10 tips for thriving this holiday season with ibd

The holidays are a time of joy, family gatherings, and delicious food, but they can also be stressful, especially for families managing pediatric IBD. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, or the Fourth of July, the key to enjoying the holidays while managing your child's IBD diagnosis is thoughtful planning and care. In preparation for the upcoming holiday season, this blog post will cover ten basic tips to help you and your family navigate the festive season with ease and confidence. And if you're reading this as someone with an IBD diagnosis rather than a caregiver, these tips are still for you! Just modify them to fit your own needs!

Tip #1: Plan Ahead for Travel

Preparation is crucial for a smooth holiday experience. If you're traveling for the holidays, research the nearest hospitals and pharmacies at your destination. Pack a travel kit with all your child's medications, a list of medical information (copies of prescriptions, health insurance cards, contact information of your child's healthcare provider, etc.), and any emergency contacts. You may also want to pack an emergency “to-go” bag for your child with a change of clothes, extra underwear, plastic bags for soiled clothes, toilet paper, wipes, hand sanitizer, etc. For a more comprehensive look at traveling with IBD, including packing necessities and TSA information, please refer to the blog post entitled “Traveling With IBD: What You Need to Know” published 9/8/23. A link to this blog post is down below! Additionally, you should notify your host in advance about any dietary restrictions your child may have and discuss menu options that suit your child's needs. Be prepared to do your own grocery shopping too! Planning ahead helps you avoid last-minute stress and ensures you have everything your child needs.

Tip #2: Communicate with Family

If you plan on spending the holidays with extended family, open communication is essential. Let your family know about your child's dietary restrictions and any special accommodations that may be needed (bathroom access, quiet time, etc.). Being upfront about your child's needs, whether you're visiting or hosting, can prevent misunderstandings and create a more supportive environment. Remember, your child's health is a priority, and your family will likely appreciate your honesty and willingness to communicate.

Tip #3: Focus on IBD-Friendly Foods

Holiday meals often include rich, heavy dishes that may not be IBD-friendly. Stick to foods that you know are safe for your child. If you're attending a potluck or family dinner, consider bringing a dish that your child can enjoy without worry. It's natural for children to want to eat what others are having, so try offering similar options that are modified to be IBD-friendly. For instance, if everyone else is having a creamy side dish, prepare a version with ingredients that won't trigger symptoms. Be sure to help your child avoid foods that may cause flare-ups while still letting them feel included and satisfied!

Tip #4: Manage Stress

The holiday season (traveling, family reunions, break in routines) can be stressful for the whole family! That stress may increase IBD symptoms for your child. Everyone in your family can practice stress management techniques, like deep breathing, guided relaxation, or gentle stretching. If you notice your child becoming overwhelmed, take breaks together, whether it's a quiet moment in another room or a short walk outside. For younger children, turning stress relief into a fun activity—like drawing, reading a favorite book, or doing a simple craft—can be effective. Prioritizing activities that bring peace and joy to both of you will help make the holidays enjoyable and support your child's overall well-being.

Tip #5: Keep Your Child Hydrated

With the holiday hustle and bustle, it's easy to overlook hydration as a parent, but staying hydrated is essential for managing IBD symptoms. Even in the middle of fun get togethers and parties, be sure to encourage your child to drink water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can aggravate their symptoms. Avoid giving your child drinks with excessive caffeine or high sugar content, as these can irritate their digestive system. Bringing a water bottle when you're out and about can make it easier to keep them hydrated wherever you go. Prioritizing hydration helps your child feel their best and supports healthy digestion during the holidays.

Tip #6: Get Enough Rest

Holidays can be busy and exhausting for everyone in the family. Make sure to prioritize sleep and rest during this time. Don't overextend your family's schedule to the point that it is negatively impacting your child's health. Be sure to stick to your child's restful bedtime routine to ensure quality sleep each night. If you do have a particularly busy day, be sure to schedule some downtime for your child to rest or nap if needed. Adequate rest is crucial for managing IBD and keeping your energy levels up during the holiday season!

Tip #7: Be Mindful of Portions

Overeating is common during the holidays but can lead to discomfort for those living with IBD. Be mindful of portion sizes for your child and try to encourage your child to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of one large feast. This approach helps your child's digestive system handle food more efficiently. Help your child to pay attention to hunger and fullness cues. Encourage your child to stop eating before reaching the point of discomfort. This is easier said than done!

Tip #8: Keep a Routine

While the holidays often disrupt daily routines, try to maintain some consistency in your child's schedule. Be sure to continue to stick to your child's regular medication times and meal patterns as closely as possible. Consistency helps your child's body stay balanced and reduces the risk of flare-ups. This was already touched on slightly, but if your family is traveling during the holidays or has a particularly busy day, plan the days to include familiar activities and rest periods. A balanced routine provides stability and helps your child navigate the holiday chaos more effectively.

Tip #9: Seek Support

Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or support groups during the holidays. Connecting with others who understand your challenges can provide comfort and encouragement. Share your experiences and tips with fellow IBD Warrior families to help each other navigate the holiday season. Emotional support is invaluable and can make a significant difference in how you (and your child) handle the ups and downs of the holidays! You can always feel free to reach out to IBD Connect this holiday season, whether through our main website, our social media platforms, or our general email address linked below. For a more direct connection, please feel free to contact IBD Connect's Executive Director, Lisa Fournier, via the email address linked below.

Tip #10: Focus on Fun and What Matters

The holidays are all about celebrating, having fun, and making cherished memories with loved ones. While there may be some stress in navigating your child's IBD this holiday season, put your main focus on the joy of spending time together and finding activities that bring laughter and happiness. Plan games, watch favorite holiday movies, get creative with crafts, or do whatever your family desires to make this season special! Remember, the more (and sooner!) you plan ahead for the holidays, the easier it will be to focus on what really matters when it's important to do so. By keeping your attention on the fun and positive moments, you can create an enjoyable holiday experience that your child will remember with a smile.

Hopefully these tips provide some guidance for helping you and your family navigate IBD this holiday season. Remember, as mentioned above, the sooner you plan ahead for the holiday season, the less overall stress you and your family will have and the easier it will be to focus on what really matters. Additionally, should you find yourself in need of support or encouragement this holiday season, please do not hesitate to reach out to IBD Connect via website, social media platforms, or email (linked below). At IBD Connect, we believe that having a support system is crucial to navigating the pediatric IBD world. No family should have to walk through this journey alone, and we are happy to answer questions or provide support in any way we can. Happy holidays from IBD Connect, and as always, stay strong IBD Warrior families!