The 3 Things I’m Doing Differently This Summer to Make the Work-Kid Juggle Easier

Summer holidays are almost here — and the juggle is real.

For many working families, especially those without formal childcare options, the next 8 weeks can feel like an unsolvable puzzle:

• Camps that run short hours

• Gaps between pickups and meetings

• Relying on grandparents, neighbours, and favours

• And still trying to show up fully at work

And yes — the weight of organising it all still tends to fall on mums.

This year, I’m doing things differently. Here are 3 intentional actions I’m taking to help me navigate the summer juggle with (some) less stress — and (hopefully) more sanity.

1. Shared Summer Planning — Because I’m Not the Default Organiser

In the past, I quietly took on the mental load of the entire summer: camps, schedules, childcare, meals. But this year, I’m involving my partner right from the start.
We sat down together, mapped out the next 8 weeks, and divided up who’s “on” and when, with the information we have so far. Flexibilty

We also added in our working days, annual leave, and any gaps we need to fill.

📝 Real-life tip: Do a “Sunday Sync” to check in on the week ahead.

2. Setting and Communicating Boundaries

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? If I don’t identify and communicate my boundaries, no one else will.
This summer, I’ve clearly defined:

• My working hours.

• When I’m available and when I’m not

• What I realistically can and can’t take on

Thankfully I have some level of flexibility during parts of my week, so I adapt my hours each day / week. I have these outlined, knowing flexibitlity may be needed and I’ve shared these with clients and family.

🔕 Real-life tip: Update your calendar with your summer availability to set expectations early if this possible.

3. Pre-Booked Joy (a.k.a. Protecting My Sanity)

I’ve learned that waiting for “a good time” to rest, recharge, or move my body means it rarely happens. So this summer, I’ve proactively scheduled things that fill me up.
That might be a quiet coffee, a walk alone, or even just time to scroll in peace. These little anchors help me feel more grounded amid the chaos.

💡 Real-life tip: Block a 30-minute “me moment” in your calendar each week. Label it something that reminds you it matters.

Summer will always be a bit of a juggle. It won’t be perfect — and I’m not aiming for perfection. But I have learned in previous summers how much the juggle impacts my mental health.
With more shared planning, clearer boundaries, and small non-negotiables for myself, I’m hoping to move through it with a little more ease (and a little less shouting!).

If you’re in this with me — what’s one thing you’re doing to make summer smoother this year?