A working parent’s summertime survival guide

Written by Raquel Anderson, EdD, LMHC, NCC, Behavioral Health Specialist

Summer is supposed to be a laid back time full of relaxation and play. Kids are home with more time on their hands, you may have travel plans, and the typical schedule is completely out the window. Kids are more relaxed; however, parents tend to be more stressed. Kids have no requirements of their time, and the responsibilities of parents often do not change. This can leave parents with a lot of parental guilt. We want our kids to have a Pinterest-like summer, but we feel bad because we are often busy and distracted with our own time. Here are a few tips to balance quality time and manage the responsibilities of life.

Set aside time for undivided attention

If possible, set aside an hour or two each day to be completely electronic free. This includes your phone. This will help give your children your undivided attention and allow them to spend good, quality time with you. If you have to, leave a message on your phone explaining that you will not be available during this time in the event someone is trying to reach you.

Plan activities for when you’re busy

When you have to be busy at home, tell your children clearly that this is time that you must spend working, and you cannot be distracted. Give them options of activities they can do which will allow them to play or work independently and not need assistance from you.

Strive for quality time

Make sure to keep time with your children just for them and time at work distraction-free—and this will make the most effective use of your time. Strive for quality time versus quantity time, and you will make the most positive memories of the summer you can.