One Month to Go: A Parent’s Guide to Surviving the Final Weeks of the School Holidays (Without the Guilt)

Let’s be honest. Six weeks is a long time.

The kids are home, the fridge is never full, the living room has been transformed into an obstacle course, and your to do list? Still untouched. If you are running out of steam, ideas or patience… we see you.

There is still a month of summer to go and if you are feeling overwhelmed, you are not doing it wrong. You are doing your best.

Here is your permission slip: it is okay to take a break

Parenting does not come with annual leave. But it should come with support. And that is where this guide comes in. Whether you need a full day of activities or just a few pockets of peace, there are small ways to make these final weeks feel a bit more manageable.

Here are some ideas that can help.

1. Try a simple weekly rhythm

Not a strict schedule, just a loose plan. Monday might be a park day, Tuesday a visit to grandparents, Wednesday a movie afternoon. When kids know what to expect, there is less pressure on you to constantly entertain.

2. Swap childcare with a friend

If you have another parent in the same boat, take turns hosting each other's children for a few hours. It is a change of scene for them and a much needed breather for you.

3. Lower the bar on mess

Create a yes space where kids can build, paint, craft or just let loose, knowing it will not impact the whole house. You are not failing if the dining table is covered in glitter or the garden turns into a water park.

4. Get outside, even briefly

You do not need to plan a big day out. A walk around the block, time at the local playground or lunch on a picnic rug can help shift the energy when cabin fever kicks in.

5. Let them be bored

Really. It is okay. Boredom often leads to creativity but it also gives you a break from the expectation to fill every minute.

And when you need a full reset, SuperCamps is here

A day at camp can make all the difference. It gives children a chance to get stuck into activities, try something new and build friendships. From zorbing ball races and team challenges to chilled out crafts and games, they will come home happy and tired and you will have had some space to breathe.

No mess. No screen time battles. No guilt.

Camp is not just a break for parents. It is a brilliant experience for children too.

Summer is still in full swing

You have made it this far. And there is still time to find some calm, fun and flexibility in these last few weeks. Whether you mix in a few camp days, embrace some slow mornings or find moments of quiet in between the chaos, you are doing great.

Because the summer holidays should work for everyone, including you.