Britain and Bank Holidays - a great tradition, and an opportunity for families to spend time together.
Parents, beware - because this is also the season of chores, DIY and Spring Cleaning. With the remaining long weekend upon us, what is the best way for families to free up their time so that they can spend quality time together?
Deep cleaning the house, putting up shelves and getting the children's school uniforms ready might be on our to do list, but this final holiday weekend is not the time to do it.
Of course, we all need to get these things done. It's how we do it that gives us the chance to be better parents. Try these 5 tips for a more relaxed and energizing Easter weekend.
1. Your little ones love to do crafty things? Ask your children's nanny to
decorate and paint the eggs, making a table decoration or fun ornament for outside. You can even ask her to create a treasure hunt map that you and the children can use for your family egg hunt.
2. Take the time to talk to your children about the Easter story, or your spiritual beliefs. Children like to understand and celebrate religious ceremonies, and take advantage of the many festivals at this time of year to encourage your children's spiritual development.
3. Sneak a little time away from everyone. Give your partner an hour away from the family and ask them to do the same for you. With the longer days, this could even be a stroll once the children are in bed. When you are away, give yourself the time to enjoy your surroundings and the changes that Spring has brought.
4. Make, and enjoy a meal together. If your children are old enough, get them involved in choosing ingredients, shopping for them and cooking the meal. Even if they play a small part, it's a helpful and positive step for their development for them to join in with mealtimes.
5. Finally, if you really need to get some of those chores done be realistic. Think about what you can really achieve with everyone at home (not much, am I right?). Break down large chores into chunks of one hour tasks and don't be too hard on yourself if you don't get everything done. Long weekends are for you all as a family to chill out, come together and create some lovely memories.