4 Ways to avoid toddler tantrums on Christmas day

Christmas day can be a very stressful time for families. Even adults can feel overwhelmed, so it’s not surprising that toddlers can as well.

Check out these four tips from Joanne Mallon, author of Toddlers: An Instruction Manual, on how to handle the inevitable Christmas day meltdown.

1. Expect the unexpected

During Christmas day, your usual family schedule may be all over the place, so it’s important to expect the unexcepted. Many young children do not react well to change, and as toddlers, they will let you know. Try to stick to your toddler’s regular meal and nap times at the very least. But don’t blame yourself if things go wrong.

2. Don’t let your toddler open all of their Christmas presents at once

Many parents enjoy the ‘wow’ factor of a large pile of stuff, but this can be very overwhelming for small children. Spread it out over a few days. Don’t be surprised if your child is more interested in the cardboard box a toy came in than the toy you paid a fortune for.

3. Anticipate tantrums before they occur

If you know Christmas lunch will be served during naptime, or if Granny’s house is full of breakables, plan ahead of time. Change the mealtime, feed your child earlier, or do a sweep beforehand for toddler-unfriendly items. Plan a solution rather than complaining about the problem, and you will be one step ahead of the game.

4. Don’t be a mummy martyr

Accept offers of assistance, and if they aren’t forthcoming, ask for them. Don’t end up cooking dinner and childminding while helping your child unwrap presents. At that rate, you’ll end up having your own tantrum.

If all else fails, remember that Christmas day isn’t that long, and things will return to normal by tomorrow. In the long run, you’ll remember the good times and laugh at the rest. Toddlers can be adorable, loving, and joyful little people, and if given the opportunity, they can help make Christmas day as special as they are.