Blog: How to Enjoy the Holiday Season During the Covid-19 Pandemic

With the holiday season in full swing during the continued Covid-19 pandemic, it can be a challenging time for both children and adults. Here are some tips for making the most of this holiday season, along with a video explaining things in more detail from a talking dog who illustrates these strategies based on her own experiences in an entertaining manner.

SJ the dog:

Tips:

1. Maintain typical traditions as much as feasible based on what is safe to do. Having at least some consistency and sense of normalcy can go a long way in having a more positive holiday experience.
2. Create virtual versions of traditions when possible if the in-person version is not an option. In addition, use this as an opportunity to develop new ones and expand the circle of family and friends that you share the holidays with through virtual connections. For example,  do Christmas with both sides of the family (if they get along over Zoom), more extended family, friends who live far away, etc. Consider a New Years Eve virtual game night party with family members or friends from across the country or world (and counting down to New Years gets more interesting when people are in different time zones).
3. Accept that this holiday season is going to be different, and hopefully by next year’s holiday season, things will be more normal.

Happy Holidays!

Copyright 2020 Carey Heller, Psy.D.

*Disclaimer: The previous information is intended as general guidance based on my professional opinion, does not constitute an established professional relationship,  and should not replace the recommendations of a psychologist or other licensed professional with whom you initiate or maintain a professional relationship*

About Carey Heller, Psy.D.

Dr. Carey Heller is the author of the blog Practical Parenting Strategies. He is a licensed psychologist with The Heller Psychology Group LLC in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Heller specializes in the evaluation and treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), executive function challenges, learning disabilities, and co-occurring issues such as anxiety. With treatment, he often blends traditional psychotherapy with practical coaching to help individuals improve time management, organizational, and related study skills as relevant.

View all posts by Carey Heller, Psy.D.