Balancing act: Working from home during school holidays

For many working parents, the school holidays bring an added amount of juggling professional responsibilities while caring for children at home. The house becomes a lively mix of work calls, snack requests, and spontaneous playtime. While these moments can be joyful, they also come with emotional strain when splitting your time between both. 
 
The pressure to be fully present in both roles can lead to feelings of guilt, frustration, and exhaustion. The mental load of switching between tasks and trying to create meaningful experiences for your children can quietly build over time. It’s easy to feel like you’re falling short, even when you’re doing your best. 

It's important to acknowledge both demands and find ways to adapt to the needs of work during the school holidays, as well as fulfilling your role as a parent.  We’re here to help you navigate the work-life balance. 

Practical strategies for working parents during summer holidays 

Communicate with your manager or employer 

Be open about the challenges of this period and any flexibility you may need. Whether it’s adjusting your hours, working in split shifts, or taking occasional leave, transparency is the best step forward. Most employers appreciate honesty and will work with you to find solutions. Communicating openly with your team is also essential. Keeping them informed about your availability helps manage expectations and fosters trust and understanding. 

Make use of holiday clubs and local activities 

If available to you, holiday clubs, sports camps, or local community activities can offer structured, engaging environments for children — giving you dedicated time to focus on work. Some councils and organisations offer subsidised or free options, so it’s worth exploring what’s nearby. 

Plan  your calendar in advance

Look ahead at your work commitments and your children’s needs. Block out time for key meetings and family activities. This helps reduce last-minute stress and gives you a clearer sense of control. 

Involve your children in planning

Let your children help build a daily or weekly schedule. Giving them a sense of ownership can reduce interruptions and help them understand when you're working and when you're available. 

Simplify household tasks 

Lower the pressure by streamlining your daily life admin— batch cook meals, use online grocery delivery, or delegate tasks where possible. Freeing up mental space helps you focus better on both work and parenting. 

Connect with other parents 

Reach out to other working parents for support, tips, or even shared childcare arrangements. You’re not alone and sometimes just knowing others are in the same boat can be a huge relief. 

Mental health tips for working parents during the holidays

Time blocking with flexibility

Divide your day into focused work sessions and family-friendly break times. This helps you stay productive while also being present for your children.  

Set soundaries 

Establish clear start and end times to your workday. This helps you mentally switch off and be fully present with your family. Boundaries also reduce the risk of burnout and help maintain a sense of routine. 

Access mental health support 

Able Futures, delivered by Ingeus, offers no cost, confidential support for your mental health at work. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, we're here to help you feel better and stay well. 

The summer holidays can be a beautiful time to connect with your children, but they don’t have to come at the cost of your wellbeing. With the right strategies and support, you can find balance, protect your mental health, and enjoy the season. 

Learn more about how Able Futures can support you and your workplace.