Emotional Regulation Around the Holidays – Strategies for a Calm, Connected Daycare

Tis’ the season for joy, crafts, and…emotional disregulation? Holidays can be filled up with joy, but this season of activities and busyness can also bring a plethora of other emotions, especially for little ones. Children can pick up on the increased speed of the adults around them, the possible stress that can accompany this time of year. Kids are often getting a bit less sleep due to parties or activities as well, which can certainly affected emotional regulation. This super helpful post will give you a ton of strategies for emotional regulation around the holidays so you can create a calm, connected daycare – one that benefits everyone!

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Regulation-Focused Tips for Educators & Operators

1. Keep Predictable Routines Wherever Possible

Children feel safest when they know what comes next.

• Try to keep meal times, nap/rest times, transitions, and outdoor time consistent each day.
• Small disruptions are okay—but anchor the day in familiar rhythms.

2. Provide a “Calm Corner” or Regulation Zone

A calm-down corner or area is a great place for children to calm down, take deep breaths, and get the quiet and space they need. You can read more about how to set up the perfect calming corner here.

• This space should be quiet, uncluttered, soft (think pillows, rugs, and cozy seating).
• Equip the area with regulation tools like books, sensory bottles, fidgets, and weighted items. Don’t forget to add a sensory glitter jar!
• Remember: it’s not a time-out. It’s a place for children to reset when overwhelmed.

3. Limit Overstimulating Décor

Pretty doesn’t always mean developmentally appropriate. Choose décor that is:

• Simple
• Stable (not dangling or flashing)
• Limited to one area
• At child-safe visibility

A regulated classroom environment supports regulated children.

4. Build in Extra Movement Breaks

Children’s bodies hold energy and stress. Incorporate some of the following ideas. Movement regulates the brain far better than talking.

• Dancing
• Yoga or stretching
• Jumping paths
• Outdoor play
• Gross motor circuits

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5. Keep Activities Simple and Success-Oriented

During overstimulating seasons, children need fewer steps, fewer materials, short bursts of activity, and clear instructions. Choose activities that help children feel competent, not overwhelmed. Check out these amazing yet simple emotional regulation holiday activities.

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6. Prepare Children for Changes in Advance

Predictability reduces anxiety. Preparing children in advance for transitions or next activities is extremely helping in emotional regulation. Use:

• Visual schedules
• Picture cues
• Social stories (e.g. “Today we will have a visitor…”)
• Verbal warnings (“Five more minutes, then lunch”)

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7. Co-Regulate Early and Often

Children borrow your calm. They are always watching, listening and learning. Educators can co-regulate by lowering their voice; sitting at the child’s level; breathing together; offering deep-pressure hugs (if consented); and narrating emotions (“I see your body is moving fast. Let’s slow down together.”) Regulation starts with regulated adults. Use our free emotion cards for extra support.

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8. Watch for Subtle Signs of Dysregulation

It’s important to always be on the early look-out for subtle signs of dysregulation. These cues mean the child needs support before a meltdown happens. Look for:

• Faster breathing
• Clenched fists
• Overly silly behaviour
• Crying more easily
• Hiding
• Avoiding activities

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9. Communicate with Families About Overload

Share gentle reminders with your daycare families so you are all on the same page. A regulated home environment supports a regulated classroom. Some important notes to discuss include:

• Maintaining consistent bedtimes
• Limiting sugary holiday treats before drop-off
• Bringing comfort items
• Avoiding rushed morning transitions

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Protecting Regulation Protects Joy

Holiday chaos doesn’t need to overwhelm children—or educators.

By prioritizing predictability, sensory balance, emotional connection, and calm environments,child care programs can help every child feel safe and joyful during the busiest season of the year.