December Self-Regulation Strategies for Young Children, Families, and Educators

December is a joyful month—but it can also be overwhelming for children, families, and educators.
​Holiday events, changing schedules, extra sensory stimulation, and increased demands at home can all impact a child’s ability to stay regulated. And we adults often feel this strain just as strongly.

This season offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen self-regulation skills through simple, intentional practices. Here are three strategies you can use at home or in early childhood settings to support emotional well-being all month long.

1. Use Calendars, Lists, and Countdown Activities

December's happenings can quickly disrupt even the most carefully-planned predictable routines.

​Children sense the excitement as soon as holiday decorations appear or the calendar flips to December—and that anticipation can make it harder for them to contain themselves.

Just as adults rely on calendars, reminders, and lists, children benefit from age-appropriate versions of those same tools:

• Countdown calendars for special events like programs, parties, or family travel
• Classroom calendars that show which days are school days
• Practical calendar group times, using it to remind children of upcoming events  
• Center-time calendar exploration, giving children a hands-on way to count “how many days until ___?” 
  
• Share simple lists that you use to track the things you need to do

These tools help children understand what is coming next and give them a sense of control—an essential ingredient for self-regulation. Adults often experience the same relief from organization and planning - I know I do!

2. Create Comfort When Holiday Excitement Becomes Overwhelm

December holidays bring a wave of sensory input: bright lights, new smells, music, crowds, and special events. For some children, these can be overwhelming.

Even positive excitement can become dysregulating when routines shift or expectations change.

Try offering children (and yourself!) calming strategies such as:

• Snuggling or making a blanket burrito
• Reading familiar stories aloud
• Taking a quiet walk or drive to see holiday lights
• Bringing a comfort item when traveling
• Practicing deep breathing—like pretending to blow on hot cocoa
• Introducing simple spiritual or cultural traditions in child-friendly ways
• Using sensory supports like homemade playdough or soft comfort toys
• Watching calming, predictable videos such as our “eepworm” story times

Above all, be aware of sensory overload. When lights, smells, noise, or crowds become too much, take a break. A few minutes of calm can make the rest of the day more enjoyable.

3. Find Balance Through Nature and Seasonal Activities

Nature is one of the most effective (and accessible!) tools for reducing stress.

​Even during busy holiday weeks, children and adults benefit from time spent moving, exploring, and observing the winter season.

Try these nature-based ideas:

• Take a hike or neighborhood walk
• Play in leaf piles or explore outdoor free play
• Practice putting on sweaters, jackets, and winter gear
• Go on a fall/winter scavenger hunt
• Plant bulbs or a tree as a family or classroom project
• Visit a winter market or local festival
• Make pinecone birdfeeders with peanut butter and birdseed

These activities help families and classrooms shift the focus from holiday hype to simple, meaningful experiences that restore balance and well-being.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season is full of joy—but it also brings challenges for children and adults alike. By incorporating predictability, comfort, and nature-based balance, you can help children (and yourself!) navigate December with more confidence, calm, and connection.

I’d love to hear what strategies you use at home or in your early learning program. Let a comment to share your ideas!

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References & Resources

American Psychological Association. (2020). Nurtured by nature. www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature

American Psychological Association. Managing holiday stress. www.apa.org/topics/parenting/holiday

Eepworm. (2020, May 18). We Read - My Friend EEPWORM [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zG-uDNkNYrg&t=3s

Eepworm. (2021, Jul 5). We Read - EEPWORM's Emotional Day [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRSPaAr9vS4&t=52s