The holiday season can be stressful for anyone, but especially for military kids. Whether it’s being separated from family or getting the perfect gifts for your family, those stressors are valid. Check out these stress management tips for military kids during the holiday season.

Maintain traditions or start new ones

Military youth may face a lot of uncertainty during the holiday season, and it may seem hard for them to stay grounded among the stress. To keep things consistent, be sure to maintain traditions with your friends and families during the holiday season! This can provide youth with a sense of community and continuity.

If you’re an older youth and are looking for ways to shake up the holidays (within reason, not Home Alone style), consider looking for new traditions for you and your family to enjoy. Check out this post from Parents to get some ideas for you and your family. 

Stay active

Staying active is a key role in improving mental health during any time of the year, but can prove to be difficult during the colder months. By participating in physical activity or exercise, your body releases endorphins that improves mood and emotions. It might be hard for youth to find the opportunity to prioritize physical activity during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. This article by the CDC dives into ways to remain healthy and active during the holidays.

Look into ways to volunteer and give back

It’s easy to get caught up in your own holiday responsibilities, but a good way for youth to reduce their stress is by volunteering and giving back. Whether it’s a local, regional, or state level event, volunteering not only gives youth a sense of purpose but also benefits those the volunteerism is directed toward. Look into local volunteer opportunities or find state-wide events. Homeless shelters, food banks, and dog shelters are just a few of the organizations that need help more than ever during this time of year.

Practice mindfulness

The holidays are a fast paced time of the year, and it can seem like things are moving at the speed of light. One way for youth to remain grounded and in the moment is through the use of mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware and in the moment via your thoughts and emotions. This is an intentional form of meditation that can help kids feel less overwhelmed during this busy season.

Check out these mindfulness exercises for kids from Waterford that are easy to implement during the holiday season.