Big Energy, Big Feelings: How Movement Helps Kids During Busy Seasons
The holidays are exciting. They’re loud, busy, full of new routines, treats, and togetherness. And for many kids…They’re also a lot.
If your child feels extra wiggly, emotional, short-tempered, or “on edge” this time of year, you’re not doing anything wrong and neither are they.
Often, it’s a sign their body needs movement, not more structure, discipline, or screen time.
We believe movement is one of the most powerful tools we have to help kids regulate emotions, build confidence, and feel better in their bodies. Especially during busy seasons like the holidays.
Why the Holidays Can Feel Overstimulating for Kids
Between school events, family gatherings, travel, late nights, and sugar-filled schedules, kids’ nervous systems can easily become overwhelmed.
Some common signs of overstimulation include:
Big emotions or sudden meltdowns
Difficulty focusing or listening
Restlessness or nonstop movement
Trouble winding down at night
This isn’t just bad behavior, it’s a body asking for a reset.
Why Movement Works as a Reset
Movement helps kids:
Release built-up energy
Regulate their nervous system
Improve focus and mood
Feel more grounded and confident
And it doesn’t need to be a full workout or organized practice. Even 5 minutes of playful movement can help a child shift from overwhelmed to calm.
That’s why we focus on small, frequent movement moments rather than long or structured sessions.
Morning, Afternoon, and Evening Movement Matter
Different times of day call for different types of movement:
Morning movement helps kids wake up their bodies and start the day feeling ready.
Afternoon movement acts as a reset, especially after screen time, travel, or long periods of sitting.
Evening movement can be gentle and calming, helping kids wind down before bedtime.
When movement is spread throughout the day, kids are better able to regulate energy and emotions.
Making Movement Fun (and Decision-Free)
Sometimes kids don’t want to choose what to do and parents don’t want to plan another thing.
That’s where games come in. Turning movement into a simple game removes pressure and makes kids more likely to participate. One of our favorites is the Dice Movement Game.
Try Our Free Dice Movement Calendar 🎲
We created a Dice Movement Calendar to make movement easy, playful, and stress-free. All you need is one die.
Roll the dice, match the number to a movement, and get moving, once a day or multiple times!
There’s no right or wrong way to use it. Some days you’ll roll once. Some days you’ll roll three times.
Why it works:
Kids love games
No prep required
Encourages independence
Supports emotional regulation
Builds positive movement habits
A Gentle Reminder for Parents
You don’t need to fill every moment with structured activities. Sometimes the best thing you can give your child is:
Space to move
Freedom to play
Permission to reset
Movement isn’t a reward or something to “earn.” It’s a tool kids can use for life.
Download the Free Dice Movement Calendar
Looking for an easy way to help your child move, reset, and feel better during the holidays?
👉 Download our free Holiday Dice Movement Calendar and roll your way to calmer, happier days.
Because at Runner2Runner, we believe movement should build confidence…not pressure.
