Ep 160: Holiday Magic Without the Meltdown with Laurel Crossley
From TAKING THE HELM with Lynn McLaughlin by Lynn McLaughlin
November 26, 2025 ยท 36 min ยท Episode 160
About this episode
Lynn McLaughlin and guests discuss how intentional choices can help families navigate holiday chaos and create meaningful memories.
๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐จ ๐ข๐ง๐ญ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐๐ฅ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ข๐๐๐ฌ ๐ก๐๐ฅ๐ฉ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ฒ ๐ ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐ฐ๐ก๐๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐ก๐๐จ๐ฌ ๐ซ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ฎ๐ฉ? Laurel Crossley joins us again with guest host Kathryn Collins to explore how small, thoughtful decisions can make a huge difference for families during the holidays. From keeping little ones comfortable and predictable to helping older kids engage in meaningful ways, we cover boundaries, calm moments, and simple strategies to create lasting memories without the overwhelm. Key Points: ๐ฅ Keeping young children settled and comfortable, even when routines are challenged. ๐ฅ Setting clear expectations with extended family to reduce tension and stress. ๐ฅ Creating calm spaces and rhythms that support babies, toddlers, and new parents. ๐ฅ Reimagining gift-giving and holiday activities to boost connection, not clutter. ๐ฅ Involving older children in planning, budgeting, and traditions that teach life skills. ๐ฅ Recognizing when itโs time to pause or step back to protect your childโs well-being. โConnect with Laurel: โ laurelcrossley.comโ The Primary Purpose of This Podcast Is To Educate, Which Does Not Constitute Professionalโฆ
People in this episode
Host: Lynn McLaughlin
Guest: Laurel Crossley
Topics covered
- holiday planning
- family dynamics
- intentional choices
- child well-being
- gift-giving strategies
Keywords
- holiday magic
- family stress
- calm moments
- gift-giving
- child comfort
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