Juggling Work and the School Holidays

The summer holidays can be challenging for families as they balance work responsibilities with their children's newfound freedom. Many companies now offer increased flexibility for remote work, making it easier for parents to manage childcare arrangements. Whether you're a seasoned pro or experiencing this situation for the first time, Junior Adventures Group UK has some practical tips to help you make the most of your summer holidays:

1. Create Separate Work and Family Areas:

   Designate specific spaces for work and family activities within your home. Having a dedicated home office or workspace can help you compartmentalise tasks and enable your children to understand when you're working. Separating "family time" from "professional time" can also positively impact your mental well-being.

2. Make a Summer Plan:

   Having a well-structured plan is essential, whether you're working from home with the kids or organising childcare. If you're arranging care for your children, consider using a calendar to jot down who will be looking after them on specific days or which clubs and activities they'll attend throughout the summer. For those managing childcare while working remotely, create a daily schedule visible to both you and your child. Include independent activities for your child during your work hours, interspersed with breaks and lunchtime so that you can enjoy some quality time together. Don't forget to set clear start and finish times for your workday.

3. Avoid Comparisons:

   Remember that what you see on social media is often just a curated glimpse into someone's life. Avoid comparing yourself and your summer holiday activities to others. Just because you may not have daily outings doesn't mean you're doing a bad job or your child isn't having fun. Focus on what works best for your family and enjoy your time together.

4. Establish Boundaries:

   Set clear boundaries with your children from the beginning of the holidays. Consider creating a fun and colourful "Summer Holiday Rules" poster together. This can help your children understand when engaging with you during work hours is appropriate and when they should give you space to focus.

5. Organize Snack Boxes:

   At the start of the holidays, prepare individual snack baskets or boxes for each of your children. These boxes will contain their snacks for the entire day, encouraging them to pace themselves and avoid consuming everything too quickly. This helps teach them self-discipline and prevents constant snacking throughout the day.

6. Introduce Holiday Water Bottles:

   Assign each child a water bottle for the entire day. This eliminates the need to search for multiple cups throughout the day (and once they've gone to bed!) and reduces the chances of spills. You can even place a jug of water or juice on the table at the beginning of the day or use bottles with pump tops, allowing your children to dispense their desired drink into their cups or bottles.

7. Consider Flexible Work Options:

   If possible, explore the option of working from home or taking personal days during the summer holidays. Discuss with your employer the potential for flexible work arrangements that suit both your professional commitments and family needs. Alternatively, taking a few personal days to spend quality time adventuring with your children can create lasting memories.

8. Book your space at a JAG Holiday Club:

   If you're looking for a fun and enriching experience for your child during the summer holidays, consider booking a space at a JAG Holiday Club. Here at JAG, we offer exciting holiday clubs with a wide range of activities to keep your child engaged and entertained throughout the break. Children can participate in various activities, including sports, arts and crafts, team challenges, and special event days. Our experienced and friendly staff ensure that each child has a memorable and enjoyable time in a safe and supervised environment. Book your child's space by clicking here.

At JAG, we understand that every family's situation is unique, and what matters most is finding a balance that works for you and your loved ones. Embrace the summer holidays positively, and make the most of this precious time together. Happy adventuring!