The Easter holidays have arrived. No school runs for two weeks—hoorah!
But does anyone else feel a little derailed by the change in pace? Suddenly, the diary begins to fill with trips here, there, and everywhere. Playdates roll in, and the “keep them entertained” activity list starts piling up along with the chocolate eggs!
This year, I’m taking a different approach. A slower one.
It’s rare that we get to enjoy slower mornings without needing to be up, ready, and out the door by 8am. I’m choosing to see this time as a break—a chance to rest and move at a gentler pace. Yes, I still have to work, exercise, plan meals, and keep the house in order, but there’s no rush.
And actually, our children deserve this break too. A break from the school routine, from being hurried out the door, from structured learning. This is their time to take a breath and just be. To be at home with you. To watch, observe, and learn in a different way.
I know I’m lucky to have work that fits flexibly around my family, and I’m aware that not everyone has that luxury. But here are a few small, simple things you can do during the school break to make it feel a little more special—most of them at no cost.
A morning in bed
Not the whole morning, but perhaps 30 minutes before you all get up. Let your children climb in, cuddle, and chat. No rushing—just being present.
A special breakfast
Something you wouldn’t usually have on a school day. Make it together—chop some fruit, scramble some eggs—and sit down to eat as a family. If time is tight, prep something the night before or wake slightly earlier. These are the moments they’ll remember.
A walk a day
Head out for a walk around your local area and see what you can discover together. Whether it’s short or long, it all makes a difference. Fresh air really is good for the soul.
Plant some seeds
It’s the perfect time of year to grow something together. Sunflowers are a great choice—plant one each and see whose grows the tallest!
Let them choose
Give them a few dinner options for the week and let them write the menu. Involve them in the process and let them help prepare the meals they’ve chosen. It builds independence and gives them a sense of purpose.
Three facts a day
Each evening, ask your children to share three facts about their day. We’ve done this for a while now—it’s often entertaining and gives you a glimpse into their world from their perspective.
These are simple things, but they can make the holidays feel special—and you might even carry them into everyday life.
It doesn’t have to be a schedule full of back-to-back activities that cost money and leave everyone feeling burnt out. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is slow down, step back, and breathe.
I have a busy week ahead with work, family birthdays, and visitors—but I’m starting as I mean to go on: calm, present, and unrushed.
And if everything doesn’t go to plan, that’s okay too. Some days will feel calm and connected, others might feel a little chaotic—and that’s all part of it. I’m reminding myself not to chase perfection, but to notice the small, quiet moments in between. The cuddles, the conversations, the slower pace. Because really, that’s what this time is about. Slowing down, soaking it in, and just being together.
Mamas life adventures 