School holidays are a golden opportunity to connect with your children, even when life’s demands keep us busy. As parents, it’s easy to feel the pull of work and other responsibilities, but making the effort to embrace small moments with our kids can be incredibly impactful. This is a time when school is no longer a distraction, allowing us to have conversations that might otherwise get lost in the shuffle of daily life. Here are some practical ways to make every moment count, even when you’re balancing work with school holiday parenting.
1. Use Transitional Moments
For me, teaching my child to drive has become one of these pivotal moments. While driving, they are focused on the road, so our conversations might not be too in-depth during that time. But afterward, as we sit in the driveway and talk about how they went and how they felt, those moments always turn into something deeper. It’s not about the quantity of conversation but the quality. It’s a time to be present, offer support, and build a stronger relationship.
Even if you’re not teaching your child to drive, other transitional moments – such as after an outing, during a break from an activity, or at the end of the day – can offer the perfect space for connection.
2. Maximise Time at the Dinner Table
One of the best ways to engage in meaningful conversation is around the dinner table. The Table Talk Project offers a simple and effective way to bring everyone together and make the most of those daily gatherings. During the school term, kids are often preoccupied with homework, social commitments, or extracurricular activities, but holidays open up more opportunities to have conversations. Whether your kids are talking about something lighthearted or diving into more serious topics, the table provides a natural setting for meaningful dialogue.
Take advantage of these moments to discuss things that you might not otherwise get to talk about. The Table Talk Project has a wealth of topics and conversation starters on our website to help you get started. These can range from fun icebreakers to deeper questions that encourage kids to open up. In the relaxed atmosphere of the holidays, your children may be more willing to share their thoughts and feelings on subjects that matter to them.
3. Make Your Children Feel Valued
What’s most important is that your children know they are valued, special, and a priority in your life. Taking time to talk to them—even if it’s just for a few minutes—reinforces that they matter. It’s not just about having conversations; it’s about showing up in a way that makes them feel heard and important.
If you haven’t already planned something like a family meeting or a movie night, now might be the perfect time. These activities not only provide a break from everyday routines but also offer a great setting for meaningful conversations. Use the downtime from school to engage with your children on topics that might otherwise be brushed aside in the hustle of daily life.
4. Start Simple but Stay Consistent
Holidays don’t have to mean extravagant trips or packed schedules. Small, consistent moments of connection—like checking in during a meal or a quiet car ride—can make a world of difference. The key is to be intentional about these interactions. Ask questions that go beyond “How was your day?” and create space for real discussions.
One idea is to book in an activity like a family game night or a shared project, like cooking or a small household task, where everyone contributes. These shared experiences open the door for spontaneous conversations and memories that deepen relationships.
The Power of Conversation in Building Connections
At the core of it all, conversation is key to better relationships and connections. The more we talk with our kids, the more we understand them, and the better we can support their growth. Holidays are an ideal time to focus on this, as you can engage with your children in ways that everyday life doesn’t always allow.
Take the opportunity now to deepen those relationships, make the most of the extra time, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s through the Table Talk Project’s structured conversations or the organic talks that arise from simply being present, embracing each opportunity to connect with your children will build stronger family bonds.
So as the holidays unfold, remember to create space for conversations, make each moment count, and show your children they are your priority. These small efforts now will lead to lasting impact in your relationship with them.
