Balancing work and family life is challenging at the best of times, which is why when midterms roll around, it can feel overwhelming and stressful. However, there are ways to ensure your family’s time off doesn’t have to affect your work productivity. It is not easy, but we have outlined some tips to make sure your week is both enjoyable and productive.  

Getting the right work-life balance that works for you 

Set Clear Boundaries 

The first step to successfully working from home is setting clear boundaries between work time and personal time. Let your family know when you are unavailable and when you can spend time with them. Appoint a workspace that signals to your family that you’re in ‘work mode’, whether it’s a home office, a corner of the kitchen or even just a desk with a sign that says, ‘back at 12pm’. 

Share the Load 

You don’t have to do everything alone. If possible, divide responsibilities with a partner, relative or even older children. Assign age-appropriate tasks to children to encourage independence while keeping them engaged. For example, younger kids can help set up lunch while older ones can take on small household tasks. Making certain activities a group effort can create a sense of teamwork and lighten the load. 

Take Breaks Together 

One of the benefits of working from home is that you can enjoy breaks with your family. Plan short breaks where you can step away from your screen and spend quality time together. Whether it is lunch or a short walk, having scheduled breaks can help your children understand when you will be available, minimising future distractions.  

Midterm Break: Keeping Kids Engaged While You Work 

Independent Activities 

Encouraging independent activities is key to keeping children occupied while you work. Arts and crafts, puzzles, reading time or even safe kitchen activities like baking or cookie decorating can keep them engaged. Create an activity list together so they have a choice of things to do during your work hours. 

Routine and Reward Systems 

Children work well with a clearly laid out routine. A simple reward system can encourage children to stay engaged with their activities. Completing a set of tasks, like reading for 30 minutes, finishing a puzzle or playing quietly could earn them extra playtime or a fun family outing at the end of the day. 

Tech with Purpose 

While screen time should be balanced, technology can be a great tool when used with purpose. Educational games, audiobooks and interactive learning apps can be both engaging and beneficial for children. Try incorporating digital books, virtual workshops or coding games to keep their minds active while you work.  

Local Events & Resources for Families in Fingal 

Events 

Midterm break can also be a perfect opportunity to explore the family-friendly activities in the Fingal area. Whether you are looking for a family day out, a personal reset or something for your children to do while you work, here are some ideas:  

Outdoor Adventures 

• Howth Cliff Walk – A stunning coastal walk that’s both refreshing and great for some family bonding. 

• Malahide Castle & Gardens – Explore the grounds, take a tour of the castle or follow the 1.8km Fairy Trial walk

• Newbridge House & Farm – A great spot for younger kids to see farm animals and enjoy the open space; Home - Newbridge House & Farm 

• Ardgillan Castle & Park – Offers beautiful walking trails, gardens, and a fantastic playground; Ardgillan Castle and Gardens, Balbriggan, County Dublin 

Educational & Creative Activities 

• Skerries Mills – A fun and historical experience learning about windmills and traditional milling; Guided Tours at Skerries Mills - Explore with Experts 

• Fingal Libraries – Check out your local library or mobile library for midterm events, storytelling sessions, and activity workshops; Fingal Library Network | Fingal County Council 

• Butterfly House at Malahide Castle – A unique indoor experience for kids to see butterflies up close; Butterfly House - Malahide Castle and Gardens 

Wellness & Relaxation for Parents 

• Portmarnock Saunas – Enjoy some relaxation time after a refreshing sea swim; Saunas in Dublin - Restore Sauna Portmarnock | Sauna Surfer.

• Sound Bath & Yoga in Fingal – Find a moment of calm with guided meditation sessions available during the break; Sound Bath meditation with Tom Tickets, Wed 26 Feb 2025 at 19:00 | Eventbrite 

This time off for your children doesn’t have to be a stressful juggle between work and family. By setting boundaries, incorporating engaging activities, and making the most of local events, you can create a balance. For those who find it difficult to work effectively from home during school breaks, The View offers a dedicated space to focus without distractions. Whether you need a quiet desk or a professional environment to support productivity, our co-working space allows you to make the most of your work hours. 

Take advantage of our Midterm Deal – 15% off all hot desks from Feb 17th-21st and maximise your work hours in a professional environment. 

Book your space today  or take a virtual tour of The View today and discover how our co-working space can help balance your personal and professional productivity.