Egg-citing Easter-Tips for parents with highly sensitive children

As the Easter holidays approach, it’s an exciting time for families, filled with joy, activities, and the opportunity for quality time together. However, for parents, it can also bring the challenge of managing disruptions to routine that may leave children feeling dysregulated. Here at Calm Together, we understand the importance of nurturing calm and happiness within your family, especially during holiday periods. To support you through the Easter holidays, we’ve put together some thoughtful advice and activities that align with our ethos of mindfulness, connection, and well-being.

Low-Cost, No-Cost Activities Easter doesn’t have to be expensive to be memorable. Embrace the beauty of simple, low-cost, or no-cost activities that bring joy and calm. Here are a few ideas:

• Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of spring-themed items to find in your local park or garden.
• Easter Crafts: Use recycled materials to make Easter decorations, fostering creativity and mindfulness.
• Story Time: Visit your local library and choose books together, focusing on themes of renewal and spring.
• Mindful Baking: Engage in baking simple recipes together, a wonderful way to connect and create mindful moments.

Managing Meltdowns Holidays can sometimes lead to sensory overload and emotional meltdowns. If your child becomes overwhelmed, remember the power of presence. Sit with them, offer a hug or a quiet space to calm down. Acknowledge their feelings and gently guide them through breathing exercises or use calming techniques you’ve practiced together.

Preparing for Change

Children thrive on routine, and holidays can disrupt this sense of normality, leading to feelings of dysregulation. Start by creating an “Easter Plan” together with your child. Discuss any changes that will happen over the holidays, such as going to childcare, visiting relatives, or staying at home. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce anxiety and help your child feel more secure.

Discuss any upcoming changes in routine or environment before they happen. This preparation can help reduce anxiety about the unknown. Use visual aids like calendars or storyboards to explain what will happen and when.

If your child will be attending childcare during the Easter break, preparation is key. Together, find out what activities the childcare provider has planned, who will be there, and any other details that can make the transition smoother. Familiarizing your child with what to expect can help alleviate any worries and make them feel more comfortable about the change.

Keep some routine

Even though the holidays can disrupt daily schedules, try to keep some elements of your child’s routine intact. This could include regular meal times, bedtimes, and quiet times. Maintaining a routine provides a sense of security and predictability, which is comforting to highly sensitive children.

Engage in Calm, Low-Stimulation Activities

Choose activities that align with your child’s interests but are low in sensory stimulation. Nature walks, quiet craft time, or reading together can be excellent options. These activities offer engagement without overwhelming the senses.

Incorporate Polyvagal Theory Practices

The polyvagal theory, developed by Stephen W. Porges, emphasizes the importance of the body’s vagal responses in emotion regulation and social connection. Practices that stimulate the vagus nerve, such as deep breathing exercises, gentle singing, and even soft rocking, can help calm the nervous system. These can be particularly beneficial for highly sensitive children, promoting a sense of calm and safety.

Plan for Downtime

Ensure there are plenty of opportunities for rest and downtime. Highly sensitive children need time to process their experiences and recharge. Quiet time is not only restorative but also essential for emotional regulation.

Creating a balanced, mindful approach to the Easter holidays can help ensure that this time is as joyful and calm as possible for your child. By planning together, embracing simple joys, and being prepared for the unexpected, you can nurture a sense of security and happiness in your child, making the Easter break a memorable and peaceful time for your family.

Remember, at Calm Together, we’re here to support you in fostering a calm, connected, and mindful family life. Wishing you a serene and joyful Easter holiday

References

• Aron, E. N. (2002). The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When the World Overwhelms Them. HarperCollins. This book provides foundational knowledge about the trait of high sensitivity in children and practical advice for parents and educators.
• Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation. W.W. Norton & Company. Porges’ work offers insight into how the nervous system influences our social behaviors and emotional regulation, providing a scientific basis for understanding sensitivity and stress responses.