Christmas is a magical time, but it can also be challenging for kids with ADHD. The season’s hustle and bustle can overstimulate them, making it harder to manage emotions and behavior. With a bit of preparation and creativity, you can create a holiday experience that balances joy and calm. Here are 12 practical tips to ensure a smoother Christmas for your child and your family.
1. Manage expectations
Children with ADHD often thrive when they know what to expect. Clearly explaining the plans for the day—from opening presents to visiting relatives—can help reduce their anxiety and make them feel more in control. Creating a visual schedule or writing down the itinerary provides a tangible reference, adding predictability and structure to their day.
While it’s important to stay flexible for any unexpected changes, having a clear plan can make all the difference in keeping things calm and enjoyable.
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2. Praise good behavior
Positive reinforcement goes a long way for kids with ADHD. Be specific when praising their efforts: “You did a great job waiting your turn to open presents!” Recognizing their successes, even small ones, can boost their confidence and encourage continued good behavior.
For more ideas to calm excited children, check out Ideas to calm over excited children on christmas eve.
3. Play board games
Board games are a fantastic way to engage your child in structured play while promoting turn-taking and focus. Choose games with simple rules and a holiday twist, like Christmas Bingo. Keep sessions short to avoid frustration, and celebrate their participation, regardless of who wins.
What You’ll Need:
How to Play:
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4. Play balloon games
Balloon games are a great way to release energy indoors. Simple activities like keeping a balloon in the air or playing balloon volleyball can burn off excess energy without causing chaos. These games are fun, low-pressure, and easy to set up, making them perfect for busy holiday days. For more fun family activities, explore new years eve activities for kids at home.
5. Practice social skills
Use the holidays as an opportunity to practice important social skills, like greeting relatives, saying thank you, or sharing toys with siblings or cousins. Role-playing scenarios in advance can help your child feel more comfortable in social situations. Praise their efforts to reinforce positive interactions.
6. Practice mindfulness
Introduce your child to mindfulness techniques to help them manage holiday stress. Simple practices like deep breathing, counting to 10, or imagining a calm Christmas scene (like a snow-covered forest) can help them feel more grounded during busy moments.
For example, guide them through a calming exercise inspired by the story “Hello! I’m Rudolph.” As you read this inspiring tale about celebrating differences and discovering the true value of Christmas, ask your child to take “Hot Cocoa Breaths.”
Encourage them to pretend they’re holding a warm cup of cocoa: inhale deeply to “smell” it, then exhale slowly to “cool” it. Repeat this 5–10 times as you share Rudolph’s story, helping them feel calm, focused, and connected to the magic of the season.
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7. Offer healthy snacks
Holiday treats are everywhere, but balancing them with healthy snacks can stabilize energy levels. Offer snacks like cheese and crackers, fruit skewers, or veggie sticks with hummus. These options help prevent sugar crashes and keep your child feeling their best.
For a peaceful transition, check out new year's affirmations for kids to incorporate calming thoughts into their day.
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8. Encourage movement
Physical activity is crucial for kids with ADHD, especially during the excitement of Christmas. Encourage movement with activities like dancing to holiday music, taking a family walk to see Christmas lights, or even a quick game of tag in the backyard. Regular bursts of activity help them stay focused and calm. For ideas on staying active while enjoying the holiday season, check out christmas morning routines for kids.
9. Pick small events
Large gatherings or crowded events can be overwhelming. Opt for smaller, more intimate celebrations where your child can interact at their own pace. If larger events are unavoidable, have a plan for breaks, such as a quiet room where they can retreat if things get overwhelming.
10. Simplify decorations
Bright lights, loud music, and over-the-top decorations can be overstimulating. Keep your home festive but simple. Opt for soft lighting, fewer decorations, and a clutter-free environment to create a calming holiday atmosphere for your child.
11. Enjoy the outdoors
Spending time outside is an excellent way to burn off energy and reduce sensory overload. Go for a nature walk, build a snowman, or have a snowball fight. Fresh air and movement can help regulate your child’s mood and provide a break from indoor holiday chaos. For more holiday tips and tricks, explore tips for a stress-free christmas morning.
Why is Christmas hard for ADHD?
Christmas can be challenging for kids with ADHD because of the season’s unpredictable routines, heightened sensory stimuli, and social demands.
The excitement of presents, parties, and new environments can lead to overstimulation, while the lack of structure can make it harder for them to manage their emotions and energy. Preparing ahead with clear plans and sensory-friendly activities can help reduce these challenges.
What is the best parenting style for ADHD during Christmas?
The best approach combines warmth, structure, and flexibility. Be patient and understanding of your child’s needs, but set clear boundaries to maintain balance.
Use positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors and keep routines as consistent as possible. Flexibility is also key—be willing to adjust plans if your child becomes overwhelmed or needs a break.
How can I reduce sensory overload during Christmas celebrations?
Written By
Entrepreneur mum. I created Storybook: Bedtime Stories the #1 app in over 90 countries. I have been able to help families with the app and through my social media influence. I also created a Facebook group with over 12,000 moms where we support each other.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Lorena Koppel is a distinguished Child Clinical Psychologist based in Azuay, Ecuador, with over 26 years of experience at Monte Sinaí Hospital. She specializes in treating emotional disorders in children and adolescents, providing family counseling, and integrating theoretical and practical approaches in clinical psychology.
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