Reset and Reconnect: Making the Most of Winter Break for You and Your Child

Winter break is a chance to slow down, reset, and savor extra time with your child. The season’s quieter moments offer the perfect opportunity to deepen your connection with them—and with yourself. For parents and caregivers of children who stutter, this time can be used to reflect on how you’re supporting your child, reset your own intentions, and create meaningful, low-pressure ways to connect.

Here’s how you can use this winter break to nurture both your relationship with your child and your own well-being, while setting the stage for a more grounded and confident new year.

1. Reflect on What’s Working (and What’s Not)

Winter break is a natural pause, making it a great time to take stock of your journey.

• Ask yourself:

  • What’s been working well when it comes to supporting my child?

  • Are there areas where I feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure?

  • How can I better balance my child’s needs with my own?

• Celebrate your wins. Maybe you’ve created a bedtime routine that helps your child feel suppported and rested, or you’ve learned to pause and listen when they speak. Recognize the small victories—you’ve already done so much!

• Give yourself grace. Supporting a child who stutters isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up with love and patience. This reflection isn’t a time to judge yourself—it’s a chance to gently reassess and set fresh intentions.

2. Prioritize Low-Pressure Connection with Your Child

Winter break doesn’t have to be packed with activities. In fact, the quieter, slower moments often create the best opportunities for connection.

• Create routines that feel restorative.

  • Read together before bed, bake cookies, or take a short walk in the snow.

  • These low-pressure activities allow your child to feel comfortable expressing themselves without the stress of structured conversations.

• Encourage shared creativity.

  • Draw or paint together, build a snowman, or write a short story where your child is the hero.

  • Activities like these can help your child explore their voice in ways that feel fun and natural.

• Celebrate their voice.

  • Take time to really listen when they speak, whether they’re telling you about their day or imagining an elaborate story.

  • Show them their voice matters—including stuttering.

3. Reset Your Emotional Resilience

Parenting can be draining, and winter break is a chance to recharge your own emotional reserves.

• Make space for self-care.

  • Even if it’s just 10 minutes, carve out time for yourself. Sip tea, journal, take a walk, or enjoy a moment of quiet.

  • Remind yourself that taking care of yourself is an essential part of being the best caregiver you can be.

• Lean on your support system.

  • Whether it’s a partner, friend, or online community, reach out to others who understand your journey. Sharing your experiences can make you feel less alone.

• Practice self-compassion.

  • When moments feel hard, remind yourself: “I’m doing the best I can, and that’s enough.”

4. Set Goals for the New Year—Together

Winter break is the perfect time to look ahead and set gentle goals for both you and your child.

• For your child:

  • Frame goals around confidence, bravery, or joy in speaking.

  • Example: “This year, let’s try one new activity that feels exciting, even if it’s a little scary at first!”

• For yourself:

  • Think about ways you can continue to support your child while maintaining your own balance.

  • Example: “This year, I want to be more mindful about taking breaks when I need them.”

• Celebrate progress together. Use this time to reflect on how far you’ve both come and build excitement for what’s ahead.

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How the Parent Guide Can Help

Looking for more ways to reset and connect this winter? Our Parent Guide is designed to help caregivers like you navigate the ups and downs of supporting a child who stutters.

• What’s inside:

  • Practical tools to create a supportive environment.

  • Reflection exercises to strengthen your connection with your child.

  • Emotional regulation strategies for both you and your child.

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• Why it matters:Winter break is a chance to start fresh, and the Parent Guide offers actionable insights to make 2024 a year of growth, connection, and confidence for both you and your child.

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Winter break is more than a pause in the calendar—it’s a chance to reconnect with what matters most. By reflecting, prioritizing low-pressure moments, and taking care of yourself, you can create a season that feels meaningful for both you and your child.

And remember, you’re not alone. With tools like the Parent Guide, support is always within reach.

Here’s to a winter break filled with connection, care, and moments that remind you how much you and your child have to celebrate!