A Peaceful Holiday Season for Sensitive Families
Ceara Deno, MD • December 19, 2024
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A Peaceful Holiday Season for Sensitive Families
The holidays are here, and with them come all the sparkling lights, festive gatherings, and magical moments we hope to create for our families.
But let’s be honest: for those of us who are more sensitive—the season can also bring pressure, overstimulation, and a nagging voice telling us to do more and make it perfect.
I want to offer you something different this year: permission to do less.
For families like ours, the magic of the season isn’t found in trying to do everything, or trying to make everything perfect.
It’s in the quiet moments—like a cozy snuggle on the couch, a quiet walk in the twilight, or sharing a laugh.
These little things are enough.
We don’t need to do or be everything.
Doing less is fine. Being imperfect is great.
Here are a few reminders to help you navigate the season with more ease and less overwhelm:
1. Lower Your Expectations
It’s okay to let go of the big, elaborate plans. If your child (or you!) is feeling overstimulated, scale back. Choose one or two activities that bring joy and let the rest go. Simplicity can be its own kind of magic.
2. Honor Sensitivities
Highly sensitive kids (and adults) feel everything more deeply, which can mean the holidays are both wonderful and a lot. Pay attention to when your family needs a break—whether that’s skipping an event, saying no to extra commitments, or creating quiet pockets of time to recharge.
3. Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Let go of the pressure for everything to be amazing or picture-perfect. Instead, embrace the little moments. Connection happens in the messiness of real life, not in picture-perfect moments.
4. Give Yourself Grace
You’re juggling so much, and you’re doing the best you can. It’s OK to let some things go. Your worth as a parent isn’t measured by how much you do.
5. Find Joy in the Little Things
Take time to slow down. Give yourself a break. Do something for yourself. Allow yourself to rest.
Sensitivity can create more overwhelm at the holidays.
Lowering the pressure you feel can help. So can simply trying to do less and to embrace imperfection.
Wishing you a lower stress and more joy-filled holidays.
Warmly,
Dr Ceara Deno
A compassionate look at the moments when a parent loves their child deeply but still feels a quiet distance--and the longing to find connection again.
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