Top tips on balancing work and parenting during holidays

As Summertime looms, and balancing work and parenting re-commences for some, the thoughts and anxiety of managing it all is beginning to weigh on many parent’s minds.  There is no denying the juggle of school holidays and work can be challenging depending on your childcare situation. The burden tends to fall on the Mum to plan and organise. I would highly recommend involving your partner from the start, delegating some of the planning/organising so the weight does not solely fall to you to manage.

Here are some tips that may make it a little smoother and support you to start planning for those long 9 weeks:

Plan ahead: Never underestimate the power of planning. Plan ahead for the week or month. This will give you a better idea of what is happening over those weeks, work and home wise, allow you to arrange additional support if and when needed and help you prioritize your time. You can also plan ahead for meals, activities, trying to be your future friend as much as possible. Batch cooking, home deliveries etc.

Create a schedule: Create a schedule that includes both work and child-related activities, for yourself, your partner and the kids, such as summer camps, your planned meetings, outdoor time, meals, any holiday time planned. This will help you manage your time more efficiently.

Set boundaries: Identifying what your boundaries are over this period is very important and clearly communicating these boundaries with your employer, co-workers, and family members will help to structure your working time and home time. Be very clear on when you’re available and when you’re not. This will help you avoid interruptions and distractions during work hours or time at home.

Get help: Take time to identify who is in your village/support system over the summer months. Who may be able to support you and when. Whether its family, childminder or friends. Perhaps you can team up with another family or two and help each other out on different days. Carpooling for camps etc.

Plan in time for self-care: Don’t forget to make time for yourself. Schedule it in, make the plans. Take breaks to exercise, read, or relax. Whatever supports you for your mental health. This will help you for both home and work mindset.

Flexibility will be needed: Be prepared to adjust your schedule and plans as needed. Summertime and kids can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances if needed.

And remember, managing the juggle of working and kids during summertime is hard. Hopefully by taking some time to plan and organise the weeks when the kids are off, it can make it a little bit smoother, and perhaps even enjoyable!!!

Read  more blogs for working parents HERE