TIP of the WEEK: The Christmas Countdown

December 19, 2014

For any parent, this week is stressful. For the parent of a child with PWS, it can be next to impossible without the right supports in place. Here are some tips to survive the holidays:

1. Take time for yourself. You will not be any use to anyone if you don’t take care of our own needs. Eat right, sleep enough and slow down in general.

2. Allow for imperfection. Give yourself permission to make mistakes, to downgrade your plans and to delegate responsibilities.

3. It’s okay to let people down. If you accepted plans to attend a party and things have not gone as planned, or at the last minute the thought of going is about as appealing as a root canal, don’t go. It really is a simple as it sounds.

4. Keep it simple. You may typically celebrate the holidays with a large extended family but if that will cause your child (and in turn, you) high amounts of anxiety, then plan for a small celebration at home with immediate family members.

While your idea of a perfect holiday celebration may involve lots of gatherings, food, and family, your reality may be very different. If you can learn to accept your new reality, then you are on the way to making new, beautiful traditions that may be different but still joyous and full of love.

Happy Holidays to you and your family. You are perfect just the way you are!

Patrice Carroll
Manager of PWS Services