Coming back from vacation can require a transition period. Lots of times on vacation there are different rules and schedules. Once you’re back at home, it’s time to get everyone back on track. And it’s not just vacations. It could be the end of summer vacation, spring or winter break, a co-parenting situation, or summer camp. There are lots of different situations. Remember that it’s going to take a little time to adjust. Here are some things you can try to make the transition a bit easier for everyone:
Have a Routine
Even if you’re not going on vacation once a month, it’s helpful to have the same routine in place for when you come home. Maybe that means everyone gets home and just takes thirty minutes to themselves in their rooms to do nothing. You can also have family time if that’s a better fit. Lots of snuggles and watching a movie or playing a game – just something that you’re all doing together. When your transition times happen in the evenings, resetting over dinner can also be super helpful.
Gentle Reminders
I know my brain has a hard time readjusting after vacation. What’s my morning routine? What did I need to do this week? Reminding yourself and the kids what needs to happen can be super helpful. It keeps everyone on the same page. Take time to write out lists before you leave. Sit down and think about what you’ll need to do when you get home and write it out now, before you’re exhausted. For the kids, consider having a chore chart or chore list for them too. When you’re coming back from vacation or another home where there aren’t the same rules, setting the kids up to be successful is important.
Catching Up
No matter how long you’ve been gone, chances are there’s some things that need to be caught up on. It could be laundry, grocery shopping, or cleaning the house. Have a plan to slowly chip away at things instead of feeling like everything has to be done right now. Take it slow and work through things. And unless you’re single and living alone, you’ve got other people in your house who can help you. It’s ok to delegate some things. Not sure what to delegate? Here are some ideas for you.
Rest and Relax
Yes it’s back to reality but you’re already tired and worn down from your travels. Jumping back in full speed isn’t going to be helpful. You don’t want to wind up sick because you overdid it when you got back. For vacations, I try to plan on coming home so there’s a day or so to recover if we’re taking a longer trip. Just being able to be lazy and go at your own pace is important. When you’re talking about kids coming home from camp or another parents house, having time to readjust is important too.
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