Surviving (and Thriving) During Half Term & School Holidays: A Parent's Guide to Balance, Wellbeing and Sanity

Balancing home life and work during half term and school holidays is both challenging and rewarding.

Half term and summer holidays can be a mix of joy and stress for parents. While it’s a precious time to make memories with your children, it also brings challenges; balancing work, childcare, rising costs and your own mental health.

Here’s a practical guide to help parents not just survive the holidays, but find moments of calm and connection along the way.

1. Plan (Loosely) Ahead

Having a rough plan for the week can help reduce stress, for both you and your children. It doesn’t have to be rigid, but a simple calendar with a mix of activities, quiet days and childcare coverage can make the break feel more manageable.

• Use a shared family calendar

• Look out for free local events (libraries, community centres or museums often run free or low-cost activities)

• Schedule quiet time; for you and the kids

  
  

  

  
  

2. Balance Work and Childcare Creatively

Working while the kids are home? You’re not alone. Here are a few strategies to help balance that challenging situation:

• Shift your hours: If possible, start early or finish late to free up middle-of-the-day family time.

• Team up with other parents: Set up childcare swaps, a few hours of playdate in exchange for the same another day.

• Use screen time wisely: It’s okay to lean on screens occasionally, just choose content that’s engaging or educational and give yourself permission not to feel guilty.

  
  

3. Keep Costs Down Without Losing Fun

Half term and school holiday activities can quickly add up. But kids don’t need extravagant plans to feel special.

• Make a “boredom jar”: Fill it with fun, free ideas like a nature scavenger hunt, baking or building a blanket fort.

• Use nature as your playground: Parks, woods, beaches; let your children burn off energy in green spaces.

• Set a small budget for treats or outings so you can enjoy them without worry. Maybe ask the children to help decide how to spend that budget - give them some say over what happens next.

  

  Set a budget and help the children decide how to spend it during school breaks - they'll love it!

4. Protect Your Mental Health

School breaks can stretch your patience and energy. Taking care of your own wellbeing is essential, not selfish.

• Take 10 minutes for yourself daily: Read, meditate, walk or just breathe quietly.

• Say no to overscheduling: It’s okay to have slow days.

• Talk to someone: Whether it’s a friend, partner, relative or therapist; don’t bottle up your stress.

  
  

Remember, kids pick up on your energy. Caring for yourself helps you show up better for them.

5. Let Go of Perfection

You don’t need to create a picture-perfect school break. What your kids will remember is your presence, not the craft activity that didn’t pan out or the trip that didn’t happen.

Final Thought:

School holidays are hard work; emotionally, logistically and financially. But with a bit of planning, self-compassion and community, they can also be deeply rewarding.

You’re doing better than you think, so give yourself some credit. You're doing the best you can!

If you're struggling with something bigger and need support, we have specialists who can see you or your child within days. Find out more about Schoen Clinic Chelsea today.