Our tips and ideas to have a stress-free break over Easter.

While the little ones look forward to a visit from the Easter bunny this weekend, the prospect of keeping children busy for two weeks over the Easter holidays may be less exciting for some parents. Holidays can be stressful, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed if you’re juggling family commitments with work, trying to be healthy, and making time for yourself to relax and unwind. That said, with a holistically healthy mindset and some creativity, you can make the most of the Easter break.

Read along for our tips and ideas to have a stress-free break over Easter:

1. Spend time in the kitchen

Easter can be a time of cooking healthy family meals or enjoying a chocolate treat.

Orna O’Brien, Dietitian with the Irish Heart Foundation said “healthy eating is about balance. Food should be about enjoyment and nourishment and it’s what you eat on most days that counts, not what you do over Easter weekend!” It’s important not to skip meals in favour of less healthy snacks and treats. Just one medium sized chocolate Easter egg contains roughly 23 teaspoons of sugar, which is almost four times a child’s recommended daily intake.

Some delicious and wholesome meals like ‘lamb chops with garlic and lemon’ or a ‘shepherdless pie’ can suit the whole family.

2. Enjoy the outdoors

Use the long weekend to enjoy the great outdoors. Going for a walk in the spring air is a great way to get active and enjoy the daffodils and tulips that are in full bloom. Children are sure to enjoy an egg and spoon race in the garden or local park, or a hunt for the Easter bunny’s carrot.

3. Get crafty

Keep children busy with our free Easter activity sheets from the Busy @ Home Learning Hub. From wordsearches, to colouring and crafts, recipes and games, the Bizzy Breaks Easter activities are sure to keep the little ones entertained for hours over the holidays. Download and print them at home.

4. Take a Moment

If you are feeling overwhelmed, try some of our practical stressbusters. Taking a moment or two from your hectic schedule to focus on abdominal breathing, or planning a little treat for yourself after a tough day can make a big difference to your stress and overall mood.