by Justine Szalay, Holistic Coach

School holidays can often bring a mix of excitement and dread for parents. While there’s joy in having more time to spend with your children, there’s also the challenge of balancing work, household responsibilities, and keeping the kids entertained. The mental load goes through the roof – amiright?! However, if you plan ahead and use some of the tips below, you just might be able to transform the chaos of school holidays into a time that’s enjoyable for everyone.

Set your intentions and expectations together. As always, communication is key. Sit down as a family and discuss your expectations, desires, and plans for the break. Encourage your children to share their ideas for activities and outings, and be open to compromise and negotiation. By involving everyone in the decision-making process, you can ensure that each family member feels heard and valued and that everyone’s needs are taken into account.

Establish a flexible routine. While structure is important, especially for kids, it’s also essential to allow for some spontaneity and flexibility. Create a loose schedule that includes time for activities, meals, and downtime, but be open to adjusting it based on the daily needs of your family. Sometimes alternating days of exciting activities with calmer, predictable days spent at home or within walking distance can support everyone’s nervous systems to rebalance.

Prioritise quality time together as a family. School holidays can provide the perfect opportunity to reconnect as a family. Plan fun activities and outings that everyone can enjoy, whether it’s a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a movie night at home. We love to look at Engage Northern Beaches for local events and school holiday activities.  By prioritising this time together, it helps to build a connection that will carry you through the busy days ahead.

Find moments for yourself. It’s so easy for us parents to neglect our own needs while focusing on our children, but self-care is essential for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Make time each day for one thing that nourishes you, whether it’s going for a family walk after work, taking a bath after the kids go to bed, or simply taking a few moments to breathe through the chaos. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so taking care of yourself is not only important for your own well-being but also for the well-being of your family.

Transitioning from busy to balanced during school holidays requires intention, communication, and a willingness to prioritise what truly matters. So, as the school holidays approach, remember to take a deep breath, embrace the opportunities for growth and connection, and savour the moments spent with your loved ones. And if all else fails, book an appointment with one of our practitioners for some emotional support.