When the school bell stops ringing, it’s parents who are on the clock. While summer break means more time with your kids, it can also spell chaos. Here’s how to keep everyone happy.

Summer break with the kids has its share of pros and cons. On the one hand, it’s a chance for family time, slower mornings, and outdoor adventures. On the other, it’s a stretch of long, unstructured days that can quickly devolve if you don’t have a plan in place. The best thing you can do for yourself and your kids is to strike a balance between structure and spontaneity.

Start by setting the tone with a flexible routine. Kids thrive on some sense of predictability, even when school’s out. Establishing consistent wake-up times, meal schedules, and a general daily rhythm can go a long way in making the days feel less like a free-for-all. A visual calendar or daily checklist that allows everyone to see what’s coming up, from swimming lessons to road trips, can help make that structure feel more tangible.

Of course, you’re probably also juggling work, which adds a whole other layer of complication to summer break. Working from home can be even more challenging because you may feel that you need to be present all the time. This is where a bit of creative scheduling can help. Tag team with your partner, set up playdate swaps with other parents, or look into day camps that free up a few hours at a time. And don’t feel bad about scheduling chunks of uninterrupted work time into the family calendar! Kids can do just fine with set windows for independent play.

Inevitably, the kids are going to complain of boredom, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, unstructured time gives kids the chance to get creative and discover new interests. Keep a few simple boredom-busters on hand, like colouring books or puzzles, that they can pull out when inspiration is low. Kids don’t always need elaborate play to stay entertained.

That said, a little planning can help break up the monotony. Choose a handful of special activities to do with your kids throughout the summer, like a visit to a museum, a backyard campout, or a fun day at a theme park. You don’t need to jam-pack your calendar, but having those “big” days to look forward to can give the long weeks a nice rhythm. There’s certainly no need to sign up for every camp, class, and outing you can find.

Finally, get the kids involved around the house. Let them help plan meals, pick activities, or take on age-appropriate chores. Older siblings can pitch in with younger ones, and even toddlers can help water plants or tidy toys. Not only will it lighten your load, but it will keep the kids busy for at least a little while, too!

And don’t forget that taking care of yourself is just as important as managing the kids’ time. Carve out windows where you can recharge, whether it’s a walk in the morning or putting your feet up with a TV show in the evening.

In the end, surviving summer break isn’t about doing everything right but about finding what works for your family. Aim to end the season with some happy memories, and you’ll easily be able to look back and call it a win.