Blog Layout

Practicing Presence to Deal with Holiday Stress

December 20, 2024

Resources for parents and guardians to better understand and support their children through challenges, whether familiar or new. These tools are designed to empower parents as guides and companions on their child’s journey.


This month, we explore practicing mindfulness and presence in family life to help manage holiday stress. 


How to Bring More Peace and Presence to Family Life

Life is stressful, but the holiday season can add an extra layer to many families' lives. This article offers seven strategies families can use mindfulness to strengthen their bonds.

https://www.mindful.org/how-to-bring-more-peace-and-presence-to-family-life/



The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Child: Presence

“One of the most important gifts a parent can give a child is [their] presence, validation, and security. When we're present with our children, it lays a path for attunement and resonance. Attunement is when the parent is aware and present to the child's inner world of thoughts, feelings, and emotions. When attuned, a state of resonance occurs where the child "feels felt."  Think about any time you felt completely understood. It breeds a sense of safety, and when a person feels safe, they cultivate the ability to trust.”

https://www.mindful.org/the-greatest-gift-to-give-your-child-your-presence/



Holiday Gifts: Managing Expectations With Your Kids

Three expert tips for stressing (and spending) less during the giving season.

https://www.parentmap.com/article/holiday-gifts-managing-expectations-your-kids



What To Do When My Child Acts Disappointed After Receiving A Gift From Someone

It has happened to us all at one point in time or another; someone gives our child a gift, and they don’t like it, and they make it known. This article helps break down what children might be going through and how to deal with it in the moment.

https://www.drbeurkens.com/podcast/what-to-do-when-my-child-acts-disappointed-after-receiving-a-gift-from-someone/




March 25, 2025
Children and adults learn more about food insecurity in Champaign County
Resources for UU Emerging Adults Age 18 to 25
March 11, 2025
There are resources for emerging adults aged 18 to 25 to better connect them to UUCUC and the national UU community. Whether they reside in the CU area, attend school, or work elsewhere, there is something to help support them in this stage of life, career, or spiritual journey.
Our Whole Lives OWL Class for Adults
March 4, 2025
Update on the Adult OWL class for 2025
Family presence books and movies
December 13, 2024
Books, movies, and TV shows that help families engage the December 2024 theme of PRESENCE with their imagination. These suggestions honor the unique way stories enrich our sense of what's possible, expand our empathy, and build our identities.
Picture of a family eating at a table together. Two adults and two children.
December 6, 2024
At the Table engages the monthly theme through question-driven family discussions. The questions are designed to be used at mealtime or other times when family members are together. This month's theme is Presence.
Share by: