For most youngsters, the upcoming six-week break from school is the highlight of every year. But for their parents the summer holidays can lead to more stress than ever before.
Complicated childcare arrangements, financial pressures and trying to keep bored children occupied during the long summer months can lead to parents dreading the holidays, Hadleigh-based charity Parentline Plus has said.
The charity has issued a list of tips to help stop the stress levels from creeping too high.
Rosemary Spillman, spokesman for the Castle Point branch of the national charity, said: "It's important to acknowledge that the summer holidays can be a stressful time for all families.
"Parents may need to talk over their options to realise that they aren't alone in these dilemmas and that there is help at hand."
Parents can call the 24-hour Parentline helpline on 0808 8002222.
Published Monday July 12, 2004
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