Emma Willars: Summer solutions to help ease working parent stress

As a working parent headed for the summer holidays, you may find yourself facing a dilemma: how to balance the demands of your job with the care and needs of your child during the extended break from school.

Fortunately, there are a variety of childcare services and solutions available, such as back-up care, play groups and holiday clubs, that can provide invaluable support and peace of mind for working families during this time.

Easing Any Parental Guilt

For many working parents, the decision to use childcare services can be accompanied by feelings of guilt or anxiety. However, it’s important to recognise that seeking out these services is not only beneficial for your work schedule but also for your child. By ensuring that they are well cared for and engaged in meaningful activities or pursuing their hobbies and interests, you can feel confident in your decision to prioritise both your work and your family’s wellbeing.

Planning Ahead for Summer Success

To make the most of services like Back-Up Care, in-home nanny sessions, extra nursery sessions or holiday clubs, it’s essential to plan ahead and arrange care that meets your family’s needs. This may involve checking whether your organisation has any childcare benefits or affiliations, researching and booking your chosen childcare services in advance, coordinating schedules with your employer and childcare providers, and communicating openly with your child about their plans for the summer holidays.

8 Practical Tips for Balancing Work and Childcare This Summer

1. Leverage Flexible Work Arrangements

Discuss with Your Employer: Before the summer starts, have a conversation with your employer about possible flexible work options. Many companies offer flexible hours, remote work opportunities, or compressed workweeks during the summer months.

Adjust Your Schedule: If possible, consider adjusting your working hours to start earlier or later, allowing you to spend more quality time with your child during the day or before and after their arranged care.

2. Create a Detailed Summer Schedule

Plan Activities in Advance: Map out a schedule that includes both your work commitments and your child’s activities. Being able to visualise the entire summer, as well as your day-to-day can be helpful when planning.

Involve Your Child: Let your child have a say in the activities they are interested in. This not only keeps them engaged but also helps them feel more involved and excited about their summer plans. The more excited they are, the less likely you are to feel guilt.

3. Utilise Technology for Better Coordination

Shared Calendars: Use digital tools like Google Calendar to keep track of everyone’s schedules. Share the calendar with your partner and / or other caregivers to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Activity Apps: There are numerous apps designed to keep children engaged with educational and fun activities. Incorporate these into their daily routine or on days when they’re at home to ensure they have a mix of screen time and active play.

4. Rotate Childcare Responsibilities

Coordinate with Other Parents: Team up with other working parents to create a childcare rotation. This way, you can share the responsibility of looking after the children, giving each parent some time to focus on work.

Family and Friends Network: On the days where you don’t have pre-arranged care, perhaps reach out to grandparents, relatives, or close friends for help if you have those options available. They can provide an extra set of hands and a change of environment for your child.

5. Prepare in Advance

Pack and Prep: If your child is attending a holiday club or a day camp, pack their bag the night before to ensure a smooth morning. Include all necessary items like snacks, water, sunscreen, and any specific gear needed for the day’s activities.

Meal Planning: Plan and prep meals in advance to save time during the week. Consider quick and healthy options that your child can enjoy without much hassle.

6. Encourage Independent Play

Set Up Play Zones: Create designated play areas in your home with a variety of toys, books, and art supplies. Encourage your child to explore these areas independently.

Structured Free Time: Balance structured activities with free playtime. This allows your child to use their imagination and develop self-reliance while you get work done.

7. Explore Local Resources

Community Programmes: Check out local libraries, community centres, and parks for free or low-cost summer programmes and events. These can provide additional enrichment and entertainment for your child.

Nature Exploration: Take advantage of the good weather by planning nature walks, picnics, or visits to nearby beaches and nature reserves after work or on the weekends. This is a great way to get some quality time together, while boosting your wellbeing and connecting with nature!

8. Stay Informed and Adaptable

Regular Updates: Stay informed about any changes in your work schedule or your child’s activities. Being adaptable and ready to adjust plans can help mitigate stress.

Feedback Loop: Regularly check in with your child about their experiences and feelings. Their feedback can help you make necessary adjustments to ensure they are having a fulfilling summer.

The Benefits of Childcare Services

Childcare services outside of regular school offer you flexible and reliable childcare options during the summer months. Whether it’s a sudden change in work schedule, unexpected childcare gaps, or simply the need for a day off, these Back-Up Care services can provide you with the reassurance that your child is in capable hands while also enjoying themselves and getting the most out of their holiday.

These childcare services not only alleviate the stress of finding last-minute childcare arrangements but also provide numerous benefits for children, making it a win-win for all. They offer opportunities for socialisation and connection, skill development, and exploration in a safe and supportive setting. From arts and crafts activities to outdoor adventures and educational excursions, holiday clubs, for example, offer a diverse range of experiences that enrich children’s summer holidays and nurture their growth and development.