When visiting relatives we hadn’t seen in a while, my 2-year-old son, Will, clung to my hand as family members welcomed him with questions, sincerely interested in his activities during the previous year. I had not anticipated that he and I both would feel such pressure.
For the next Christmas gathering, I was better prepared — and so was Will. A day before, we gathered artwork and toys he wanted to show his relatives. We discussed who was going to be there, rehearsing answers to simple questions family members might ask. When we arrived, I allowed Will to stay by my side until he felt comfortable. These simple steps prepared us both for an enjoyable holiday celebration.
This article first appeared in the December 2011 issue of Thriving Family magazine. Copyright © 2011 by Christine Hoover. Used by permission. ThrivingFamily.com.