When School Breaks Disrupt Everything: Supporting Kids’ Emotions During the Holidays

School breaks often come with the expectation that children will feel relaxed and happy, but many families notice the opposite once school is out. Changes in routine, later bedtimes, busy schedules, and increased stimulation can lead to more emotional reactions, sleep difficulties, and behavioral challenges. These responses are common during holiday breaks and do not indicate that a child is regressing or that something is wrong.

For many children, school provides consistency and predictability that help them feel safe and regulated. When that structure is removed, a child’s nervous system may struggle to adjust. This is especially true for children who experience anxiety, ADHD, sensory sensitivities, or difficulty with emotional regulation. Even positive changes can feel overwhelming when they happen all at once.

During holiday breaks, parents often notice increased irritability, emotional outbursts, trouble listening, difficulty falling or staying asleep, or a return of worries or fears that had seemed to improve. These changes can be concerning, particularly when a child had been doing well previously. It is important to understand that transitions often bring temporary regression as children work to adapt to new routines.

Behaviors that appear defiant or inattentive are often a child’s way of communicating discomfort, fatigue, or emotional overload. Children may not yet have the language to express that they feel overstimulated or uncertain, so their behaviors reflect what their nervous system is experiencing. Responding with curiosity and support rather than punishment can help children feel more understood during this time.

Support during school breaks does not require a strict schedule. Maintaining a few predictable anchors, such as consistent mealtimes or bedtime routines, can help restore a sense of safety. Lowering expectations, offering choices, and building in brief moments of connection or calming activities throughout the day can also support emotional regulation. Small, consistent supports often have a greater impact than trying to control every aspect of the day.

It is also important for parents to remember that school breaks do not undo progress. Increased emotions during transitions do not mean therapy is ineffective or that skills have been lost. With time, structure, and support, most children regain their footing and continue moving forward.

If your child seems more emotional, anxious, or dysregulated during break, you are not alone and support is available. Therapy can help children feel safe, understood, and regulated again as routines shift. If you would like support during or after the holidays, Inner Healing Therapy is here to help. You do not have to figure this out alone.