March Break Boundaries

March Break next week, friends.

How y’all holdin’ up? You ready for this?

Whether you’re staying home, or heading out, holidays with kids can be…tricky.

It can be especially hard to figure out how to stay consistent with rules and boundaries. 

Here are some tips for staying consistent through March Break:

Get Clear About Expectations

When I was a kid, March Break meant Spring Cleaning. My mom had a list and we cleaned every morning at 10am. 

Did I enjoy that part of the day? No.

But it was very clear. And effective. And it definitely made us appreciate our freedom the rest of the day! 

Decide in advance what expectations you have for your kids during the break. Do they have chores? Are there rules about screen time? Playing outside? Having friends over?

This is especially important if the rules are different (like a later bedtime) or if there are new situations because you’re traveling (like they can use tablets on the plane).

Plan a family meeting and explain the expectations. Truly. Don’t assume your kids will just know the new rules. Give them a chance to hear them and even give feedback. Clarity helps everyone.

Make a Schedule

Use pictures, so the littlest members can understand, and post it somewhere visible.

Does that seem like organizational overkill?

Maybe. But kids thrive on routine - especially younger children and those who are neuro-divergent.

You know how they read the same book or watch the same show over and over? It’s predictable. They like the feeling of knowing what’s coming next.

So, when there’s a massive break from routine, it’s stressful. You might see increased anxiety or acting out. That’s how they deal with uncertainty.

Posting a schedule - and reviewing it regularly - helps. Put in when you’re going to the park, when screen time and snack time will be, when it’s time to play. When things are predictable, they can succeed more easily. 

Plan Breaks

Make sure your schedule includes breaks from each other. 

I like quiet time in the afternoon, where everyone has to be on their bed. Or a block of “individual play” where they get to play by themselves. I have a stash of toys and craft supplies specifically for that time.

It works because, when the schedule is visible and you’re following it, everyone can see what’s coming next. You’ll be surprised how fast they adapt when you’re consistent. 

And, because you know those blocks are there, you can relax and enjoy your kids in the other spaces. You’re much less likely to get overwhelmed and hide in the pantry (or just scream at everyone to leave you alone) if you know there’s a break coming.

Notice he's still carrying his own bag?

Give Age-Appropriate Responsibilities

We are all guilty of doing too much for our kids! Help your children develop agency and confidence by giving them responsibility. 

If you’re traveling, pack bags that they can carry themselves. Put someone in charge of plugging in the electronics at the end of the day. Or packing the snack bag for the beach.

If you’re staying home, assign an area of the house they’re responsible for putting back in order every day. Make them each responsible for preparing a meal. 

And keep those responsibilities going! I made a drink station in my kitchen that’s the right height for a toddler. Now, my toddler is responsible for getting drinks for meals.

This has increased independence SO much!

Make Your Behaviour Plan Portable

Finally, make a plan for challenging behaviour that is realistic, consistent and portable. 

If your kid is a runner, bring the stroller, so you can strap them in when they aren’t listening. 

If you’re using time out to deal with hitting, decide how you’ll do it when you’re not at home. (Pro-tip: Any bench, chair, or even spot on the ground will do!) 

It’s such a hassle to discipline children in public, that it’s tempting to let kids get away with things you wouldn’t normally tolerate. Trust me, in the long run, it will be much smoother when they understand that the same rules apply on vacation.

I’m actually really looking forward to March Break with my boy! We have some days at home to play, and we’re traveling a bit to visit friends. 

So I’m definitely using all my own tips! 

And I’ll be back in two weeks with a timely new blog post about how to deal with bad habits you accidentally formed over the break. ;)

______________________

Boundaries and limits are one of the most challenging parts of parenting! 

Join me on March 20th for a new workshop: Mom is NOT a Doormat! Rules and Boundaries and How to Stop Giving In.

Learn more HERE.