SUMMER STRESSORS ARE COMING- GET READY!
The kids will be out of school. The days are longer. Everyone is bored. Can you feel the stress building already?
Is it summer break or a summer nightmare?
Finding Childcare When School Is Out
Each summer, working parents are faced with the task of finding childcare to replace those in-school hours. Not only can this cause financial stress for some families, but summer camps and daycares often fill up months in advance.
For parents with children who can stay home without adult supervision, the stress adds another layer of duty during the busy workday. When school was in session, it provided a sense of security and routine which allowed you to be more focused and productive at work.
Now that they are at home, it’s stressful to keep checking in on them. You also have to field their questions about how to make lunch or where you put their roller skates each hour. No wonder it’s hard to find focus and productivity during summer break.
Tip: Summer is the perfect time to work on your work/life balance. If possible, talk to your boss about adjusting your hours or working a more flexible schedule during summer break. If you aren’t having any luck because every daycare and summer camp in town is already filled, reach out to your support networks to see if they have recommendations or ideas (hello, nanny share!).
Losing ‘Me Time’
Summer is here, and you can’t even use the bathroom alone! The kids are around all of the time, and it makes keeping your sense of calm really difficult. When school was in session, the kids had sports, extra-curricular activities, assignments, and early bedtime, but now that’s gone. So how do you find some time for self-care during this busy season?
Tip: Be flexible! Remember that self-care isn’t about a long trip to a fancy spa. Look forward to incorporating ‘me time’ whether it’s using the daycare at the gym or waking up 30 minutes earlier to enjoy coffee by yourself. Once again, don’t forget to lean into your support network to see if you can arrange a few get-togethers that can buy you a few hours of adult time. Playdates can be great but don’t forget to return the favor.
Staying Healthy
Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and s’mores around the campfire are a few staples of summer cuisine. But these aren’t always healthy options. Add to that the fact that it’s easy for kids to snag a ‘few extra hours’ hooked up to devices and video games while mom and dad are at work.
There’s no question that summer disrupts the routine of just about every family with school-aged children,” said bonmente’s Teri Arana, LCSW. “It’s normal to feel an increased level of stress and anxiety during this time of year, but try to plan ahead and create healthy routines to keep you on track.”
We’re Here For Support-This Summer & Beyond
With summer stressors knocking on your door, now is the perfect time to book an appointment with our team. The best part is you don’t even have to leave home, making therapy more convenient than ever! Let’s put together a plan that will help you beat stress and manage anxiety to enjoy all the summer has to offer.
