The summer holidays have begun, bringing the annual challenge many parents face in balancing work and looking after school-aged children. New research suggests arranging six weeks of holiday childcare can cost working parents up to £1,145 per child, while almost three-quarters of parents say the summer childcare juggle damages their career.
How are families coping?
Parents are resorting to a mix of strategies: paying for holiday clubs or childminders, relying on family and friends, or working from home while caring for children. Some are taking annual leave, reducing their hours, or working early mornings and late evenings to fit everything in.
Has the summer holiday childcare challenge affected your work, career or finances? Or have you found a solution that’s working well for your family?
Share your experience
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