Navigating March Break: Balancing Excitement, Routine, and Mental Well-being—for Kids and Parents
March Break is an exciting time for kids—no school, more free time, and the opportunity for fun activities. But for parents? It can bring a mix of emotions. Whether you're scrambling to arrange childcare, adjusting your work schedule, or simply trying to keep your child engaged and happy, this shift in routine can feel overwhelming.
If you're feeling stressed or exhausted, know that you're not alone. Parenting during school breaks is a big adjustment, and it's okay to feel a mix of excitement and frustration. Understanding how this change impacts both you and your child can help you navigate the week with more ease and less stress.
The Impact of Routine Changes on Kids and Parents
For kids, breaks from school can bring a sense of freedom—but also some challenges. Many children thrive on consistency, and a sudden lack of structure can lead to restlessness, boredom, mood swings, or difficulty transitioning back to school.
For parents, balancing work, household responsibilities, and the constant need to supervise and entertain kids can feel like a juggling act. The mental load increases, and without the built-in structure of the school day, it’s easy to feel like you’re always “on.”
Supporting Your Child While Supporting Yourself
While kids need structure and engagement, parents need support and self-care too. Here’s how you can create a balanced approach:
1. Maintain a Flexible but Predictable Routine
For kids: Keep wake-up times, meals, and bedtimes consistent. This helps regulate mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
For parents: Build in “checkpoints” throughout the day where you know you’ll have a moment to breathe—whether it’s a coffee break, a short walk, or a few minutes of quiet time while your child is engaged in an activity.
2. Plan Activities That Work for Everyone
Structured activities help kids stay engaged while giving parents some predictability. Consider:
March Break camps & day programs: Explore community resources for camps, such as YMCA of Three Rivers.
DIY activity stations at home: Set up art supplies, puzzles, or a simple baking project to keep kids busy.
Outdoor play: Parks, trails, and local nature spots can help burn off energy and improve mood for both kids and parents.
Screen time with intention: It’s okay to use screen time as a tool—but balance it with interactive and educational content.
3. Build in Breaks for Yourself
If possible, share responsibilities with a partner, family member, or friend. Taking turns supervising kids allows for short but necessary recharge moments.
If you’re home with kids all day, schedule quiet time—even 15 minutes where everyone reads, colors, or listens to calm music can help regulate energy levels.
Let go of perfection—it’s okay if your house is messier or routines aren’t followed exactly. The goal is to make the week manageable, not flawless.
4. Regulate Yourself to Regulate Your Child
Parenting is emotionally demanding, and kids pick up on our stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, taking a few deep breaths before responding to a situation can help you stay calm—which in turn helps your child stay calm.
If you’re curious about co-regulation—the process of using your own emotional regulation to help regulate your child—check out our previous blog post on co-regulation for more insights.
You Don’t Have to Do It All
March Break is a temporary shift, and it’s okay to prioritize connection over perfection. Whether it’s through structured programs, at-home activities, or simply being present, finding small ways to support both yourself and your child can make all the difference.
Remember: Taking care of yourself is taking care of your child. 💛