01/08/2023
In short ... YES!
The key to balancing your business alongside entertaining the kids during the holidays is preparation and managing expectations. My boys are fully aware that although they have 6 weeks off school, Mum does not. Mum has a business to run, school uniform to buy among a million other tasks involved to keep this ship from going under.
Here's how I make it work relatively guilt free!
🪴Be realistic! I could make it a long, miserable 6 weeks by trying to continue to work the way I do during term time however, I much prefer to save myself the guilt and stress by reducing my work capacity during this time. This way, I get the best of both worlds. Time with the boys and time to work - which helps to keep me sane and pay for the endless snacks I have to provide them with!
🪴Check the weather forecast (don't laugh). I tend to work out when exactly im going to work based on this. Raining in the morning = work. Dry in the morning = work in the afternoon ... you get the gist.
On days where the weather gods are on your side, pack a picnic, take a ball (and the dog) and get outside! It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, kids are happiest when they can just be kids and enjoy running around, bug hunting, tree climbing and exploring. I also take some work with me so I can do some planning/reading while the boys are filling their faces with food.
🪴Space out days out! We try and pencil in a paid activity/day out at least once a week to give the boys something to look forward to and to break up the routine. Also, check your local council sites for free/low cost summer activities they can get involved in. Hobbycraft also have some lovely craft workshops for a little as £5!
🪴Keep some routine. During the holidays I still get up at the same time I would during term time. I then use that time (that I'd normally be doing packed lunches, school run) to go through my emails and write my to do for the day before walking the dog. I only write down high priority work, essentials that need to be done so not to overwhelm myself, anything other than what's on my list is a bonus and deserves a wine reward 🍷
🪴Get them involved! My kids love knowing more about what I do and love 'working with mum'. I give them some pretend tasks to do and they'll sit and design logos, write feedback forms, create graphics on canva etc. They also do scanning, filing, shredding and organising the office to help out.
The most important thing is to be realistic with your time and allow yourself to enjoy this time with them, they're not this little for long 💚
I'd love to know if you have any tips for getting through the holidays and hope you'll share some in the comments!
