Christmas is often hailed as the most magical time of the year. Like many, I’ve always cherished the festive season, filled with the sparkle of decorations, joyful parties, advent calendars, and delicious treats. Growing up, it was a whirlwind of excitement and warmth.
However, through my experience working in a primary school nurture room with children who have special educational needs (SEN) and anxiety, I've come to recognize that the holiday season can be quite overwhelming for some. While it's commonly accepted that Christmas can be stressful for adults, it’s often overlooked just how much anxiety it can trigger for children. The anticipation of family gatherings, meeting relatives they haven’t seen in months, or even the thought of Santa entering their home at night can be incredibly stressful, especially for younger or more sensitive children.
In fact, my daughter’s primary school made a conscious effort to delay sending Christmas cards and kept festivities low-key until the very last week of term. At first glance, this might seem a bit “Bah Humbug,” but the intention was to prevent overstimulation and maintain as much routine as possible—a vital approach for children who struggle with anxiety or have special needs. The sudden change in routine and sensory overload can be significant triggers for them.
In our nurture room, a colleague and I put together Christmas "survival kits" for our children to take home over the holidays. These kits included a visual calendar marking the holiday days, with a clear indication of when school would resume, helping to alleviate anxiety around the unknown. We also added some fun and calming activities, along with mindfulness exercises with a Christmas theme. The idea was to create moments of calm where children could retreat from the hustle and bustle, finding a bit of peace during a typically chaotic time.
One of my colleague’s most impactful ideas was to include small affirmation cards for some of our more anxious students. These cards became a source of comfort, as children were seen clutching them when they returned to school after the break. For many, the transition back to the structure of school after the holidays can be as challenging as the holiday season itself.
We also encouraged parents to take simple, yet effective steps to support their children's well-being. Spending time outdoors is incredibly grounding; even a brisk walk to the park can do wonders to alleviate stress. Additionally, we advised families to plan holiday activities and visits with their children in advance, helping them mentally prepare for what’s to come. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce anxiety levels, particularly for children who thrive on routine.
When planning visits to extended family or friends, it can be beneficial to set clear expectations for how long you'll stay and bring along some quiet activities to keep children engaged. This way, they have an outlet to retreat if they begin to feel overwhelmed.
It's also important to remember that as parents, taking care of your own mental health is just as crucial. The pressure to create a “perfect Christmas”—often fuelled by social media—can inadvertently create a tense atmosphere, which children are quick to pick up on. Striving for perfection is not only unattainable but can also amplify stress for the entire family. A more relaxed and realistic approach to the holidays can help everyone enjoy the season more fully.
At Fresh Start, we work with children from diverse backgrounds and varying living situations, providing tailored support during the build-up to Christmas. Our Education Specialists understand that this time of year can be particularly difficult for children in residential care or with foster families, who may not be spending the holiday with their biological families. For these children, the emotional weight of the season can be heavy, and our goal is to offer comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging, even when circumstances are less than ideal.
Ultimately, a little planning, empathy, and understanding can make all the difference for children who struggle during the holidays. Let’s remember that the true magic of Christmas is found in the kindness, care, and compassion we extend to one another.
More support can be found on the resources below.
Kooth.com focuses on supporting young people with their mental health.
Call Samaritans - 116 123
Mind.org.uk 0300 102 1234
Text SHOUT to 85258
NHS 111
About the author
Jo brings a wealth of experience to her role as an Education Coordinator at Fresh Start, also holding holds a degree in Primary Education with History. With a background as a Primary School Teacher, she has spent many years specialising in Early Years education. Beyond the classroom, Jo has supported young children and their families through her work in children's centres. In recent years, she has taken on a pivotal role in Pastoral Care, serving as a SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) Champion.
