age and challenges. So, it’s really important to know just what your child can handle and which situations are difficult. Avoid or minimize situations that you know your child can’t handle very well. Pace yourself during this busy holiday season, stay calm – and most important of all – have realistic expectations for your child.
- EXPECT AND PLAN FOR EXCITEMENT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
- AVOID HOLIDAY EVENTS THAT ARE DIFFICULT FOR YOUR CHILD
- SELECT EVENTS – DON’T OVER SCHEDULE
- STRUCTURE FAMILY EVENTS OR PARTIES TO ENSURE A GOOD EXPERIENCE
- PLAN AHEAD, BRING SUPPORT ITEMS TO HOLIDAY EVENTS
- GIVE GUIDANCE REGARDING YOUR CHILD’S APPEARANCE AT HOLIDAY EVENTS
- DISCUSS THEIR CHRISTMAS (HANUKKAH) WISH LIST
- MAKE THE HOLIDAY SEASON AND OPENING PRESENTS MORE ENJOYABLE
- IF YOU’RE HOSTING A PARTY, HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP MAKE THINGS EASY
- LAST – BUT NOT LEAST – TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF, SO THAT YOU’RE NOT TOO STRESSED!!
Dendy also discussed several other issues during her visit including the latest statistics on a very important topic – texting and driving and the dangerous consequences of doing so and the shocking amount of time that teenagers devote to using cell phones on a daily basis.
To hear that interview in its entirety simply click the link provided
