As families grow and social environments change, so do celebrations. Let the newness of this year inspire you to try something different when you are celebrating New Year’s with kids. Here are some tips for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Turn back time: Why...
by Cindy Springsteen The holiday season is here, and many of us are struggling this year to find holiday spirit. The normal hustle and bustle that we usually experience during this time of the year is more challenging because of social distancing and the fear of...
‘Tis the season to be jolly and joyous, but this year brought extra stress and anxiety! This year, the holiday traditions and festivities we usually enjoy will look very different from what they have in the past. Though we may not be able to celebrate Christmas in our...
Every year, for one day in March, people of any background get to celebrate the “Luck of the Irish!” St. Patrick’s Day is a great holiday for exploring new traditions and bringing extra joy to the ones you love. Here are some fun activities you can do with your own...
In a conversation with two elementary-aged children, I asked them to share their thoughts with me about Valentine’s Day. Even though I know these young girls to be kind, conscientious, and incredibly respectful, I was surprised by some of their answers. I thought, for...
Holiday crowds, lights, noise, strangers, hugging, change in routine, and chaos. When your child has special needs, holidays could be a recipe for stress and sensory overload. As parents, we need to be flexible with our definition of what a holiday should look like....
Thanksgiving is a special holiday that has brought families together since Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday to be celebrated every year on the last Thursday of November. While the times have changed, the message of a family Thanksgiving has remained the same...
A mindful Halloween means maximizing fun and reducing stress for kids, adults, and teachers. Personalize your Halloween experience by taking a moment to consider your child’s needs. You know your child best; if they do not do well in noisy situations,...
Forget Hollywood idealistic moments of the perfect Valentine’s Day and movies that depict loneliness if you do not have a romantic partner. Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be limited to you and a partner. Share the day with your children, friends, relatives, or spend...
Every child views ghosts, goblins, costumes, and saying trick-or-treat differently. Age appropriate exposure and participation can keep the fun in Halloween and reduce stress and fear. Here are a few of my favorite ghost busting, stress reducing tips for Halloween....
by Lori Lite When my husband and I were dating, we were both pre-wired to believe that Valentine’s Day Activities meant flowers, chocolates, a reservation at a fancy restaurant with a pricey bottle of wine, and a romantic evening of loving stares and passionate...
Have you heard about it happening? That stress-filled moment when you are caught hiding presents all signed from Santa. You feel paralyzed with fear when faced with talking to kids about Santa. You are stuck between magical wonderment and reality. Your child is...
Are you celebrating Chanukah or Hanukkah with kids? This beautiful holiday celebrating The Festival of Lights provides ample opportunity to introduce your family to stress-reducing techniques and mindful moments. Light the Menorah This is an excellent opportunity to...
by Cindy Springsteen Do you want your holiday’s to be less stressful this year? These fun family Christmas activities are a great way to start some new traditions and shift the focus away from costly gifts. Family Activities: Invite a family or elderly neighbor over....
By Lori Lite Thanksgiving arts and crafts create memories and relieve stress and worry at the same time. Thanksgiving is a wonderful excuse to sit around the table as a family and get creative. You will relax and your children will get a self-esteem boost. Keep it...
Note to Readers: I fell in love with this fall pumpkin activity. Creativity meets relaxation as my artist friend Rita mixes colors and imagination with stress management. Hey all you fantastic Stress Free Kids! Rita Ross and the PocketPeople here, making a quick...
With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is hard to find time for the simple things. When I was growing up there were home cooked meals every night and when I walked in the door my mother was always there. Times are not as simple anymore. In many homes both...
by Lori Lite Easter tips for family fun allow you to put your own creative spin on Easter and incorporate stress management. I can still see my daughter with her hands on her hips declaring her truth. “I understand the Tooth Fairy and Santa, but really now, a giant...
Santa, relatives, parties and the mall can make children nervous or even tremble with fear. Relaxation breathing for children is an effective self-soothing skill they can use before or during their visit with Santa and relatives. Any child with anxiety, Autism,...
By Lori Lite You don’t need to be Irish to tap into St. Patty’s Day. Put your own spin on this holiday to get your Irish (or not) eyes smiling and your soul relaxing. Playful family traditions reduce stress, strengthen relationships and allow for a stress free St....
