Surviving the summer holidays - any tips for a first timer?

[MsFrog]

I've realised, as half term hits me like a ton of bricks, that I'm dreading the 6 weeks holidays. This is our first year and so far I've realised I need to plan the school holidays way more than I do.

I've got a 5 year old and 2 year old. DH and I both juggling work and childcare throughout the hols, with a bit of help from grandparents.

Any tips on how to avoid everything descending into stressy madness much appreciated!

Don’t try to juggle too much if you can avoid it! Is the 2YO in term time only childcare? That’ll be tough but the 5YO should be fine with some organisation. Holiday camps are booking already in our area. And you can offer playdates with classmates when you’re off work in the hope it’ll be reciprocated. We have a splinter group off our main class whatsapp for anyone wanting to coordinate plans during the holidays, it wasn’t my idea but it works really well.

@FlounderingFruitcake thanks, I didn't think of playdates. So far, any playdate have meant the parent stayed too so it's just been more work!

2yo is in childcare 3 mornings over the summer, thank god!

Heya.

This is my advice. Find out about discounts at the theatre and cinema as far as possible. Meal plan extensively in order to save more money. You can buy your fresh fruit and veg at a farm shop in a nice garden centre or from a weekly farmer market in addition. You can even get a ton of free stuff. Best wishes.

Purchase own brand items at the supermarket in question each time. Do this when you have to go food shopping there. Look for the discounted yellow sticker. Keep a running diary of costs each week. Borrow free wine.