Juggling work obligations while keeping kids happily engaged and out of mischief during school holidays can overwhelm parents. With savvy planning and creativity, you can survive the lengthy breaks with minimal stress and maximise quality time together making memories. Here are handy tips to maintain sanity during these school holidays.
Plan Ahead And Mark Your Calendars
As soon as you have holiday dates, record them prominently in calendars and set reminders for planning tasks. Note work schedules or trips requiring childcare support. Outline high-level activity ideas kids will enjoy so you’re not scrambling last minute. Early planning prevents holiday chaos.
Set Expectations With Your Team At Work
Communicate work availability and scheduling needs transparently to colleagues well in advance. Request adjusting hours if possible to accommodate family commitments. Make sure your OOO notifies senders of delays in returning messages. Setting expectations eliminates frustration.
Research Local Holiday Programmes Early
Scope out local camps, sports programmes, arts/crafts courses, and museum schedules appealing to your child’s interests. Compare costs and age ranges served. Sign up early for popular options before they sell out. Having regular activities secured makes balancing work and childcare easier.
Look At Adventure Camps For Kids
For very active children, look into specialised adventure day camps offering hillwalking, water sports, obstacle courses and outdoor team challenges that will keep them occupied for hours burning off energy and building confidence. These immersive camps provide enriching fun they’ll remember. If you’re looking for UK camps that your kids will love, look at PGL. They have been running for 66 years, offering adventure and freedom in a safe and caring environment.
Create A “Boredom Buster” Bin
Collect engaging activities, craft supplies, games, and toys to reveal when kids have idle time. Rotate items regularly to keep their curiosity piqued. Having prepped boredom busters eliminates arguments when kids fuss they have nothing to do. Avoid perma-screen time.
Meal Prep And Freeze Kid-Friendly Foods
Spend a weekend prepping healthy, freezer-friendly meals for quick weeknight dinners during the scramble of holidays. Lasagnes, stews, roasted vegetables, and casseroles hold up well. Stock up on easy snacks to avoid daily battles.
Alternate Special Outings With Staycation Days
Balance expensive excursions to attractions, movies or shows with inexpensive staycation days involving picnics, nature walks, board game tournaments, home crafts and other family activities costing little. Mixing simple pleasures with bucket list experiences prevents burnout and budget strain.
Establish “Tech-Free Zones”
Set tech limits through designated tech-free spaces like bedrooms or dining rooms and agreed times for turning off devices daily to disconnect and bond as a family. Take walks or bike rides banning phones. Over-reliance on screens often causes increased bickering and irritability over holidays.
Remember This Too Shall Pass
When tensions escalate from too much close proximity and boredom, take a deep breath. School holidays are intense but temporary. Focus on creating lasting memories they’ll reminisce about, not seeking perfection. Laughter and flexibility get everyone through! The term will start again before you know it.
With proper planning, honest expectations and focus on simple joys, school holidays offer chances for meaningful bonding, discovery, and adventures. Keep perspective, laughs nearby and activities varied.
