Yes, You Can Have a Healthy, Happy Holiday Season!

Family gatherings, gift giving, gingerbread and spice....why can't it always be nice?

The media often portray the holiday season as trouble free and festive. But family problems may escalate when then season arrives. The reality of the holidays, much like life, is that real people and families are not perfect and that life can be really stressful.

Holiday Celebration Tips for Families:

• Do your best to stick to your regular family routine. Changing your schedule to fit in holiday activities and traveling can be tough on you and your kids, so try to keep things as normal as possible.
• Talk with your family about schedules. Take time to explain each day's activities to your children and let them know what you expect from them.
• Talk with your family about finances. Even young hildren can learn how to budget for gifts. Urge them to get creative and make presents for family members instead of buying them.
• Plan quiet time or at least downtime from activities.
• Carving out a few hours to volunteer at a charity might seem impossible but giving your time and energy may help you find the spirit of the season.

In the craziness and stress that the holidays sometimes bring, don't forget that the smallest compliment or unexpected words of encouragement can make the world of difference to your child, no matter what the age. "I love you", "We'll work it out together", or "Wow, that was a really good idea" will make anyone feel loved, supported and acknowledged.

While the holiday season is certainly a time to celebrate, it's also a time of increased drugs and alcohol. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, at least 50 percent of all deadly car crashes that take place during the holiday season involve alcohol. Your children are often more exposed to substance abuse during the holidays - whether it's a friend or family member who drinks too much during your holiday dinner or your teen's friend who offers pot at a New Year's Eve party. During this time, it is especially important for parents to keep their children safe and to talk frankly and honestly about the dangers and consequences of drug and alcohol use.

Talking with your children about drugs and alcohol during the holidays:

• Let your child know what you expect. Tell your child that adults may be drinking during the holidays but under no circumstances is (s)he allowed to drink alcohol.
• At your holiday gatherings, offer plenty of nonalcoholic foods, drinks, and activities.
• To lower the risk of alcohol poisoning, be sure to throw out partly empty alcoholic drinks. Children love to imitate adults, and if they have access to leftover drinks, they may taste the contents.
• Have a plan in place about what you and your family will do if you are at a party where there are people who have had too much to drink.
• Model responsible behavior by making sure that guests who have been drinking do not drive.
• If your older child is going to a holiday event, call ahead to make sure the event will be alcohol and drug free. Check in with parents to see what measures are in place to keep alcohol and other drugs out.
  

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!