Surviving Half-Term as a Freelancer / Small Business Owner

Half term can be a wonderful chance to spend extra time with the kids, but for small business owners and freelancers it can also feel like a juggling act. Unlike employees, we don’t get paid holiday, so taking time off isn’t always an option. Balancing client work, deadlines, and childcare can feel overwhelming, particularly when the school holidays are in full swing.

Over the years, I’ve found ways to make it work, and it’s becoming easier as my children get older. They now understand when I need to focus and they’ve got better at entertaining themselves. This independence allows me to get tasks done while still being present for them, and it gives them the chance to explore, play and recharge after a busy school term.

It’s important to remember that half term doesn’t have to be jam-packed with trips and activities. Children benefit from downtime, simple unstructured play, and rest - it’s part of helping them reset after months of school. Encouraging quiet moments or creative free play allows them to relax and it gives you the space to focus when needed. Clear routines can help too. Letting them know when you’ll be working and what they can do during those times -whether reading, crafts, or a bit of screen time, helps everyone know what to expect and reduces stress.

Your children seeing you work also has huge benefits. It helps them understand the value of work, the effort it takes to run a business, and why you sometimes need uninterrupted focus. It’s a chance to model responsibility, resilience, and balance - teaching them by example how work and family life can coexist. Taking short breaks to play, have a snack, or go for a quick walk together also keeps the connection strong and makes the day feel less rushed.

Balancing business and family life isn’t easy, and half term brings its own challenges, particularly for freelancers who can’t simply take a week off. But with a little planning, flexibility and realistic expectations, it’s possible to keep your work on track while also giving your children the rest, attention and structure they need.

Celebrate the small wins, embrace the quieter moments and remember that the flexibility of freelancing allows you to be there for your children while still building the business you love.