The holiday season arrives with excitement, anticipation—and often, a lot of pressure. There are celebrations to plan, people to see, traditions to uphold, and through it all, the quiet hope that somehow, this season will feel meaningful for your children. But here's the question: "How do I help my child manage the stress without losing what makes the holidays special?" Here's what most parents don't realize: your kids won't remember if everything went perfectly—they'll remember how it felt to be included, to contribute, and to be surrounded by people who love them. Discover how to support your child through holiday stress while creating connection that actually matters.

Your child asks when their dog is coming home, even though you've explained he's not coming back. They seem fine playing with toys one moment, then sob uncontrollably at bedtime the next. You find yourself wondering: "Am I saying the right things? How do I explain death when I'm heartbroken too?" Here's what most parents don't realize: losing a pet is often a child's first real experience with death, and how you support them now shapes how they understand loss for years to come. Discover how to help your child grieve their beloved pet with honesty and compassion, while honoring the love that made saying goodbye so hard.