As much as children need this summer break to relax and rejuvenate however parents feel the responsibility of keeping their children entertained whilst balancing work commitments which can lead to stress and burnout. Here is some advice to help you look after your families wellbeing during the summer break:
- Make a bucket list of activities you and your family want to do this summer. This will help give focus and will be a good opportunity to discuss family interests. Let your children have input on holiday plans.
- Consider practicing mindfulness to help relieve stress
- Get active both as individuals and as a family. Look for opportunities to be active together especially outdoors, it can be a great way to break up your day and release energy so your children will feel calmer.
- Communicate and share positive experiences and concerns with family and friends.
- Try a family digital detox. Take time away from devices as a family to spend quality time together, make sure you follow this detox too. This might encourage you to do family activities like cooking or baking together.
- Check out local summer schools and playgroups. These are great for keeping your children entertained whilst also ensuring they continue to learn. This will also give you opportunities to focus on other responsibilities or relax.
- Visit local attractions as lots of places like libraries, museums and parks offer free activities and learning opportunities. Discover some of these in the local area here- https://sheffield.mumbler.co.uk/days-out/free-activities/
- Have a box of creativity where your children can come and get involved in activities such as colouring or drawing. Fill it with crayons, pencils, paper and colouring books. This can encourage children to stay away from screens and can give you some time to relax knowing they are entertained.
- Follow the 5 ways to wellbeing: make sure you give yourself and your family a chance to connect, be active, take notice, learn and give back to the community. Find out more about this here- https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/mental-health-wellbeing/five-ways/6
Discover more advice on this topic using the following links:
Link 1- https://www.parenthub.co.uk/5-tips-for-summer-holiday-wellbeing/
Link 2- https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zx64r2p
Link 3-https://thewellbeingpractice.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Summer-holidays.pdf
