As a Brand Director and co-owner of a food gifting SME, I am no stranger to the challenges of balancing a demanding job with family life. But nothing quite tests this balancing act like the summer school holidays. With my husband as the CEO of our company, two wonderful kids—a daughter aged 8 and a son with ADHD aged 10—this summer has been a journey of juggling work commitments, childcare, and everything in between. We are fortunate to be in a position where we have some flexibility but it's not always easy.
The Joys and Challenges of the Summer Break
When the summer holidays roll around, our household shifts gears. My daughter is eager for new adventures, and my son’s boundless energy and creativity fill our home with life. But as any working parent knows, the freedom of summer can also present a set of unique challenges, especially when one of your children can’t attend holiday clubs.
Making the Summer Memorable:
Our goal this summer has been to create lasting memories for our children, ensuring they enjoy their break while still meeting the needs of our business. It’s a delicate balance—one that requires creativity, flexibility, and a lot of patience. We've had to think outside the box, finding ways to tag team and keep our children engaged without sacrificing the demands of our roles.
Involving the Kids in Work:
This summer, my daughter has taken an interest in the family business. She’s been a big help in sending out brochures, and she’s even been involved in shooting TikToks and product videos. A big thank you to Izzy and Lydia for your patience. Not only does this keep my daughter busy, it also gives her a sense of involvement and pride in what we do. It’s been a joy to see her enthusiasm, and she’s learning valuable skills along the way. Look out for her on our social media channels.
Managing Interruptions with a Smile:
Working from home has its own set of challenges, especially with a son who loves to share his latest Lego model or cardboard invention. It’s not uncommon for a Teams call to be interrupted by a proud presentation of his latest creation. Leah our buying Director has simmilar stories with her daughter. These moments, while sometimes disruptive, are a reminder of what really matters. They bring a smile to my face and offer a brief pause in an otherwise hectic day.
The Power of Support
A Team That Feels Like Family:
We are incredibly fortunate to have a supportive team at work. They understand the demands of balancing work and family life, and their flexibility and understanding have been invaluable. We strive to be fair to our colleagues, recognising that many of them are facing similar challenges. Knowing that we can rely on them allows us to step away when needed, without the worry of things falling apart. They are incredibly hard working and dedicated and we couldn't do this without them.
Grandparents to the Rescue:
My parents have also been a pillar of support. Their help has been crucial in ensuring that we can maintain some semblance of normalcy. The children cherish their time with their grandparents, and it gives my husband and me the chance to focus on work when necessary.
Playdate Perks:
Another gamechanger has been the play dates and days out where we have either welcomed school friends and the children of team members here at Treat Kitchen or very kindly our children have been invited to spend time with other families. It's win win as the children are happy and so are the parents!
What Have We Learned?
1. Flexibility is Key:
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is the importance of being flexible. Plans change, interruptions happen, and sometimes the best-laid plans go awry. Being adaptable and going with the flow is essential.
2. Involvement Brings Engagement:
Involving our children in the business has been a great way to keep them engaged. It’s been an opportunity to teach them about what we do and instill a sense of responsibility and pride. Plus, it’s a fun way to spend time together!
3. Support Systems Are Crucial:
We couldn’t do it without the support of our team and family. Knowing that we have a network to rely on makes all the difference. It reminds us that we are not alone in this juggling act.
4. Embrace the Chaos:
There will be interruptions, and there will be chaos. Embracing these moments rather than resisting them makes life a lot easier. These are the moments that make memories, and they are a reminder of what’s truly important.
Moving Forward
As we look towards the new school year, we’re grateful for the experiences and lessons this summer has brought. Balancing work and childcare is never straightforward. It's very easy to feel guilty when you're at home and then guilty when you are busying working but really all you can do is try your best. With the right mindset, a supportive team, and a sense of humor, it’s possible to make it work. We’ll continue to adapt, learn, and cherish these precious moments with our children.
After all, the summer holidays are not just a time for kids to learn and grow—they’re an opportunity for us as parents to do the same.
