Dear Dorie,

I have two young children — 2 years old and 5 years old — and just got back from a five-day vacation with my husband. We really indulged with staying up late, sleeping in, theme parks, kids sleeping in our bed, a little bit more sugar than usual. Basically, a great vacation but I am now paying the price big time. Is this temporary or did I really set regression in full mode?

Regretting Regression



Dear Regretting,

First, congratulations on a fantastic family vacation. I hope you got a little quality time with each family member as well as some quiet time for yourself. Vacations can be weary adventures and, yes, you’ll pay the price of disruption in schedules, particularly with your toddler.

Here’s the good news: It’s not permanent. They will move back into their old routines as long as you are consistent and deliver the “goods.” Children are resilient and generally positive about structure and limits. It’s up to you to pull in the reins about sugar and sleep, and in a week or so you’ll be looking at photographs trying to remember that holiday.

Vacations are about change and fun. If we did exactly the same thing as we do every day at home, all you’d end up with is a huge credit card bill. Deal patiently with the temper tantrums, re-adjustments and fond memories.

Dorie

(Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John’s Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Meek answers questions concerning children ages birth to 5 years old. Submit your questions to “Dear Dorie” at meek@smmusd.org, or call (310) 452-6132; fax (310) 452-6392).