How to Keep Your Kids from Going Feral During the Holidays

In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it's easy for children to let their guard down and behave in ways that seem almost feral. However, with the right approach, you can steer them towards responsible and respectful behavior. Start by emphasizing the importance of respect from a young age. Here are some valuable tips and strategies to help you maintain control and ensure your children stay on track during the holidays.

Set Clear Expectations and Rules

Throughout the year, it's crucial to maintain consistent rules and discipline for your children, regardless of whether they're in school or not. This consistency is key in teaching them about respect and responsibility. When they understand that the rules are non-negotiable, they are more likely to behave well, even during the holiday break.

Engage Them in Appropriate Activities

During the holidays, it's essential to keep the kids engaged in activities that promote healthy development. This can range from joining clubs or participating in sports to taking music lessons or other forms of structured learning. Avoid letting them sit idly watching TV all day, and if you do allow some screen time, make sure it's balanced with other activities. Showing a genuine interest in their hobbies and praising their efforts will go a long way in reinforcing positive behavior.

Assigning them homework and then sending them outside to play without their gadgets can also be a great way to keep them active and engaged. Encourage them to explore their interests and pursue activities that they truly enjoy.

Establish and Maintain Consistency

To keep your kids from going feral, it's important to establish and maintain consistent routines. This includes a consistent bedtime, providing them with fruits and vegetables every day, and incorporating active play into their daily schedule. By ensuring these habits are consistently followed, you are helping them develop good habits that will serve them well in the long run.

Remember, by training your children to be respectful and responsible from a young age, you are setting them up for success in all aspects of their lives.

Putting It All Together

The core message is clear: the key to keeping your kids from going feral during the holidays is to teach them respect, engage them in appropriate activities, and maintain consistent routines. By focusing on these areas, you can ensure a happy and productive holiday season for everyone in the family.