Maintaining routines on vacation: how to balance relaxation and discipline in children

During the holiday season, it is common for children to enjoy a well-deserved rest and relaxation after an intense school year. However, it is important to maintain certain routines and habits that provide structure and help them transition back to school. As parents and caregivers, we can achieve this balance without it being a negative or conflicting experience for them.

The importance of routines

Routines are essential in children's lives, as they provide security, stability and predictability. During the holidays, it's tempting to let go of daily routines like bedtime, eating, or extracurricular activities. However, maintaining these routines will allow them to maintain a constant pace and will facilitate the transition back to school.

It is advisable to establish schedules similar to those that follow during the school year. For example, it is important for children to maintain a regular wake-up and bedtime, as this will help them get adequate rest and maintain a healthy sleep rhythm.

Balancing relaxation time and discipline

During the holidays, it is necessary to find a balance between relaxation time and discipline. It is important to allow children to enjoy their free time and relax, but it is also essential to set limits and maintain certain rules to prevent them from getting out of control.

One way to achieve this balance is to establish flexible schedules. For example, children may be allowed to have free time in the morning to rest and relax, but then set a schedule for activities or chores in the afternoon. This will give them the opportunity to enjoy their free time, but will also remind them that they still need to fulfill certain responsibilities.

In addition, it is important to promote autonomy and responsibility in children. We can involve them in planning their own activities and tasks, giving them options within established limits. This way, they will feel more motivated and committed to fulfilling their responsibilities.

Activities that promote balance

There are various activities that can help promote a balance between relaxation time and discipline during the holidays. Some of them include:

• Do outdoor activities: encouraging physical exercise and contact with nature is essential for children's well-being. Bike rides, walks, or outdoor games are great options.

• Encourage reading: dedicating daily time to reading is an activity that combines relaxation time with learning. We can encourage children to choose books that interest them and create an environment conducive to reading.

• Promote creativity: Activities such as painting, music or cooking are excellent for encouraging creativity and skill development. These activities can be carried out in a fun and relaxed way, but certain rules and limits can also be established to maintain order and discipline.

• Establish time for homework: Although vacations are a time of rest, it is important for children to dedicate time daily to review and maintain their academic skills. Establishing a specific time for these activities will help them maintain the study habit and facilitate the transition back to school.

Communication and flexibility

Finally, it is essential to maintain open and fluid communication with children during the holidays. Listening to their needs, concerns and desires will make them feel valued and taken into account. Furthermore, it is important to be flexible and adapt to circumstances, without imposing rigid discipline that could generate unnecessary conflicts.

Maintaining routines and habits during the holidays is essential to help children achieve the right balance between relaxation time and discipline. As parents and caregivers, we can achieve this balance by setting schedules similar to those of the school year, allowing relaxation time but also establishing limits and rules, promoting activities that combine rest with learning, and maintaining open and flexible communication with children. In this way, the vacation will be a positive and enriching experience for them.