Summer holidays
Simple ways to enjoy the sunshine.
Summer holidays are a special time in Australia. The Christmas rush gives way to long, lazy days with beach trips, barbecues, sunshine and sport. But when the days are long and hot, many people find themselves under a lot of pressure. Our hope is that you can discover your happy place these holidays.
F.O.S.H. (Fear of summer holidays)
It is common to feel a level of anxiety during this supposedly silly season. Some reasons people can feel overwhelmed include additional childcare requirements, extra holiday costs, extensive to-do lists and feeling the need to entertain "bored" kids.
Making the most of your holidays
We hear you - summer holidays can be tiresome. But as schedules change and the household mood shifts, this is actually a perfect time to reassess and reflect on what's most important in life. Your usual routine might feel out of whack, but we want to encourage you to change the lens of your outlook to embrace new adventures and connect more deeply with the people in your life. For those with young children, remember you only have 18 summers with your child, and this is one of them!
Activity: What are some of the pressures you feel during the summer holidays?
Our 5 tips for a joy-filled holiday
1. Keep it simple
It can be tempting to pack out your holidays, but make sure you leave open space to relax and connect with loved ones, neighbours, or friends. Work out what's essential these holidays and talk about what you decide to let go. Be intentional about where your money is being spent.
2. Screen time limitations
Set reasonable expectations about technology use. Too much screen time means the holidays won't be as recharging and health promoting as they could be. The family will follow your lead, so make sure you are setting the example. Some house rules could be:
- 60 minute limit in the morning
- No screens between 9am - 4pm
3. Socialise
Plan outings to connect with friends, extended relatives or others - suggest to meet up for a barbecue, go to the park or plan house visits.
4. It's okay for yourself (and your kids) to 'just be'
We don't need to always be entertained. Allow time and space for rest (for everyone!), and create opportunities for creativity, exploration and problem solving.
5. Start planning a "staycation"
A staycation means cutting down on travel expenses. It's an intentional way to see your hometown through the eyes of a tourist!
Money Matters
- We’ve put together a ‘mini-budget’ to help you plan and set aside amounts for specific costs like a holiday or staycation.
Think like a tourist
- What would you tell friends or family visiting your area to see or do? Ask around for recommendations and search local papers or online for free events coming up.
Brainstorm
- Make sure activities are affordable and achievable. Some indoor examples include craft activities, board games, baking, pyjama days. Some outdoor examples include picnics, bush walks, bike rides, scavenger hunt.
Plan time
- Write a list of everything - more than you can do - then plot your staycation!
Activity
What brought you joy over the holidays?
What recharged you?
How could you bring those things into the New Year?
Start thinking and planning for the next one!
