As the school year winds down and the holiday season approaches, children and parents alike look forward to a well-deserved break. But navigating this time of year can present unique challenges for families. UWC psychologist and Head of Therapeutic Services, Rone Gerber, shares expert insights into how parents can help children relax, recharge, and reconnect meaningfully during the holidays.
"Routines are vital for children," says Gerber. "When holidays arrive, it's tempting to let all the rules fly out the window, but that can disrupt their sense of security. You can relax the schedule a bit - bedtime an hour later or skipping the occasional bath - but try to maintain a rhythm."
Gerber says that consistency in routines helps children feel grounded. “Let them know it’s a holiday by slightly bending the rules, but don’t throw everything overboard. This helps them enjoy the break without feeling disoriented.”
Children thrive on play, and Gerber highlights its therapeutic power. "Play is essential - swimming, running, or building sandcastles at the beach. Most children love outdoor activities, and it’s important to give them the freedom to play in a way that energises them."
She stresses the importance of spending quality time together: “Most children don’t mind what you’re doing, as long as you do it with them. Whether it’s baking cookies or wrestling on the carpet, your attention is priceless. In these moments, they recover from the pressures of the school year.”
The holidays offer a unique opportunity to instil values of empathy and generosity. Gerber suggests: "Involve children in giving back. Ask them, 'Which of your toys can we donate?' or let them help an elderly neighbour clean their garden. These acts of kindness build self-esteem and a sense of worth.”
She advises parents to lead by example: “Bake something with your child and take it to someone in need. These small actions open the door to meaningful conversations and expand their understanding of the world.”
Gerber says this advice is appropriate for children ages 7 to 12. However, she adds that a different approach should be applied to children 12 and older.
Navigating adolescence can feel like walking a tightrope, but Gerber offers a balanced approach. "Adolescents are forming their identities and crave independence, but they still need their parents’ attention - even if they won’t admit it."
Her advice? "Pick your moments and stay engaged. Share a funny story, discuss current events, or sit and listen. They might push you away, but deep down, they value the connection."
Versatile boundaries are essential during this stage. “Set clear rules, but allow room for negotiation. Reward trustworthiness with greater freedom and tighten boundaries when necessary. It’s a constant balance, but it helps them develop responsibility and critical thinking.”
By balancing fun with structure, encouraging creative play, and making space for genuine connections, families can end the year on a high note and lay the foundation for an even stronger relationship in the year ahead. As Gerber so eloquently says, "Most children don't even mind what you're doing as long as you're doing it with them."
What does the Office for Therapeutic Services(TS) offer students and staff?
The Office for Therapeutic Services (TS) provides counselling interventions, with the aim of restoring and/or enhancing academic functioning of registered UWC students.
The Office does so with short-term and solution focused counselling interventions that address multiple layers of psychosocial traumas or challenges that impair optimal academic functioning.
Additionally, the Office also provides group counselling interventions, psychoeducational workshops, mental health awareness talks and campaigns with students and staff members.
"Routines are vital for children," says Gerber. "When holidays arrive, it's tempting to let all the rules fly out the window, but that can disrupt their sense of security. You can relax the schedule a bit - bedtime an hour later or skipping the occasional bath - but try to maintain a rhythm."
Gerber says that consistency in routines helps children feel grounded. “Let them know it’s a holiday by slightly bending the rules, but don’t throw everything overboard. This helps them enjoy the break without feeling disoriented.”
Children thrive on play, and Gerber highlights its therapeutic power. "Play is essential - swimming, running, or building sandcastles at the beach. Most children love outdoor activities, and it’s important to give them the freedom to play in a way that energises them."
She stresses the importance of spending quality time together: “Most children don’t mind what you’re doing, as long as you do it with them. Whether it’s baking cookies or wrestling on the carpet, your attention is priceless. In these moments, they recover from the pressures of the school year.”
The holidays offer a unique opportunity to instil values of empathy and generosity. Gerber suggests: "Involve children in giving back. Ask them, 'Which of your toys can we donate?' or let them help an elderly neighbour clean their garden. These acts of kindness build self-esteem and a sense of worth.”
She advises parents to lead by example: “Bake something with your child and take it to someone in need. These small actions open the door to meaningful conversations and expand their understanding of the world.”
Gerber says this advice is appropriate for children ages 7 to 12. However, she adds that a different approach should be applied to children 12 and older.
Navigating adolescence can feel like walking a tightrope, but Gerber offers a balanced approach. "Adolescents are forming their identities and crave independence, but they still need their parents’ attention - even if they won’t admit it."
Her advice? "Pick your moments and stay engaged. Share a funny story, discuss current events, or sit and listen. They might push you away, but deep down, they value the connection."
Versatile boundaries are essential during this stage. “Set clear rules, but allow room for negotiation. Reward trustworthiness with greater freedom and tighten boundaries when necessary. It’s a constant balance, but it helps them develop responsibility and critical thinking.”
By balancing fun with structure, encouraging creative play, and making space for genuine connections, families can end the year on a high note and lay the foundation for an even stronger relationship in the year ahead. As Gerber so eloquently says, "Most children don't even mind what you're doing as long as you're doing it with them."
What does the Office for Therapeutic Services(TS) offer students and staff?
The Office for Therapeutic Services (TS) provides counselling interventions, with the aim of restoring and/or enhancing academic functioning of registered UWC students.
The Office does so with short-term and solution focused counselling interventions that address multiple layers of psychosocial traumas or challenges that impair optimal academic functioning.
Additionally, the Office also provides group counselling interventions, psychoeducational workshops, mental health awareness talks and campaigns with students and staff members.
