The holiday season brings joy, family, and festivities—but it can also be a whirlwind of events, to-do lists, and unexpected changes. For children with ADHD or learning differences, this busy time can be particularly overwhelming due to the increased demand on executive functioning (EF) skills.
Executive functioning skills are the brain’s “management system,” helping us plan, organize, regulate emotions, and adapt to changes. Think of them as the conductor of an orchestra or an air traffic controller managing various tasks. These skills are essential year-round but are especially critical during the holiday season.
What Are Executive Functioning Skills?
EF skills include:
Planning and Prioritizing: Setting goals and determining the steps to achieve them.
Organization: Keeping track of information and materials.
Time Management: Allocating time effectively and meeting deadlines.
Self-Regulation: Managing emotions and impulses.
Flexibility: Adapting to changing situations and expectations.
The holidays can challenge these skills, but with the right strategies, your child can thrive while enjoying the season.
Strategies to Support Your Child’s EF Skills During the Holidays
Create a Visual Schedule
Use a calendar or whiteboard to map out activities, family gatherings, and finals.
Involve your child in the process, letting them add events and check off completed ones.
Model how you use a visual schedule to stay organized.
Use Analog Clocks, Timers, and Alarms
Help your child manage time effectively with visual cues.
Set alarms for transitions between tasks or reminders for specific activities.
Create a flexible evening schedule to balance fun and responsibilities.
Establish Routines
Maintain consistent routines for wake-up times, meals, and bedtime as much as possible.
Predictability provides a sense of structure and stability during a busy season.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Schedule mindfulness breaks into the day. Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can help your child stay calm and focused.
Mindfulness enhances EF skills by reducing stress and supporting better sleep.
Support Organization with Checklists
Help your child create checklists for academic and personal tasks. Examples: packing, studying, or preparing for events.
Teach them to prioritize tasks: what must be done today, what would be nice to do, and what can wait.
Encourage Flexibility
Prepare your child for changes in routines or unexpected events by discussing potential scenarios.
Encourage a positive attitude toward adapting and letting go of perfection.
Involving Your Child in Holiday Planning
Assign Specific Tasks
Give your child responsibilities like setting the table, decorating, or making shopping lists.
Plan Together
Let your child help create schedules for holiday events or trips, fostering ownership and confidence.
Use Checklists
Help them keep track of tasks and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Encourage Decision-Making
Allow them to make choices and problem-solve during holiday preparations.
Managing Time Effectively During the Holidays
Teach Time Blocking
Show your child how to allocate specific times for activities like play, chores, and relaxation.
Utilize Visual Timers
Use tools like countdown apps or visual timers to help your child stay on track.
Focus on Prioritization
Work together to identify urgent tasks and those that can wait.
Daily Planners
Encourage the use of a planner or journal to structure their day and include breaks for leisure.
Maintaining Learning During the Holiday Break
Daily Reading
Encourage short daily reading sessions with books your child enjoys.
Educational Games
Incorporate learning through games, such as math puzzles, science experiments, or strategy-based card games.
Creative Writing or Journaling
Suggest journaling about holiday experiences or writing creative stories.
Enhancing executive functioning skills is a journey that takes time and practice. With these strategies, you can help your child navigate the holiday season more smoothly while enjoying the festivities. Remember, the goal is progress, not perfection—celebrate small victories and offer lots of positive reinforcement.
If you found these tips helpful, please like and share this post with other parents who might benefit. Don’t forget to check out our Loom video for more insights and follow our page for additional resources. For personalized support, visit WeThrive Learning to learn more about our services. Together, we can make this holiday season a joyful and manageable experience!