Being Well at Magill

Author Aisha Khan of The Children’s Society UK, shares ideas with families on how to navigate the holidays with your children. 

For many children, the school holidays are a time to have fun and relax without the stresses of schoolwork. However, a lot of young people can feel stressed or lonely from a loss of routine and time with friends. 

Changes in routine and support

School holidays, be it the long summer break, or half-term holidays, come with significant changes in children’s routines. From organised, hourly schedules to having whole weeks free, it can feel disorienting for some. 

This is particularly the case for many neurodivergent children, who can prefer the predictability of routine to feel a sense of control and calm. The lack of certainty that comes with a disruption in routine can lead to anxiety and emotional outbursts.  

Many children might love the idea of weeks off without routine, feeling the freedom that comes with no schoolwork or scheduled lessons. If there are holidays away planned, or time to socialise and relax, the break will feel even more exciting. Other children, however, can struggle without support and structure. If there aren’t any plans on the horizon, they may not only feel anxious from the unpredictability, but lonely or like they’re missing out compared to their peers. 

Sense of loneliness

With the increase of social media usage, young people can be in touch more than ever. However, it also can contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for those that may not find making friends so easy.  

Seeing other people having fun on their holidays can make it easy for young people to compare themselves and feel left out. This is common, especially when going from busy school environments to unstructured days at home.  

Help during the holidays

One of the most helpful ways to help children who are struggling during the holidays is to give them a sense of control. If your child feels anxious without a structured routine, you can do this by working with them to create a flexible plan throughout the holidays; setting up a loose schedule with activities and mealtimes will help keep the children anchored, therefore feeling calmer. Keeping it loose and flexible helps with predictability but avoids the rigidity of school. 

Amidst these routines, make time for fresh air and spend time outdoors. Not only will it keep them active during holidays (and help you reset as a household if it becomes overwhelming), but fresh air and walking is beneficial for everyone’s mental health. 

Speaking of mental health, limiting screen time will help avoid eye strain and disruption of sleep. While young people might use their phones to socialise online, play games, and watch shows, balance is key. Encourage creative activities, time in-person with friends, and head to local events to help them socialise with other children during the break. Not only will a balance of activities help provide structure to the holidays, but it will also prevent children feeling lonely and support their mental health. 

Have a safe and relaxing break and see you all next term.

Erica Teumohenga

Assistant Principal

KidsHelpline: 1800 551 800

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