Parental Anxiety and Exhaustion at Christmas [with Rebecca Dredge]

Christmas is meant to be joyful… so why does it leave so many parents anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed?
In this episode, Justin sits down with Rebecca Dredge (CEO of the Kiddo App) to unpack why school holidays spike parental stress — and what actually helps families survive the juggle of work, money, childcare, and endless commitments without burning out. This is a permission-giving conversation every tired parent needs before Christmas arrives.

KEY POINTS

• Why over a third of parents feel anxious about school holidays
• The hidden pressure of “making Christmas magical”
• How saying no can protect your family (and your sanity)
• Why over-planning everything backfires — and what to plan instead
• Practical ways to get support without guilt or overwhelm

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“It’s okay to say no. Your fridge doesn’t need every invitation on it.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Kiddo App – On-demand babysitting and care support for families
• Happy Families resources at happyfamilies.com.au
  

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Circle the non-negotiables that matter most to your family
• Say no to at least one invitation this week
• Plan a few meaningful moments — not every moment
• Line up support before you’re desperate for it
• Aim to “glide into Christmas,” not collapse into it

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