In this busy stretch between major holidays, it can feel impossible to find a moment to breathe. The seasonal list can become endless. You might have a gift exchange at work, a holiday program at your child’s school, religious celebrations, or family get-togethers all clamoring for your time. Add in holiday shopping and you might find yourself overwhelmed and depleted. Finding meaningful moments with our kids to slow down and really connect can be a challenge.

It’s no surprise, then, that this season is high on the list for burnout and depression. There are simply too many expectations to meet. What’s a mom to do?

Stop! Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and commit yourself to taking five minutes for true connection. I know, easier said than done, but allow me to share one of the best pieces of advice I was ever given. When you’re overwhelmed, don’t try to do anything and everything. Instead, choose one thing. One step, one thought, one idea. The key here is to choose something small and completely accomplishable! Focus on that one thing, and don’t do anything else until you get it accomplished.

As busy working moms we can almost certainly agree that spending time with our kids during the holiday season is high on our list of importance. Finding the time to do it feels challenging, but I encourage you to be mindful to steal a few quiet minutes with your kiddos when you need a recharge.

Wondering how you’re supposed to make that happen? Read on for a few of my personal favorites as it relates to snagging quiet moments with my kids.

Enjoy A Little Nature!

Few things are as calming as being in nature. If this suggestion resonates with you then find a way to get outside, take a walk, and breathe deeply of the fresh air. If it’s cold where you live, bundle up in a coat and hat, wrap your little one tight, and get outside! There are lots of outdoor activities you can do, including caroling, ice skating, or taking a sleigh ride in the park.

If traipsing in the cooler weather isn’t your cup of tea, consider visiting a botanical garden, conservatory, or greenhouse. These spots are some of the best places to visit with family, and they allow you to enjoy nature without being in the out-of-doors.

Spots like the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago are a great, free option. These venues are peaceful and allow you and your kids to get that much needed time together.

Read A Book

One of my favorite ways to cuddle with my kids is to read them a story. If your time is very limited than reading a book together is a perfect option because you’ll be done in a matter of minutes.

Consider the temperament of your kids when choosing a book. If your kid is more into building and creating than wizards and princesses, it might be better to choose a book about robots than one about an enchanted rose. Similarly, if your kid hates bugs, it’s best not to choose a book about those wiggly creatures!

Listen to Music Together

If your kids are too old to sit with you while you read them a story, take a few minutes to relax and listen to music together instead. It can be a great way to unwind!

Play A Game

Games are a great way to bond as a family. While you might not have enough time to play an hours-long game of Monopoly you can surely fit in a game of Go Fish, Uno, or War. If you have toddlers, consider a fun but quick game like Pop the Pig or Candy Land.

While it’s true your kids probably won’t want to stop after only one game, this type of activity can act as a pressure release when obligations are building, and life is beginning to feel overwhelming.

Go Eat!

We all have to eat, right? Taking your kids to a quiet, neighborhood restaurant is a great way to connect, so consider visiting a local pizzeria or a nearby mom & pop diner. According to Harvard researchers, eating family meals on a regular basis can strengthen bonds, lower stress and anxiety, and build self-confidence. Take their advice and go grab a falafel!

Not sure where to find the right books, games, or outings for your quiet moments together during the busy holiday rush? Our KidFriendlyVenue App is a great time management tool. It helps us busy moms narrow down the perfect spots as it relates to our kids. This allows us to spend our limited time with our children rather than scouring the internet for things to do or see.

No matter where your busy holiday season finds you this year, I wish you peace and joy. From one mom to another, happy holidays!

Katie C