Staying Safe This Holiday Season

After such a demanding year, the holiday season will be a welcome sight for many families. But like so many things, the holidays will look different in 2020 than they have in years past. One big question looms: how can I keep my friends and family safe during the celebrations?

According to the CDC, the safest way to celebrate the holidays this season is virtually. But for some people, especially children, this might not feel like enough. “The holidays are traditionally a time to come together with loved ones,” says Erica Lee, a psychologist at Boston Children’s Hospital. “If your kids are having a tough time adjusting to changes in your plans, let them know you understand and that you feel disappointed, too. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings and help them appreciate why things have to be different.”

Lee also encourages parents to think about how you can still do important holiday rituals, even if they have to look a little different this year. “Think about recreating what you’re used to doing in a way that’s safer during the pandemic but still allows you to create special memories,” Lee says. She also suggests creating new traditions, like taking turns hosting mini holiday celebrations online and sending each other care packages. PBS Kids has a list of over 30 activities to spread kindness during the holidays.

The holiday season will be different in 2020. We won’t be seeing all of our extended family and friends. We won’t be going to big celebrations in town. But by foregoing these things, we are reminded of the real reason for the season: spreading love and kindness by taking care of ourselves and each other.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season from the team at Youth Speak Out International!