The holiday season can bring anxiety for many children, but there are ways parents can help them build resilience. (Illustration by Milton Klingensmith, Advance Local)Illustration by Milton Klingensmith, Advance Local
By Dr. Erica Weiler-Timmins
For many, the holidays evoke a mix of joy and celebration—it can be a time to rest and reset with a new year soon to come. But for others—especially children coping with the absence of loved ones, family instability, or food insecurity—this time of year can amplify feelings of distress and sadness. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five children between the ages of 3-17 experience a mental health disorder, and no amount of holiday cheer can overcome these complexities.
To support struggling children, we need to have both a greater awareness of the challenges they face and help them develop resilience to navigate difficult situations. Resilience is a crucial component of success both academically and socially. According to the American Psychological Association, children who possess resilience are better able to cope with stress, perform well in school, and maintain healthier relationships. Given the increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among youth—highlighted by the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey—addressing resilience in our youth has never been more urgent.
During this holiday season, families and communities alike have a unique opportunity to support children in recognizing and managing their emotions. Here are five ways, as adults, that we can build emotional resilience in children:
1) Acknowledge and name emotions. Children often experience complex feelings but may lack the vocabulary to express them. Encouraging open dialogue about emotions—whether sadness, anxiety, or joy—can enable children to process their experiences more effectively.
2) Develop healthy coping strategies. A study published in the Journal of School Psychology found that mindfulness practices reduced anxiety in children by nearly 40%. Activities such as journaling and physical exercise have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall emotional well-being. Skip the screen time and encourage children to get outside to play and connect with others.
3) Create structure through an established routine. The holidays can disrupt patterns, leading to confusion and uncertainty for younger kids. Families can enhance resilience by establishing daily routines, such as shared family meals, bedtime rituals, or regular check-ins. Children who thrive in structured environments are more likely to develop resilience, as routines provide a sense of security and predictability, which can be comforting.
4) Showcase resilient behavior. Children learn by observing the adults in their lives. As parents and caregivers, it is important to model resilience by acknowledging struggles and demonstrating healthy coping strategies. Children who see their parents and guardians managing stress and hardships effectively are more likely to adopt similar strategies. This openness creates a safe environment for children to express their feelings and seek help when needed.
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5) Strengthen community connections. According to a report by the Child Mind Institute, children with strong support systems are more likely to bounce back from adversity. Resilience cannot be created in isolation. Strong relationships with family, friends, and community members are essential. Encouraging children to maintain connections with their support network—through in-person interactions or even virtual calls—can significantly enhance their ability to cope with stress.
As we embrace the holiday season, let’s remember that emotional resilience is a skill we can all nurture in our children. By acknowledging feelings, developing healthy habits, and fostering strong bonds, we can create a supportive environment where young people flourish—even during life’s most challenging moments. Together, we can cultivate an environment that prioritizes mental health and equips our youth with the skills they need to thrive. Be the one who makes a difference in a child’s life.
Dr. Erica Weiler-Timmins is the senior director of student health services at Milton Hershey School.
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