The long Easter Break is now upon us. While children see it as a time to relax, play, sleep and break free from the normal routine, many parents may find it a challenge to juggle childcare, pay for special activities or fill the long days at home. Holidays, however, are important reminders that we all need time to rest, recharge and reconnect. They can be great times to really connect with our children outside of the normal routines of getting ready for school, getting there on time, getting home and doing homework, getting dinner ready and getting to bed. Below are some ideas to ensure that the holidays are relaxing for everyone in the family.
- Focus on Family Time. Even if you are working, try to carve out a few days for special family time. The normal rush of activities and schedules will be relaxed, so try to spend that extra time together as a family. This doesn’t need to be elaborate trips away—it could be anything from a day at the beach to a walk and picnic in a local park. It could also be special time at home doing an activity your child really loves—baking together, pottering in the garden, doing some special crafts or even snuggling under a blanket to watch a favourite film. Let you child choose what they want to do and follow their lead
- Relish the Boredom. We can all be tempted to overschedule our children and get them involved in lots of activities. Activities can be great for children, but, whatever their age, they have been working hard at school and coping with lots of different pressures. Let them (and yourself!) have some down time to just be
- Take some Time for Self– Parents need to take some time to look after themselves, and it is important that children see us doing so. So, carve out some time for yourself to meet up with friends, go to an exercise class, get your hair cut…whatever will help to make you feel relaxed and happy. Encourage your child to do something similar.
- Get Active. The longer evenings mean extra time to get out and explore. Being outside can be a great way of connecting with children, and it is great for both our physical and mental health. Take the real or imaginary dog out for a long walk—you’ll get some exercise, have a chance to talk to your child in a relaxed way and you might even reconnect with some of your neighbours after a long winter indoors.
- Plan some special meals together. We know that we should be eating meals with our children on a regular basis as it improves family communication and provides an opportunity to set a good example of social, healthy eating for our children. The demands of daily life, however, can mean that a system of grab and go operates in many households. Over the holidays, try to plan and prepare a special meal together. Involve the children in menu planning, shopping and cooking
This article was contributed by a member of Parenting Limerick.
