Ah, the holidays—a time of rest, joyous family gatherings, and the harmonious sound of…meltdowns.
The reality is that this season often adds stress to families, especially for its youngest members.
Different schedules, new places, travel times, rich foods, family photos, and general overstimulation affect everything from mealtime to bedtime, which can contribute to not-so-merry meltdowns.
While grownups have the ability to command self-control faster, the brain’s pre-frontal cortex (where this function is typically associated) is not fully developed until adulthood. Additionally, relaxation is a learned behavior, which is why trying to reason with a toddler during a tantrum doesn’t usually work.
So, in the midst of holiday chaos, it’s important to gently teach children how to relax. Music and movement are some of the best tools out there to help little ones reset, recoup, and get ready for the next event.
Continue reading “5 Musical Ways to Manage Holiday Meltdowns”