Let’s be real: working in hospitality is a marathon. Being a parent is a marathon. When you combine the two during the school holidays, it can feel like you’re running that marathon uphill, in a thunderstorm, while carrying a tray of drinks.
At Paramount Personnel, we know that our candidates are more than just professionals— some are parents, guardians, and the glue holding their families together. The “Summer Struggle” (or the half-term hustle) is a common challenge in our industry, but with a bit of tactical planning and a supportive mindset, it is possible to keep the plates spinning without dropping a single one.
1. The Power of the “Early Ask”
In hospitality, the rota is king. As soon as those school term dates are released, talk to your manager. * Request shifts early: Don’t wait until a week before the holidays to ask for a schedule adjustment.
-
Be specific: If you need to be off by 3:00 PM for a pickup, or if you can only work weekends when a partner is home, lay it out clearly.
-
The Trade-Off: Offer to cover the shifts nobody wants (like the late-night closes) in exchange for the daytime flexibility you need.
2. Embrace the “Village” Mentality
Hospitality is built on teamwork, and your personal life should be no different.
-
Parent Swap: Find a fellow “hospitality parent.” Maybe you watch their kids while they work the lunch rush, and they take yours while you handle the dinner service.
-
Holiday Clubs: Look into local sports camps or community programs. Many offer “early drop-off” or “late stay” options that align better with industry hours.
3. Quality Over Quantity
When you’re working a 10-hour shift during a busy holiday week, “Mum or Dad Guilt” can hit hard. Remember: your kids care more about your presence than the clock.
Pro-Tip: Even 20 minutes of “undivided attention” (no phones, no work talk) after a shift is more valuable to a child than four hours of you being home but distracted by emails or exhaustion.
4. Meal Prep is Your Secret Weapon
The last thing you want to do after cooking or serving food all day is come home and… cook more food.
-
Batch Cook: Use your days off to prep “grab and go” lunches for the kids and easy dinners for the week.
-
The Slow Cooker: It’s the closest thing to a sous-chef you’ll have at home. Set it in the morning, and dinner is ready when you walk through the door.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
The hospitality industry is physically and mentally demanding. During the school holidays, the pressure doubles.
-
Lower the bar at home: If the laundry doesn’t get folded or the house isn’t spotless, it’s okay.
-
Protect your sleep: It’s tempting to stay up late to get “me time,” but rest is what will get you through the next double shift.
How Paramount Personnel Can Help
If your current role doesn’t offer the flexibility you need to be the parent you want to be, it might be time for a change. We specialize in matching talented professionals with employers who understand the importance of work-life balance.
From temporary roles that fit around term times to permanent positions with family-friendly hours, we’re here to help you find your perfect fit.
