The school holidays are here — and while they promise sunny adventures and family memories, they also mean routines fly out the window and your time is no longer your own.
Between packed lunches, endless snack requests, playdates, day trips, and the constant cry of “Mum!” or “Dad!”, it’s easy to forget what a moment to yourself even looks like.
But here’s the truth: carving out a little “you time” isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Whether it’s five minutes of peace or a guilt-free hour to do something just for you, a little breathing space can make you feel more human (and less like a snack-dispensing robot).
Here’s how to make it happen:
1. Swap Lie-Ins for Early Starts (Just Sometimes)
It might sound counterintuitive, but setting your alarm just 30 minutes before the kids wake up can gift you a precious pocket of calm. Sip a coffee in peace, journal, scroll guilt-free, or squeeze in a quick workout — whatever makes you feel more you.
2. Plan a Weekly Babysitting Swap
Team up with another parent and take turns watching each other’s kids for a few hours. You get time off, they get a playdate, and everyone wins. Even better if you use your time to do something that fills your cup — not just the laundry.
3. Build Quiet Time Into the Day
Even older kids can benefit from an hour of downtime in the afternoon. Set up a quiet activity — books, puzzles, audiobooks or screens if needed — and make it a daily ritual. It’s not just for them: it’s a moment for you to reset too.
4. Use Screen Time Strategically
Let go of the guilt. An extra episode of Bluey or 20 minutes on the tablet won’t ruin them — but it can help you squeeze in a quick stretch, a face mask, or simply sit down with a cuppa that’s still hot.
5. Say Yes to Help (and Ask for It Too)
If a friend, partner or family member offers to step in — let them. And if no one offers, ask. Whether it’s an hour at the weekend or a solo supermarket trip that doesn’t involve a meltdown in aisle five, accept the support and don’t apologise for it.
6. Make Evening Wind-Downs Non-Negotiable
Once the kids are in bed, resist the urge to dive into chores. Light a candle, put on a face mask, read something non-Peppa Pig related — anything that signals “this is my time now.”
7. Remind Yourself: It’s Temporary
It’s a beautiful chaos, but it is just a season. These six weeks might feel long, but they’ll pass — and you deserve to enjoy the highs without burning out.
