Winter: Some Thoughts and Guidance from the Curiosity Team

Tips for the season of newness, expectations, and endless parties

We’re entering the festive season, which brings with it so many expectations (our own, our children’s and our wider circles), so many new experiences or activities which are surprising, confusing or just exhausting for all.

If you’re worried about navigating these with your families, please keep reading - the team have collated some tips which may be relevant and helpful for you.

• Consider how many elements of a day “change” during the festive season. Keep some anchors - keep some food the same, such as their packed lunch or breakfast. Try not to sneak in the extra mince pie or gold coin; it seems like a treat, but can accumulate to overwhelm.

• The Elf of the Shelf might feel too unpredictable for some kids. Its cheeky ways can spark diligence (and if you don’t enjoy thinking of each mischievous pose, it can quickly drain your parental energy before we even get to Christmas).

• Father Christmas. If your child has a trauma history that you are not fully aware of, just pause and have a think about the concept of him. Someone who nobody sees, coming into the house at night, with all of the judgement of good and bad. Create a version and story that psychologically conveys safety and joy.

• Give school their own “Christmas List”. Rather than waiting for them to (potentially) tell you what is happening. Give them a list of things they can refer to with the changes that may spark dysregulation. Christmas Jumper Day, making Christmas cards for Mum/Dad, Christmas Dinner Day, Christmas party day.

Keep expectation low and acceptance high.

Be selective about which events you really need to go to.

Less is more.