1. Talk about the holidays 
   Open conversations about the holiday season can help children feel included and valued. Discuss their past experiences at this time of year and what holidays mean to your family. Ask for their ideas on how to make celebrations special, incorporating traditions from their culture or background. Honoring their customs, festivals and beliefs alongside your own develops a sense of belonging and connection.
    
2. Include them in festive activities 
   Writing a letter to Santa, creating decorations or preparing for a celebration can make the season magical. If it’s their first holiday season with you, reassure them that they are part of the festivities. Adapt activities to suit diverse cultural and religious traditions, so all children feel equally valued and engaged. 
    
3. Acknowledge emotions 
   The holidays can be emotional, particularly for children missing their family or worried about loved ones. Let them know it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. Encourage open conversations about their feelings, making a special effort to ensure they feel supported and included. 
    
4. Maintain routine where possible 
   Routine provides stability and comfort for children. Try to keep daily schedules consistent, or if changes are unavoidable, use a calendar or planner to outline holiday activities. This helps children feel prepared and reduces anxiety about the unknown. 
    
5. Avoid setting expectations 
   Every child experiences the holidays differently. Avoid putting pressure on them to feel or act a certain way. Give them the space to express themselves naturally and respond with patience and understanding. 
    
6. Facilitate connections with loved ones 
   Arrange visits, phone calls or video chats with their family or other important people in their lives during the holiday season. Work with your agency to organise this early. Encourage the child to make cards or choose gifts for loved ones, reinforcing their bonds and helping them stay connected. 
    
7. Be prepared 
   Keep contact details for your agency and My Forever Family’s out-of-hours support handy in case you need assistance during the holiday period. Being prepared ensures you can focus on creating a joyful, stress-free experience for everyone. 

By celebrating the holiday season in an inclusive and thoughtful way, you can create lasting memories and a sense of belonging for the children in your care.