Your Holiday Survival Q&A: Emotional Self-Regulation for the Whole Family

In this Q&A follow-up to last week’s Thanksgiving special, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions about emotional self-regulation, holiday expectations, and the stress that comes with getting everyone together under one roof.

You’ll hear quick, practical guidance on:

• Managing holiday expectations so you don’t end up disappointed
• How much to plan during winter break
• Loosening screen limits without losing control
• What to do about kids who refuse holiday meals
• Teens who disappear the moment break starts
• Handling gift-giving reactions and gratitude
• Protecting your own energy and avoiding resentment
• Resetting when the day goes off the rails

If you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, we hope your day feels manageable. If you’re outside the U.S., these questions apply to any big family gathering — December holidays, birthdays, and every festival that brings people together.