The school holidays can be a stressful time for parents. With six long weeks to fill and children at home all day, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed when planning activities and childcare. However, with some preparation and creativity, you can take the pressure off and even enjoy some of the extra family time the holidays allow. Here are some tips to make next year’s school breaks less stressful and more fun for the whole family.
Get Organised In Advance for the School Holidays
The key to minimising school holiday stress is organisation. Make sure you request time off work for the holidays you want as early as possible. Schools publish term dates well in advance, so you’ll know exactly when you need cover. Speak to family members, friends or neighbours who might help with childcare too. The earlier you ask; the more likely people will be available to lend a hand.
Mix Low-Cost And Free Activities With Treats
Family days out can be expensive, especially if you have multiple children. Mixing in free or cheap activities can help manage costs without the kids feeling too left out. Local parks, nature trails and free museums are great low-cost options, and you can pack a lunch to save money on dining out.
Think About A Summer Camp For Your Kids
A summer camp can be fantastic for giving kids routine and stimulation through the holidays while giving you some time back too. From sports and performing arts to academic camps, there’s something for every interest and age.
Many camps run day programmes with set drop-off and pick-up times, meaning you get the mornings or afternoons to yourself. Some also offer the option for kids to stay one or more nights, allowing you extended child-free time.
Swap Childcare With Other Parents
Holiday childcare swaps are useful for giving kids playtime with friends while parents take turns watching them. You repay the favour by having their kids another day. Swaps work best with parents of children your kids already know and play together well.
Agree on drop off/pick up times in advance and make sure you’re both comfortable with each other’s parenting approaches first. Keep swaps reasonably short (half or full days) and don’t over-commit to too many if you need family time too. Used sensibly though, swaps let kids socialise through the holidays while giving you all a mutual helping hand.
Embrace The Extra Family Time
While getting the work/life juggle right over the holidays is tricky, this extended family time is precious too. Children grow up incredibly fast, so soak up the extra hours together as much as you can.
Plan some simple, affordable family days like picnics, bike rides or baking sessions. Gardening can be a great way to bond with your kids too. Play classic board games, craft projects or garden games like badminton when the weather allows. Or just snuggle up watching a family movie with some popcorn. It’s often the simplest activities that create the best lifelong memories.
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