Half-term Holidays are coming up for the kids; so, if you’re a parent also working from home, you might have some extra entertaining to do. Obviously, with lockdown impending, you can’t send your kids to their friends’ houses to get them out of your hair, or even a play area as most are closed.
Alternatively, you might be feeling guilty that you can’t spend time with them because you have commitments. It’s a shame that adults aren’t entitled to the same school breaks — I think we deserve it more! Nevertheless, here are some tips on how to be a real-life Superhero.
Plan Your Schedule
WFH gives you some flexibility so that you can arrange your own day and complete tasks at your pace. Try getting up an hour before the rest of the house does to get a head-start; you’ll feel more at ease knowing you’ve ticked something off the list with minimal distraction. This also gives you more time to spend with your kids. Also, block out time to coordinate your breaks; set aside an hour during the working day to have lunch or go on a walk together.
Create Physical Boundaries
If your kids are at an age where they understand you need to work, inform them you can’t be disturbed during set times. Maybe find a space in the house where you can work in peace, or tell your kids they’re not allowed in this room until 6 pm. It might seem like you’re kicking a puppy in the face if they get upset, but emphasise the fact that you will play later. Also, if the walls are thin and you know your kids are monsters (sometimes) consider buying some earplugs to help you focus. When you’re on a zoom call or meeting, inform your team and manager that there might be some interruptions and to be mindful.
Sync-up Your Diaries
If teachers have your best interests at heart, they will have set homework over half-term. Hallelujah! No one is saying you need to turn your house into a school, but you can encourage your kids to complete these tasks before they need to, and prevent that midnight panic the day before it’s due. (We’ve all been there…) Try setting an hour for “concentration-time” so that you can all get your heads down and work. Put your phones away too. This is also an opportunity to be a great role model, and kids love acting like their mum or dad! If the silence is too disconcerting, put on a playlist that boosts productivity. You want to avoid music that makes you break into song and dance.
Rewards (for you and kids)
When your kids practise good behaviour, reinforce this with a treat or reward. Don’t forget to treat yourself too! Some primary schools have a “Golden Time” every Friday afternoon for an hour, which is both motivating and gives them something to get excited about. So use this idea and incorporate it into your own working life. Maybe your Golden Hour could be ordering takeaway, having a movie night or popping to the shops to buy sweets. Life isn’t always about work, and we need to learn how to treat ourselves.
Keep Them Occupied
Depending on the age range, there are plenty of indoor activities your kids can do, that will ensure you can focus on working. Buy them a new book, encourage them to bake something yummy or do some arts&crafts to get creative. Some baked goods can take up to 3 hours to whip up — that is solid grind time for you! YouTube offers some great DIY hacks that will definitely keep them entertained, and also reduces their screen time. Did someone say, Parent of the Year?
Living On A Budget
For some families, you might not have the resources to have a “fun-filled” half-term or even afford to take time off work because money’s a bit tight. There are plenty of low-cost activities you can do at home, that are often more fun than a trip to a theme park. With Halloween coming up, you could even go pumpkin picking for a laugh! There are loads of patches around the UK, so find your local farm. I only spent £3 when I went recently — cheap as chips!
Book Time Off
If you want to actually have a break yourself and spend quality time with your family stress-free, then do it! You can temporarily leave your double life and concentrate on having fun. Plan what you want to do together, maybe a stay-cay in the UK or trip to a national park. It’s also a good opportunity to have a mental cleanse and recharge, preparing yourself for a fresh week at work.
Remember to Breathe
Being a parent is no easy task. Of course, you want your kids to have fun, but you still have responsibilities. It’s okay if on some of those days things don’t go to plan. Sometimes you have to let go and don’t panic — things will get done. We’re often preoccupied with being productive and prioritising our work, that we forget to live. This year, more than any other, has taught us how to appreciate what we have. For the majority, that’s being able to cherish moments with our loved ones without feeling guilty. Embrace the imperfections, be present and embody your inner child!
If you need more support, check out this Help Guide for parents.
Written by Naida Allen
Naida is a Criminology and Psychology graduate who is passionate about promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. She is a creative writer/blogger and runs an online platform with a close friend called ‘Confidently Anxious’ — which aims to help others struggling with their mental health by sharing personal stories and coping tips. She currently volunteers as a Peer Mentor for young persons.
