Summer Holidays and the Working Parent Juggle
Summer Holidays and the Working Parent Juggle
As the summer holidays approach, many parents aren’t daydreaming about sun loungers or family picnics. They’re wondering how they’re going to keep working a full week while schools shut their doors for six long weeks.
It’s a familiar feeling for many working parents. Whether you’re in the office, working remotely, or somewhere in between, the logistics of childcare, work, and keeping everyone fed and halfway sane can feel like a full-time job in itself.
The Hidden Pressure of Summer
On paper, it sounds manageable. A few days of annual leave, maybe a holiday club or two, and some help from family. But in reality, it’s rarely that simple.
Clubs book up quickly and can cost a small fortune. Grandparents might not live nearby. And trying to answer emails while your child builds a pillow fort beside you? That’s not “flexibility.” That’s chaos.
Even with the best intentions and planning, the summer holidays can bring stress, guilt, and a whole lot of exhaustion.
The Guilt Trap
You’re not alone if you feel torn. Guilt has a way of creeping in from both sides — guilt for not being with your children enough, and guilt for not being fully present at work.
The pressure to keep all the plates spinning perfectly can feel overwhelming. But struggling doesn’t mean you’re doing it badly. It means you’re human, and you’re doing your best with limited time and a long to-do list.
A Few Things That Can Help
Talk to your employer early. If you know the school holidays are going to be a squeeze, have the conversation in advance. Temporary adjustments to your hours or remote working arrangements are sometimes easier to arrange than you think.
Be honest with yourself. You don’t have to take on everything. Say no when you need to. Protect your energy.
Spread out your time off. A long weekend here and there can make a real difference to the rhythm of the summer.
Lean on your network. If you have people who can help, let them. Whether it’s a playdate swap or a day with the grandparents, small breaks are invaluable.
Most importantly, take the pressure off. This season is demanding. You’re not expected to breeze through it with a smile plastered on. Just getting through is enough.
Looking Ahead
If the summer holidays leave you feeling stretched thin every year, you’re not alone — and it’s okay to start questioning whether your current setup is still working for you.
Work-life balance means different things to different people, and what felt manageable a year ago might not feel the same now. Sometimes it’s not about making big changes, but about finding a role or environment that better supports your reality — especially when that includes family life.
We speak to a lot of parents who are trying to make it all work. We get it. If you ever want to talk through your options, or just need some advice on what’s out there, we’re always happy to help.
You can browse current opportunities or get in touch here:
https://dovetailrecruitment.co.uk/candidates/
Dovetail Recruitment are an independent Recruitment Agency in Bournemouth. Follow us to keep up to date with The South’s Job Market Report, Recruitment in Hampshire & Dorset + HR news, as well as our latest jobs, career tips + everything else related to your working world.
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