The Holistic Coach

For many working parents, the summer holidays are a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they offer precious time to make memories with your children. On the other, they can bring rising stress levels as you try to juggle work, childcare, household responsibilities, and, somewhere in the mix, your own wellbeing.

As a coach who supports individuals to manage stress, set boundaries, and create more balance in their lives, I often hear how challenging this period can be. The good news? With a little reflection and planning, the summer holidays can feel less like a strain - and more like an opportunity.

Here are some coaching-informed tips, practical strategies, and resources to help you navigate the summer with more ease and energy.

🧭 1. Start with self-awareness

It’s okay to find this time of year hard. You are not alone. Many parents feel torn between competing priorities, especially if working from home, freelancing, or managing inconsistent childcare.

Coaching Tip: Take 10 minutes to reflect on these questions:

• What am I expecting of myself this summer?
• Are those expectations kind, fair, and realistic?
• What do I need to feel more grounded?

Remember: You’re not a machine. Recognising your needs is the first step to protecting your energy.

📅 2. Build a flexible structure

While the idea of a carefree summer is appealing, in reality, children and adults both benefit from some routine. A loose weekly plan can help everyone know what to expect.

Try This: 

Use a whiteboard or printed calendar to map out key activities (work time, outings, screen time, quiet time).

Build in free time as well as structured fun.

If you’re co-parenting or sharing care, use a shared calendar like Google Calendar to coordinate.

🛠️ 3. Get practical with childcare

Even a few hours of childcare a week can make a huge difference to your stress levels and ability to focus.

Explore options:

• Holiday clubs: Many schools, leisure centres and community organisations run affordable summer activities. Check https://www.activitycamp.co.uk/ or your local council website.
• Childcare vouchers or tax-free childcare: If eligible, you can get government help with the cost of summer care. Visit www.childcarechoices.gov.uk  for more info.
• Share the load: Coordinate with friends or family for shared playdates, or consider a “childcare swap” with another parent.

🧘‍♀️ 4. Make space for you

It’s easy to put yourself last. But your needs don’t disappear just because the kids are off school.

Small ways to prioritise yourself:

• Set a daily “pause moment” just for you—whether it’s morning coffee, a short walk, or listening to a favourite song. 
• Book non-negotiable downtime - even 20 minutes can help.
• Use mindfulness apps like Headspace, Insight Timer, or Calm for a mental reset.

🗣️ 5. Communicate with work and set boundaries

Don’t assume colleagues know what you’re dealing with. Be upfront about your availability and explore flexible options.

Practical tips:

• Block out family time in your calendar in advance.
• Use out-of-office responses if needed - even for short windows.
• Talk to your manager about flexibility or reduced hours during the holidays, if feasible.
• If you're self-employed, consider adjusting your service offerings, batching tasks, or using automation tools to reduce your workload during peak holiday weeks.

💬 6. Involve your children

Children often respond positively when they’re included in planning and understand the ‘why’ behind your boundaries.

Try this:

• Create a summer “wish list” together - include low-cost or free ideas.
• Use colour-coded time blocks (e.g. red = parent working, green = together time).
• Encourage independent play, boredom-busting boxes, or themed activity days.
• Free resources like The Woodland Trust’s Nature Detectives or BBC Tiny Happy People offer inspiration for simple, home-based activities.

🌟 7. Focus on meaningful moments

You don’t have to be a full-time entertainer or plan Pinterest-worthy adventures. What your child will remember most are the moments of presence, play, and connection.

Coaching reflection:

Ask yourself: What really matters this summer?

If you had to pick three core memories to create - what would they be?

Then build your weeks around those.

🧺 Helpful UK based resources for parents

• Childcare Choices (for tax-free childcare and support): www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
• Local Authority Holiday Clubs: Search “[your council] + holiday childcare”
• The Family Line (support helpline): www.family-action.org.uk  | Call 0808 802 6666
• Gingerbread (for single parents): www.gingerbread.org.uk
• Mental Health & Parent Wellbeing: www.mind.org.uk

www.actionforhappiness.org

Parenting during the summer holidays can be intense, but it can also be joyful, grounding, and an opportunity for you and your children to grow.  As a coach, I encourage you to let go of perfection, get intentional with your time, and treat yourself with the same kindness you offer your children.

You don’t have to do it all. You just have to do what’s right for you, and your family.