How to Support Working Parents Over the Summer Holidays (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Team)
Posted on August 1, 2025
The school summer holidays are here, and while kids are thrilled, many working parents and caregivers are quietly (or not so quietly) panicking. Balancing childcare and work during these long weeks can be a real juggle.
For employers, this is a golden opportunity to step up and show support. Getting it right can ease the pressure on your team and help you keep hold of your best people.
It’s not just about throwing perks at the problem. Today’s employees want flexibility, balance, and support for their wellbeing, especially their mental health. And when that support shows up at the right time (like now), it matters.
So, what can you do?
Be Flexible (and Mean It)
Summer is chaotic, sports days, day trips, last minute childcare changes. So if there’s ever a time to offer flexible working, it’s now.
Think:
- Remote working
- Flexi-hours
- Compressed workweeks
- Hybrid options
Even if it’s just temporary, giving people the freedom to adapt their schedules can be a game-changer.
If you run on a rota system, try to get those out early. It gives people time to sort childcare without the last-minute scramble.
Encourage Real Work-Life Balance
Let’s be honest, even your most dedicated team members want to switch off sometimes. And that’s a good thing. People who rest well work better.
Here’s how you can help:
- Don’t send emails at night or over weekends (unless it’s urgent).
- Encourage actual lunch breaks and proper finish times.
- Remind people to take their annual leave — and fully unplug when they do.
Your team will follow your lead. If they see you respecting boundaries, they’ll feel safer doing the same.
Make Your Well-being Support Obvious
If you’ve got support in place (like an EAP, mental health resources, or financial wellbeing tools), don’t assume people know. Shout about it!
Summer can be expensive and stressful, so remind your team where they can get confidential help with health, money, or family challenges.
But What If You Suspect Someone’s Taking Advantage?
It happens. Someone calls in sick… then posts beach pics on Instagram. It’s frustrating, but try not to leap to conclusions.
Social media isn’t always the full story, and it’s not always reliable proof. If something doesn’t add up, follow a fair process:
- Start with a clear absence policy.
- If concerns come up, speak to the employee privately.
- Ask for clarification, keep a record, and take advice if needed.
- Don’t rely solely on social posts, but if there’s solid evidence of misconduct, you may need to take formal action.
The key is staying fair, consistent, and calm, not reactive.
Bottom Line
Bottom Line
Supporting working parents over the summer isn’t just “nice”, it’s smart. A bit of empathy and flexibility now can go a long way toward building a loyal, engaged team who feel seen and supported.
And who knows, they might even come back from their family holiday more energised than ever!
Do you want help to review your employee benefits or reviewing your policies, to try to do all you can as an employer to support your employees, whether they have children or not, then get in touch for a free 30 minute no obligation call.
Contact us today to book a free 30 minute consultation or get support with policy updates. If you need further help please don’t hesitate to contact us:
+44 (0) 2382 518 004
info@smehrconsultancy.com
www.smehrconsultancy.com
