1. Holidays can trigger grief and overwhelm for kids with trauma.
2. Preparing the extended family reduces misunderstandings.
3. Intentional support creates safer, more connected celebrations.
This resource is part of “All is Not Calm: Supporting Your Child During the Hectic Holiday Season” Holiday Training. If you would like to learn more about this training or any of other trainings. Click Here.
Trauma-Responsive Holidays: Preparing Extended Family for Connection and Care
Adolescence is a time of change, and trauma can intensify every challenge. Teens may struggle with emotions, relationships, and self-identity, and even well-meaning adults can unintentionally disrupt connection. This course gives you the knowledge to understand the adolescent brain, recognize common misconceptions, and respond in ways that foster trust, resilience, and healthy development.
Why This Matters
For many, the holidays are a season of joy, but for children with trauma histories, they can be a time when hidden grief and triggers resurface They may feel nervous meeting new people, struggle with unfamiliar foods, or become overstimulated by the noise and activity of holiday events. Extended family members, while well-meaning, might not always understand how trauma can show up in behaviors like selective eating, withdrawal, or emotional “meltdowns”.
Preparing our family members in advance with what they can expect and offering a compassionate way to explain what these behaviors might mean can go a long way towards equipping them to help create a supportive environment.
- Simple explanations of how trauma impacts holiday behaviors.
- Practical strategies for extended family, like offering breaks or sticking to routines.
- Encouraging language to foster understanding and empathy.
Why This Matters
With some intentional preparation, the holidays can be a time of connection and healing for everyone. When families and relatives work together to meet the needs of children impacted by foster care and adoption, it provides ways for more people to support your child on their healing journey. For more information about how to support your children during the holidays read this guest blog by Dr. John DeGarmo: “Navigating Foster Care During The Holidays“
1. Pencil and printed handout
2. Open hearts and listening ears
3. A snack to fuel ideas
All is Not Calm: Support During The Holidays
ConnectionPlus is here to help your family not just survive the holiday season, but thrive in it.
