Need a Break from the Break? How to Survive (& Reset) These School Holidays

You breathe a sigh of relief as the term ends… but then the holidays begin.

No more lunchbox packing, no last-minute sock hunts, no frantic school drop-offs while chugging lukewarm coffee. The pace finally slows — at least in theory.

But the reality is: transitioning to school holidays can feel like trading one kind of chaos for another.

Suddenly, you're juggling a whole new set of logistics — school holiday camps, playdates, sibling squabbles, screen-time negotiations, constant snack requests, and endless demands for “just one more” game, outing, or sweet treat.

You’re still “on.” Still responsible. Still needed. But this time, out of the more predictable routine of the school term.

If you're feeling more burnt out than rested in the so-called ‘break’, you're not alone. Holidays can be deceptively demanding — so much so, we barely have a moment to acknowledge the load we are under.

Why School Holidays Are So Exhausting for Parents

Let’s be honest — going on a holiday with kids is more accurately described as parenting in a different location. All the usual responsibilities still apply, plus there’s the extra researching, packing, and planning.

You’re likely the one booking family-friendly accommodations, organising fun outings, keeping track of the budget, and figuring out how to cram everything into the suitcase.

Staying home doesn’t necessarily mean rest, either. You might feel pressure to fill the days with novel experiences — or at the very least, activities that burn off energy and minimise screentime.

No matter where you are, chances are you’re also the emotional sponge — absorbing every mood swing, meltdown, and moment of boredom along the way.

Add in the mental load of managing everyone’s needs, transitions, and expectations, and it’s no wonder so many parents hit emotional overload right when they’re “meant” to be relaxing.

Acknowledge the Burnout

If your patience is wearing thin, if you're snapping more than usual, or if you’ve resorted to hiding in the bathroom just to get a moment of quiet — you’re not failing. You’re probably just exhausted.

Burnout isn’t just physical fatigue. It’s emotional depletion. And it often shows up when we don’t have space to recharge — or permission to admit we need it.

This season can feel relentless. But your needs matter too.

School Holidays Survival Guide

For those secretly counting down to the new term — take heart. There are ways to support yourself through what can feel like a messy, non-stop school holidays.

✅ Simplify where you can. You don’t have to be your child’s full-time entertainer. Boredom breeds creativity — and it’s okay for your kids to experience it.

✅ Share the load. Whether it's your partner, family, or a trusted friend, ask for help. School holidays aren’t meant to be a solo mission.

✅ Notice what’s working. Look out for the rhythms, routines, or attitudes that are making things a little easier and best meet your family's needs.

✅ Take care of yourself. Give yourself permission to sneak in micro-moments that nourish you. A solo cuppa on the porch, a few slow breaths in the car, or putting on a podcast while you tidy. Small pauses count — and the whole family benefits from a more resourced parent.

Reset and Regroup for the Term Ahead

While the holidays might not offer the rest you were hoping for, they can be a chance to reset. To reflect. To regroup. Even small moments of recalibration can make a big difference as you prepare for the term ahead.

✅ Set intentions for the new term. Now is the perfect time to think about what small changes you’d like to make when school returns — for your sake and your child’s.

✅ Reset the morning routine. How do you want mornings to feel? What habits or patterns aren’t serving you? What would make things a bit smoother?

✅ Problem-solve together. Put your heads together and think through new routines or systems you can trial this term — especially around mornings, transitions, homework, or screen time.

Want Help Creating Smoother Mornings?

While the holidays might be wild, they also offer a window — a chance to prepare for the return of school routine with more clarity and calm.

If mornings have been a source of stress for your family, now’s the perfect time to download my FREE Calmer Mornings Guide. It’s packed with simple, practical strategies to help you lead your family through the morning routine with more ease and connection.

➡️ [Grab your FREE Calmer Mornings Guide here.]

The school holidays might not always feel like a break.

But with a little reflection, some permission to breathe, and the right tools in hand — you can come out the other side feeling grounded and ready for the term ahead.

We’re in this together — one breath, one moment, one morning at a time.