Most people, especially kids, can’t wait for the summer holidays; time for lazing about, cloud watching and drifting.  However, amidst the excitement and anticipation, it’s common for family stress to arise: conflicting schedules, differing expectations, and the pressure to make the most of the time off.   This is especially true for a holiday away from home.  Here are some ideas to help prepare:

Communicate!  Have a family meeting where everyone can express what they would like to do.  Set realistic goals for the summer break.  Going to the seaside every day with an hour journey will probably not be sustainable!

Make a plan taking into account all of the above an including:

• Dentists
• Haircuts and school-shoe buying
• Outings

Have some activities up your sleeve just in case, like a picnic on a lovely day, a trip to the sea or a swim.

Make a list and put it on the fridge for everyone to see.

Be flexible!  Not everything will go exactly as planned so be prepared to adapt when unexpected circumstances arise. Remain open to alternative ideas. By cooperating and being flexible you can deal with the unpredictability of the weather and have a laugh at the same time!  When I was a kid, we once spent a whole week camped in our living room playing a huge game of Monopoly while the heavens opened!

Quality not Quantity: While it’s tempting to pack the summer holidays with numerous activities and outings, remember that quality time is more important.  Everyone is tired from a long school year and a year of work so allow for plenty of rest early on.   Prioritise shared experiences that create connection and lasting memories. Whether it’s a simple picnic in the park, a family game night, simple pleasures are precious.

Rest!  Allow down-time for everyone. Encourage each person to engage in activities for their well-being, such as exercise and spending time on hobbies.  And also allow for lying about getting bored time.  Being bored is a great way to kick start being inventive and creative; there’s nothing like a good rest, especially after the past few years.

Keep a holiday book with outing memories, pictures, travel tickets and little mementoes of the holiday to look back on?  

It is possible to manage family stress during the summer holidays or at least to prepare for it!   Be open, communicate, plan some time, allow time for lying around and resting and be flexible.   Keep a holiday book with outing memories, pictures, travel tickets and little mementoes of the holiday to look back on.  Those memories can be precious and remind you of long, hot days together.

Book a call if you feel now if you feel under pressure!