The current school holidays have many parents on edge, and it’s not just a feeling—this break really is longer than usual. Depending on the state or territory and whether children attend public or private schools, the summer break stretches anywhere from five to nine weeks. In New South Wales, for example, students won’t return to class until February 5, with some even returning later.
According to a teacher, the extended holiday period is due to a combination of changes in staff development days and an extra day added because of the leap year. The holidays feel longer due to a late finish to the previous school year and a delayed start to this one. While the holidays before Christmas tend to fly by, the weeks after seem to drag on. This “extended” break is both longer in days and perception, leaving many parents feeling overwhelmed.
For parents, particularly those who work full time, the long break is a logistical and financial challenge. Vacation care and camps are expensive, and not everyone has access to free help, such as grandparents. This leaves many parents scrambling to entertain their children, juggling work with the challenge of keeping kids fed, entertained, and out of constant conflict.
Some parents, like Yasmin, expressed their frustration: “The system is broken! I am broken! How on earth are we supposed to juggle this with four weeks of leave a year?” Others, like Nina, simply stated, “This has been the longest school holidays of my life.”
The pressure isn’t just on the parents; even the kids are feeling the strain, with some expressing boredom and frustration. One 16-year-old even asked when school would start again, signaling that the break might have gone on too long for everyone involved.
For many, the balance of work and kids’ entertainment is the hardest part. With limited affordable options for activities and camps, some parents have resorted to extra screen time, which leads to feelings of guilt, as Aaliyah shared: “I’m feeling really out of routine. My mood is flat.” Others like Tracey, a teacher, expressed that they would rather be at school dealing with students than managing the chaos at home.
As the holidays drag on, parents are finding creative (and expensive) ways to cope. Aisha, for instance, shared, “I have never spent so much on Uber Eats in my life!” As frustrating as it may be, there’s comfort in knowing that many others are experiencing the same challenge.
So, hang in there, parents—the break is almost over. Whether it’s one or two more weeks, relief is in sight.
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