Christmas at home is full of joy — but also full of noise, screens, bright lights and family chaos. Between excited kids, back-to-back films, endless video games and the general festive frenzy, your eyes and ears can end up working overtime.

Here’s how to protect your senses and keep everyone feeling comfortable through the season.

1. Managing Screen-Heavy Kids (and Adults!)

School’s out, routines shift and suddenly everyone’s glued to tablets, games and Christmas films.

To ease Christmas eye strain, try:

• 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds

• Regular blink breaks to prevent dryness

• Screens below eye level to reduce neck and eye tension

• Room lighting on, not pitch-dark movie marathons

• Outdoor time — even 10 minutes helps reset tired eyes

2. Tackling Festive Overstimulation

Between fairy lights, flashing decorations, music and constant chatter, sensory fatigue hits fast — especially for kids, those with sensitivities, or anyone already tired from the season.

To reduce sensory overload:

• Dim harsh lighting and choose warmer, softer bulbs

• Give your eyes quiet moments (close them for 10–15 seconds)

• Create a calm corner for anyone who needs a break

• Rotate noise levels — loud games, then quiet activities, then outdoors

• Use “light layers”: fewer flashing lights, more steady warm glows

Your eyes and ears cope better when stimulation comes in gentle waves, not all at once.

3. Protecting Your Hearing in Busy Homes

Holiday gatherings can get loud — especially with excitable children, cooking noise and everyone talking at once.

To support family noise hearing health:

• Keep background noise balanced (TV + music + conversation = overload)

• Lower the TV volume when devices are already buzzing

• Use noise-reducing options (ear defenders for kids, quiet headphones, gentle breaks)

• Step outside for a few minutes of quiet to reset your hearing

A calmer soundscape helps prevent fatigue, headaches and irritability.

4. Quick Comfort Tips for the Whole House

• Stay hydrated (important for both vision and hearing).

• Encourage regular breaks during games and gatherings.

• Keep decor lighting consistent, not overly bright or flashing.

• Prioritise sleep — tired senses are more easily overwhelmed.

Start the New Year Feeling Your Best

Holiday chaos is inevitable, but discomfort doesn’t have to be. If you or your family struggled with eye strain, sensory overload or hearing fatigue this season, a simple check-up can make a huge difference.

Book your January check-up and start the year with clarity and comfort.