Kids all across the country are enjoying the last days of school before they break up for the much awaited summer holidays.
Parenting on Female First
Sadly, for parents, this time of the year is not greeted with the same excitement! Constantly keep the kids amused and having the think about childcare can often taint the joys of having the kids at home.
Here are some great tips from Professor Ewan Gillon, Dr Maria Gascon and Dr Ian Connor at First Psychology Scotland on how to survive the summer holidays!
1. Make a Plan
What will it take - for you and your kids – to have a great holiday? Try to plan ahead and look at options that allow you to spend time together, but also give the kids a chance to spend time with other kids and start making arrangements early on. Include your kids in the planning stage by asking about their own plans and integrating them into the family plans. And don’t forget to have a range of rainy day options up your sleeve!
2. Create a Routine
During the school year, our days are highly structured. Whilst the holidays are a good time to loosen these routines and generally slow down, both you and your kids will benefit from some kind of structure such as set play times and meal times. Spontaneity is great, but without any structure at all, kids can feel a bit lost and bored.
3. Build up a Support Network
Check with the kids’ school or nursery for a holiday programme. Community centres may also offer activities and events that allow kids to try something new, learn different skills and develop interests outside of their school curriculum.
4. Family is Key
If you’re lucky enough to have family members living close by, include them in your holiday preparations for day trips, sleepover etc. Visiting family members is a fantastic opportunity for your kids to bond and have fun with their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Your family will appreciate spending time with the kids, too, and it takes the pressure of you as a parent.
5. Mind your Work
Most working parents are unable to take time off work for the full duration of the holidays and even if you have flexible working arrangements, there will be a time when you do need to knuckle down in front of your laptop. Make sure these times are part of your joint holiday planning to avoid becoming more stressed out than you would be during the school year.
6. ‘No Parents Allowed’
Most children love socialising with their peers and the holidays are a great opportunity to arrange ‘play dates’ with their friends. Speak to fellow parents and your neighbours about taking turns in hosting the kids. This will allow you to retain some ‘me time’ whilst giving your kids a chance to develop social skills and simply enjoy themselves.