Running a business whilst the kids are off school

July 12, 2023

Running a business while your children are off school can be a juggling act, but with proper planning and organization, you can find a balance between your work responsibilities and spending quality time with your children.

Here are some tips to help you manage your business during school holidays:

1. Set clear boundaries: Establish boundaries with your children by explaining your work responsibilities and the times when you need to focus on your business. Help them understand that there will be designated work hours during the day when you cannot be interrupted unless it's an emergency.
2. Create a schedule: Develop a schedule that combines work time and dedicated time with your children. Plan specific blocks of time for work, and communicate these hours to your children and any other household members. Make sure to include breaks
and leisure activities for everyone to enjoy together.
3. Utilise childcare options: Explore different childcare options available during school holidays. Look for summer camps, daycare centers, or hiring a babysitter/nanny to help you during your busiest work hours. Having someone to look after your children
can allow you to focus on your business tasks without interruptions.
4. Plan independent activities: Encourage your children to engage in independent activities during your work hours. Provide them with age-appropriate tasks, games, crafts, or educational materials that they can work on by themselves. This can keep
them occupied while you attend to your work responsibilities.
5. Flexibility and adaptability: Be flexible with your work schedule and adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Understand that some days may not go according to plan, and interruptions or changes in routine may occur. Embrace flexibility and adjust your
work expectations accordingly.
6. Delegate and outsource: Consider delegating or outsourcing certain tasks in your business during school holidays. Determine which tasks can be handed off to employees, freelancers, or virtual assistants. This can help free up some of your time
and allow you to focus on the most critical aspects of your business.
7. Prioritise and streamline: Identify your most important tasks and prioritize them during your work hours. Streamline your processes and focus on essential activities that drive your business forward. Avoid getting caught up in non-essential tasks or excessive multitasking, as it can lead to inefficiency and unnecessary stress.
8. Communicate with clients/customers: If you have clients or customers, communicate with them about your availability and any changes to your usual business hours during the school holidays. Set clear expectations regarding response times and inform them of any potential delays in delivering products or services.
9. Make the most of quality time: When you're not working, prioritise quality time with your children. Engage in activities that you can all enjoy together, such as outings, day trips, or special projects. Being fully present during this time will help strengthen
your bond and create lasting memories.
10. Take care of yourself: Self-care is crucial during busy times. Ensure you are getting enough rest, eating well, and taking breaks to recharge. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally will help you maintain energy and productivity throughout the school holidays.

Remember, finding a balance between work and family during school holidays can be challenging, but with planning, communication, and flexibility, you can successfully manage your business while enjoying quality time with your children.