1. Traditions create emotional security
Psychologists emphasise that predictability is comforting — especially for children.
Christmas is filled with familiar sights, sounds and routines, which help:
- Lower anxiety
- Create a sense of stability
- Reinforce feelings of safety
- Anchor children during a busy time of year
Even small rituals like opening an advent calendar or hanging a specific decoration can become emotional ‘touchpoints’ that help children navigate seasonal change.
2. Rituals strengthen connection and belonging
Traditions bring families, classmates, and communities together in shared experiences.
This sense of belonging is a core human need and has been shown to improve:
- Emotional resilience
- Social confidence
- Overall happiness
Whether it’s a school carol concert, a Christmas jumper day or a cosy movie night at home, rituals remind us we’re part of something bigger.
3. They boost positive emotions and memory
Rituals activate dopamine — the brain’s reward chemical — because they’re associated with anticipation, novelty, and joy.
These moments are often what children remember most vividly.
Research shows that children recall the feelings of Christmas more than the details, especially moments of:
- Laughter
- Togetherness
- Sensory experiences
- Warmth and comfort
This is why a simple baking tradition or storytelling routine can have just as much impact as a bigger event.
4. Traditions give children a sense of identity
Rituals help children understand who they are and where they belong.
Family traditions, cultural practices, and school celebrations all help shape identity and self-esteem.
A child who feels rooted in positive experiences is more likely to develop:
- Pride in who they are
- A strong sense of self
- Healthy emotional development
How Schools Can Use Rituals to Support Wellbeing at Christmas
Schools play a powerful role in creating inclusive and meaningful Christmas traditions.
Here are simple ways schools can build wellbeing-focused rituals:
- Consistent morning routines in December (e.g., mindful moments, festive gratitude circles)
- Inclusive activities that reflect all cultures and beliefs
- Creative traditions like making kindness chains or ‘wish for the world’ trees
- Calm, sensory-friendly spaces for children who need quiet festive time
- Shared rituals such as storytelling, festive reading corners, or weekly Christmas songs
These predictable, shared moments help every child feel part of the school community — especially those who may find Christmas emotionally challenging.
Wellbeing Rituals Families Can Create at Home
Traditions don’t have to be big or elaborate to have an impact.
In fact, the simplest rituals often hold the most meaning.
Try introducing:
- A favourite Christmas book you read every year
- A festive walk to see the lights
- A “making memories” ornament children decorate annually
- A Christmas Eve routine that’s calm and comforting
- A family kindness activity (donating a toy, writing cards, choosing a charity)
The goal isn’t perfection — it’s connection.
A Final Message from The Wellbeing Crew
Christmas traditions are much more than festive fun.
They are grounding, meaningful and psychologically powerful rituals that support wellbeing — especially for children.
By creating simple, predictable and inclusive traditions, families and schools can help children feel safe, connected and emotionally supported during this magical time of year.
If you’d like help bringing more wellbeing-focused traditions into your school or community, The Wellbeing Crew are always here to support you.
