07.07.2023

10 survival tips for working parents ahead of summer holidays

With schools soon to break up for the summer, a recent study revealed 45% of parents feel burnout trying to juggle their career and spending time with their children.

Ben Austin, CEO & Founder at Absolute Digital Media has commented on the importance of finding the right balance between work and spending time with your children during the school holidays:

"As a CEO and a parent, I want to emphasise the vital role that work plays in our lives, alongside the precious moments we spend with our children during school holidays. Finding the delicate balance between these two realms can be incredibly challenging, especially when work responsibilities exert immense pressure. However, it's crucial to recognise that our professional endeavours not only provide for our families but also serve as a source of personal fulfilment and growth.

"Navigating this balance requires intentional effort and effective time management. By carving out quality moments dedicated solely to our children during the school holidays, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to their wellbeing and happiness.”

10 ‘survival’ tips to help you juggle work and childcare this summer:

Plan ahead - Start planning your work schedule and childcare arrangements well in advance. Consider enrolling your child in summer camps, programmes, or arranging reliable childcare options that align with your work hours.
Flexibility in work hours - If possible, discuss with your employer the possibility of adjusting your work hours during the summer holidays. Explore flexible working arrangements such as remote work, adjusted schedules, or compressed workweeks.
Share responsibilities - Communicate with your partner, family members, or friends who can help share childcare responsibilities. Collaborate on a schedule that allows each person to contribute and balance their work commitments.
Set boundaries - Establish clear boundaries between work and family time. Create designated workspaces and communicate to your family members when you need uninterrupted time for work.
Time blocking - Utilise time blocking techniques to allocate specific time slots for work and childcare activities. This approach helps maintain focus and ensures that both work and family obligations receive adequate attention.
Utilise technology - Make use of technology tools and resources to facilitate remote work and stay connected with your colleagues. Utilise productivity apps, video conferencing platforms, and project management tools to streamline work tasks.
Engage in educational activities - Explore educational and engaging activities for your children during your work hours. Look for online educational programmes, virtual workshops, or local community activities that align with their interests.
Create a daily routine - Establish a consistent daily routine that includes structured activities for your children, such as morning reading time, outdoor play, arts and crafts, or other age appropriate activities. A routine provides structure and allows you time away to work when they’re kept busy.
Take breaks together - Schedule regular breaks where you can spend quality time with your children. Whether it’s an activity, spending time outside, in the park, meals together or simply talking. It helps strengthen your bond and provides a sense of connection.
Prioritise self-care - Remember to prioritise self-care to prevent burnout. Take breaks for yourself, engage in activities you enjoy, and seek support from your support network. Self-care enables you to recharge and be more present for both work and childcare responsibilities.