Over half of working parents rely on TV and YouTube to keep their kids entertained during school holidays

The summer means two things; long, sunny days and the battle of entertaining the children over the six-week school break – which for almost two-thirds of parents (62%) involves YouTube and TV, with sweets (18%) and the promise of new toys (13%) also being used in a bid to keep children amused.

This comes as PGL Adventures reveals¹ the struggle parents are facing with juggling careers and childcare during the school holidays with almost half (45%) experiencing burn-out trying to do it all while others (41%) suffer from stress a quarter (25%) will feel anxious.

And it’s not just their personal lives that suffer. A third (34%) of parents also say the juggle is having an impact on their ability to do their job with 53% saying they can’t fully concentrate on their job and two-fifths (40%) have had to miss important meetings due to holiday childcare issues.

Grandparents will often play a vital role as 43% say they rely on family members to look after their child, while more than one in 10 (12%) require the support of a close community network, sending their children to parents of their schoolfriends.

When asked what the most difficult situation is for parents when it comes to juggling work and parenthood during the summer break, comments revealed:

• “When both my wife and me have to work from home. You just have to rely on tv and iPad”
• “Not having the time and energy to be fully present for them “
• “Having to tell work I can’t go on a site visit last minute because I have no childcare and then feelings scared I’m going to lose my job”
• “Trying to do work calls with screaming kids who want to go out and do things, but can’t because I’m working”
• “A real decline in the quality of my work, and feeling tired whilst working with my child”

Alison Sudbury, Group Marketing Director from PGL Adventures, comments: “The school holidays, especially during the summer, can be hell for parents who are trying to juggle it all. 

“Trying to balance everything and keep everyone happy, including yourself, during this time can feel like a colossal task.

 “But for children, we believe that rather than wind down, they want to be active so holidays are a time for, getting outside, making memories and thriving on challenges. 

 “Our camps are a great option for those aged 8-16 years, allowing children to gain independence from home, make friends and enjoy a choice of over 40 fun activities at one of our many centres across the UK – all while parents focus on work knowing their kids are in safe hands. What’s more, parents will feel great knowing what an amazing time their children will be having and it’s not that expensive either making it a great holiday saviour.”

For more information on PGL Travel and its range of kids’ camps head to www.pgl.co.uk. Take the leap – will your kid love it?

For more information on PGL Travel and its range of kids’ camps head to www.pgl.co.uk. Take the leap – will your kid love it?