Supporting Children Through Post-Holiday Behaviour Changes: Practical Strategies for Calm and Connection
Returning to school and daily routines after the holiday break can be a big adjustment for children. Many parents notice shifts in behaviour — more irritability, meltdowns, or resistance to routines. Understanding these behaviour changes after holidays and responding with calm, supportive strategies can help children regulate emotions, build resilience, and transition smoothly back into everyday life.
Why Children Experience Behaviour Changes Post-Holiday
Children often experience behaviour changes post-holiday due to disrupted routines, overstimulation from travel and social events, adjusting to school or structured routines, and processing excitement or separation anxiety. These are normal adjustment behaviours — opportunities for parents to guide children in developing resilience and self-regulation skills.
Common Post-Holiday Behaviour Patterns
Mood swings or increased sensitivity
Resistance to school, bedtime, or homework routines
Clinginess or seeking extra attention
Emotional outbursts or frustration
Recognising these patterns allows parents to respond intentionally and positively rather than reacting out of frustration.
Strengths-Based Strategies for Parents
Re-establish routines gradually, helping children transition with consistent sleep, meals, and daily structure
Set clear, predictable expectations, so children feel secure with boundaries
Prioritise connection through one-on-one time, shared activities, or quality conversation
Model calm regulation to teach emotional self-control
Use positive reinforcement to celebrate cooperative behaviours and small wins
When to Seek Additional Support
Consider consulting a psychologist if behaviour changes persist beyond a few weeks, emotional outbursts significantly impact learning or social relationships, or sleep, appetite, or mood is consistently affected. Early support helps children build coping skills, emotional resilience, and smoother adjustment to routines.
Post-holiday behaviour changes are a natural part of adjustment. By responding calmly, reinforcing routines, and offering positive guidance, parents can support children’s growth and emotional wellbeing.
If your child is struggling to adjust after the holidays, contact Evolve Wellbeing Psychology in to access child-focused, strengths-based support and strategies.
