· By Elizabeth Muncey
How to Turn Holiday Chaos Into Calm: 5 Gentle Routines That Really Work
The holidays are full of joy — but also noise, change, and sensory overload. For kids with ADHD, autism, or emotional sensitivities, that mix can quickly lead to overwhelm.
At Calm Solutions, we believe calm isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating small, predictable moments that make kids feel safe and supported. 🌿
Here are five gentle ways to bring calm back to your home this holiday season.
🎄 1. Start With a Predictable Morning Routine
A calm morning sets the tone for the whole day.
Use a simple visual schedule to show each step — breakfast, getting dressed, brushing teeth, and quiet play before leaving the house.
Visuals reduce verbal instructions (and power struggles) and help kids transition smoothly.
💡 Try this: The Calm Morning Visuals Collection includes printable charts and calm-down choice boards that make mornings peaceful and predictable.
🕊️ 2. Create a Calm Corner
Holidays mean excitement — and sometimes overstimulation.
Set up a “calm corner” with cozy textures, soft lighting, and your child’s favorite sensory tools.
Include emotion visuals or calm cards so kids can communicate how they feel without words.
🪴 Pro Tip: Add laminated visuals and velcro dots for easy swaps between calm activities.
🍽️ 3. Keep Routines Consistent (Even on Busy Days)
While the schedule might change, the rhythm doesn’t have to.
Keep mealtimes, quiet breaks, and bedtime routines close to your usual pattern.
This helps kids know what to expect, even when everything around them feels different.
👾 Bonus Tip: Use a fun tool like the Monster Pop-Up Chore Chart to keep routines engaging and independent — kids love seeing their “monsters” celebrate each completed task!
🌟 4. Build Emotional Check-Ins Into the Day
Ask simple questions like, “How’s your body feeling?” or “Do you need a calm break?”
Pair this with an emotion chart or calm choice board so kids can show rather than tell.
Over time, this helps them build self-awareness and confidence.
🎁 5. Celebrate Calm Moments (Not Just Behavior)
Instead of rewarding perfect days, celebrate calm efforts — deep breaths, kind choices, or asking for a break.
Reinforce progress, not perfection. 💛
These small celebrations create lasting confidence and emotional resilience.
🌿 Closing:
Calm doesn’t happen by chance — it’s built through rhythm, visuals, and connection.
This season, take it one calm step at a time.
If you’re ready to bring calm routines into your home, explore our Holiday Calm System and Monster Pop-Up Chore Chart — tools designed to make peace practical and joyful.