Surviving School Holidays: Smart Tips to Keep Your Sanity

The school holidays are here! For parents, that means more time with the kids—yay! But let’s be honest, it also means balancing work, life, and keeping the kids entertained, all while trying to stay sane. If you’ve ever thought, How do other parents manage this chaos?, you’re not alone.

At TWO CUBS, we understand the challenges of school holidays, and we’re here to help with smart, practical tips and tools to make these weeks enjoyable for the whole family.

The Reality of School Holidays

Let’s face it: school holidays can be a whirlwind. Whether you’re working full-time, juggling remote work, or managing the household, it’s a lot to take on. And when the kids are complaining they’re bored? It’s enough to make you question your life choices.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it all. School holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about finding balance. Sometimes that means saying yes to downtime and no to guilt.

Tag-Team Parenting and Playdate Swaps

Parents often find relief by teaming up with friends or neighbours. Playdate swaps are a brilliant way to share the load. The idea is simple: you host a few kids one day, and another parent returns the favour the next. Not only does this give you a chance to catch up on work or relax, but kids are often happier when they have friends to play with.

Suppose you’re looking for an easy way to keep things fun, set up simple group activities like crafting sessions or baking. And don’t forget to keep a stash of TWO CUBS Crafty Curls on hand for mess-free, creative fun that kids love.

Setting Expectations Early

One of the smartest things you can do before the holidays begin is to sit down with your kids and set expectations. Let them know that while there will be fun activities, there will also be moments when they need to entertain themselves.

Encourage independent play by giving them tools that foster creativity, like Crafty Curls or TWO CUBS activity kits. Kids love having the freedom to explore their own ideas—and you’ll love having a few quiet moments to breathe.

Affordable Activities for Endless Fun

Outdoor Adventures

Fresh air and open spaces are the ultimate boredom busters. Try these low-cost, high-energy activities:

• Bushwalking and Nature Trails: Explore local trails or national parks. Let kids collect leaves or spot wildlife.
• Beach Days: Sandcastle building, shell collecting, and paddling in the water can keep kids entertained for hours.
• Bike Rides: Cycling is a great way to burn energy and discover new places as a family.

Crafting Magic with Crafty Curls

When outdoor play isn’t an option, indoor crafting can save the day. Crafty Curls are perfect for keeping kids busy without the mess. Kids can create fun shapes, characters, or even holiday-themed decorations—it’s all about letting their imagination run wild.

Community Resources

Take advantage of free or affordable activities in your area. Libraries often host storytimes or craft sessions, and local skateparks or pools are great for active play. Many community centres also offer free or low-cost holiday programs.

Flexible Work Strategies for Working Mums

Balancing work and school holidays isn’t easy, but small adjustments can make a big difference.

Split Shifts

If you and your partner both work from home, try dividing the day. One parent starts early while the other handles morning activities, and then swap.

Flexible Hours

Consider starting work before the kids wake up or catching up after bedtime. It’s not ideal, but it can give you the flexibility to spend time with your kids during the day.

Activity Zones

Set up a dedicated “kids’ zone” where they can play independently while you work. Stock it with TWO CUBS essentials like activity books and Crafty Curls to keep them entertained.

Screen-Free Entertainment Options

Screens can be a lifesaver, but balance is key. Here are some screen-free alternatives:

Podcasts and Audiobooks

Podcasts like Car Trip Trivia or But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids are fun and educational. Pair them with colouring books or Crafty Curls for a quiet, engaging activity.

DIY Challenges

Set up creative challenges like building a tower with blocks or designing a “mini town” with Crafty Curls. These activities are fun and encourage problem-solving skills.

Holiday Survival Tools

Having the right gear can make all the difference during school holidays.

TWO CUBS Travel Backpacks

Perfect for outings or overnights, these backpacks come with built-in activity kits, including a colouring book, crayons, and stickers. They’re durable, eco-friendly, and kid-approved.

TWO CUBS Wet Bags

Say goodbye to messy bags! Wet bags are a lifesaver for separating wet swimmers, dirty clothes, or accidental spills.

Crafty Curls

The ultimate boredom buster, Crafty Curls inspire creativity and keep kids entertained at home or on the go.

Embrace Imperfection

Here’s a little secret: you don’t have to fill every moment with planned activities. Boredom isn’t a bad thing—it’s a chance for kids to develop their imagination. Whether they’re building forts, drawing, or daydreaming, those unstructured moments are just as valuable as the outings and playdates.

A Real Mum’s Perspective

Mums agree—school holidays are a mixed bag. They’re full of laughter, meltdowns, and everything in between. But they’re also a chance to make memories, even in the chaos.

One mum shared her favourite moment: “Watching my kids laugh together during a playdate made all the juggling worthwhile.”

School holidays can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning and the right tools, they can also be a time of connection and joy. Remember, it’s okay to have lazy days, rely on simple activities, and embrace the chaos.

At TWO CUBS, we’re here to help make the holidays smoother with eco-friendly products that keep kids entertained and parents sane.

Let TWO CUBS Help You Survive the School Holidays

Shop our range of travel essentials and creative activities designed to make family life easier and more fun. Explore now at TWO CUBS.