The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and festive cheer, but for parents, it can also mean a never-ending to-do list that sometimes sidelines health. Between the late nights, event planning, shopping, and creating memories for the family, keeping everyone healthy can easily get overlooked.
Holiday Survival Guide for Parents: Prioritising Health & Well-Being
Here’s your holiday wellness guide with tips to keep the whole family feeling well and make the season a little easier to navigate.
1. Keep Sleep on Track (Even with Holiday Excitement)
With all the festivities, late-night preparations, and routine disruptions, sleep often takes a hit. Good sleep is vital for immunity, particularly for kids, so try to stick to a consistent sleep routine as best you can.
Tip: Aim for regular sleep and wake times, even if bedtimes are a tad later. The CDC recommends 9–12 hours of sleep for younger children and 8–10 hours for teens. A well-rested family is more likely to embrace the holiday fun!
2. Balance Festive Treats with Hydration and Mindful Eating
An abundance of treats is one of the joys (and challenges) of the season. Enjoy the indulgence, but try to balance it with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and hydration to keep everyone’s energy levels up.
Tip: Take reusable water bottles along on outings, and encourage everyone to take sips throughout the day to stay hydrated. The CDC suggests aiming for eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily to stay hydrated (CDC).
3. Keep Up-to-Date with Flu Jabs and Medication
With holiday travel and gatherings, exposure to germs can increase, so make sure vaccinations are up-to-date. Also, don’t overlook regular medication—ensure prescriptions are filled and ready for any trips. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, flu vaccines are recommended for children over six months old to help reduce the spread of influenza. Ensure your family’s vaccinations are current and pack enough prescription medications for any trips.
Tip: Personal medical record apps like KeepTrackMed Health Record App help you set reminders for medications, track doses, and stay on top of refill schedules. Upload photos of prescription labels so all your info is handy when traveling.
4. Boost Immunity with Healthy Snacks and Outdoor Fun
Support your family’s immune systems with Healthy snacks like yogurt, high in probiotics, and mandarin oranges, rich in vitamin C, which can strengthen the immune system (National Institutes of Health). Also, engaging in outdoor play or family walks can lift spirits and maintain fitness.
Tip: Personal medical record apps can track symptoms, so you can monitor any colds and know when to seek advice if needed.
5. Manage Stress for Yourself and the Kids
Holiday stress can impact everyone, especially when trying to juggle everything. Take breaks, simplify plans, and remember it’s okay to decline invitations. Encourage family relaxation with movie nights or simple holiday crafts.
Tip: If you notice signs of stress in your kids – like changes in appetite or mood—adjust your plans to create a calm, relaxed holiday environment. For younger children, calming activities like coloring or reading a favorite story can help. Older kids might benefit from a quiet moment or simple breathing exercises (American Psychological Association).
6. Prepare for Health Needs While Travelling
Traveling can sometimes be unpredictable, so pack a basic first aid kit, bring any required medications in carry-on luggage, and keep health insurance information on hand.
Tip: Have important health documents, such as immunization records, allergies, and medical histories uploaded on a Medical app so you’re well-prepared if a health concern arises on the go.
A Joyful, Healthy Season Ahead
By making health a priority, you’ll not only enjoy the holidays more but also create lasting memories with less stress. Simple steps like staying hydrated, managing stress, and keeping to routines can make a real difference.
About The Author:
Stacey Smith is a freelance health writer. She is passionate about writing about women’s health, dental health, diabetes, endocrinology, and nutrition and provides in-depth features on the latest in health news for medical clinics and health magazines.
