How to Survive the Summer Holidays and Stay Emotionally Sane
Let’s be honest. The idea of the summer holidays is always dreamy at first.
No school runs. No packed lunches. Slower mornings. More time together. It all sounds lovely… until the third day hits and someone’s crying because their banana broke in half and you’re wondering how it’s still not bedtime.
The truth is summer can be emotionally exhausting - for both children and adults.
Routines are flipped upside down. The predictability that helps children feel safe and regulated disappears and in its place we get “What are we doing today?” on repeat from 6am. Add in siblings who are suddenly in each other’s space 24/7 and it’s no wonder emotions run high.
Then there’s the pressure. To make it magical. To plan days out. To spend quality time. To keep the house tidy. To stop the snacks from vanishing like you’re feeding a pack of wild animals. All while trying to keep your own head above water.
Let’s not even mention the cost. Days out, ice creams, extra fuel, last-minute plans, activities and more snacks. The holidays can feel like a financial black hole and you’re still left wondering how you’re meant to be doing all this with a smile on your face.
But here’s what I want you to hear…
You don’t have to do it all. You don’t need a full itinerary or big expensive days out. You are not failing if your summer doesn’t look like Pinterest.
A trip to the park with a blanket and a few sandwiches? That counts. Watching a film together with the curtains drawn and popcorn in a bowl? That counts. Water play in the garden with the washing up bowl? Absolutely that counts.
Summer is not about perfection. It’s about connection. It’s okay if your children get bored sometimes. It’s okay if you need to hide in the kitchen for five minutes just to breathe. It’s okay if it all feels a bit much.
If you find emotions are running high in your house - whether it’s your child’s or your own... that’s normal. Transitions like the summer holidays can really stir things up. No routine, different expectations, a change of pace and more stimulation can make it harder for children to regulate and for you to feel like you’re doing enough.
You’re not alone in feeling this way.
At my Wellbeing Hub in Larkhill and across Wiltshire I offer gentle emotional support for children and families through therapies like Drawing and Talking, Sandplay and emotional literacy sessions. Sometimes just having that regular safe space to offload and reconnect can make a world of difference, during the holidays and beyond.
So here’s your reminder…
You don’t need to be a super parent. You just need to be you.
You’ve got this.
Even if the snack cupboard says otherwise.
Katie
Embracing Emotions, Enhancing Lives