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M a n a g i n g   H o l i d a y   S t r e s s

Holidays can be a wonderful time for many families. However, they can also be stressful. Here are some tips on how to make the holidays a truly joyful time for you and your family.

• Understand that holidays can be stressful for everyone-even children. Children cope with excitement and emotions differently than adults.
• Create some family traditions. Children can better handle the fast pace of the holidays if they know what to expect. Young children don't fully understand the meaning of a holiday. Have each family member express what is important to them and what they enjoy during the holidays. Take some of these ideas and create a family tradition. Keep your plans simple to help your child understand what's happening and why.
• Prioritize your time. Remember that a change in routines can be especially hard on young children. Decide as a family what is important. Don't try to go to every party or meet everyone's demands on your time.
• Set reasonable expectations and limits. Don't make your children sit on Santa's lap, spend time with the family when they are feeling overwhelmed or stimulated, or stay up or eat at different times. Children can get frustrated when their routine changes, especially their eating and sleeping habits.
• Know your financial limit. Don't spend more on food, toys, or travel than you can afford. As a family, create a budget and work together to stick to that budget. Remember that often the best gift is your love and affection, not a toy or expensive gift! It is okay to tell your children that something is too expensive.
• Examine your own emotions. If you are tired, overwhelmed, or even sad, your children's emotions can be reflective of this as well. It is important to take care of yourself and your needs during this time as well.
  

Prepared by Dr. Ann Michelle Daniels, Family Life Specialist, SDSU.
Adapted from http://www.family.samhsa.gov/be/holidaystress.aspx and http://apahelcenter.org

Drop Side Cribs Recalled

               Delta Brand

              Simplicity Brand

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announcing the voluntary recall of drop side cribs.  Both models have been recalled due to serious entrapment and suffocation hazard to infants and toddlers.

Click here for more information on the Delta Brand recall.

Click here for more information on the Simplicity Brand recall.