Greenwood County • Family and Community Wellness Agent
The holidays are a time for people of all ages to come together, from the youngest family members to the oldest. But that mix of personalities, histories, and expectations can also make gathering as a family feel challenging. You may feel stressed or anxious, especially if you’re reconnecting with relatives you don’t see often or don’t have a particularly strong relationship with. Even so, family traditions continue, and despite any uncomfortable dynamics, holiday time can still be meaningful, positive, and uplifting.
A big part of creating that experience starts with your mindset. Approaching holiday gatherings with a positive attitude can help you feel happier and more relaxed, making the day or the entire week much more enjoyable. Stress and worry, whether about family relationships or other life pressures, can affect how we sleep, eat, and take care of ourselves. By entering these multigenerational gatherings with an open mind and the intention to enjoy the moment, you give yourself the chance to have fun, learn from other generations, and create memories that last long after the season has passed.
Research shows that people of all ages benefit when families play together. Shared leisure activities foster connection, spark joy, and strengthen family bonds. Play doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Bring board games or card games, host an ugly sweater contest, organize a white elephant gift exchange, or set up a neighborhood scavenger hunt. You could even plan a canned food drive as a family service project. Activities like these encourage laughter, togetherness, and a positive holiday atmosphere.
Clear communication can ease stress for everyone. Discuss details in advance, such as meal times, the menu, and who will prepare which dishes. If you have family members with health considerations like diabetes, hypertension, or dementia, plan meals and activities with those needs in mind. If certain relationships are strained, consider planning a variety of activities that allow people to spread out and take breaks when needed. Creating quiet rooms for naps or downtime can make the day smoother for both young children and older adults.
At the heart of it all, communication and positivity go a long way. With a little planning and openness, your family gathering can be filled with joy, connection, and memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
Information comes from Kansas State University Publications.
For more information about Family and Community Wellness, 4-H Youth Development, or K-State Research and Extension, contact the office at 620-583-7455, email [email protected], or stop by the office. Visit K-State Research and Extension- Greenwood County Facebook page and www. greenwood.k-state.edu for more up-to-date information on programming.
