The summer holidays are something very special. Long days, spontaneous trips and lots of fun. But for both babies and older children, too many changes can quickly cause restlessness, poor sleep and overstimulation.
Therefore, it is not about sticking to all the rules, but about maintaining the most important routines so that your child still feels safe.
That is why routines are important - also during the holidays
Although holidays are often about breaking everyday life, this does not necessarily apply to children. Babies in particular need repetition and recognition.
According to experts and experiences from parents, the key to a good holiday with baby is precisely that adapt to the child's needs and not the other way around.
👉 In other words: Keep the structure, but make it flexible.
👶 Baby (0-1 year): Security, sleep, and familiarity
-
Stick to the sleep rhythm
Shop FRIGG Night pacifiersSleep is one of the first things that is affected during the holiday.
Therefore:- Keep roughly the same bedtime
- Create darkness and calm; also in new surroundings
- Use the same things as home
Small recognizable elements make a big difference to baby's security.
Make your nights easier with FRIGG night pacifiers that glow in the dark. -
Create fixed rituals
It doesn't have to be advanced:
- Same song before bedtime
- Same order: bath → book → putting
- Relaxed atmosphere every evening
Routines act as signals to the child about what needs to happen. -
Make mealtime simple and recognizable
Even when you are on a trip:
- Have fixed times (approximately)
- Bring your own dishes and cups
- Avoid too many new inputs at once
-
Pack a “comfort zone”
Shop FRIGG pacifiersA good rule of thumb:
- Pacifiers
- Cuddly cloth
- Pacifier
- Blanket
- Famous toys
It creates a small "base" wherever you are.
🧒 Older children (1+ years): Structure with freedom
Older children can better handle variation, but still need structure.
-
Keep the fixed points of the day
You don't need a strict plan; just repetitions:
- Morning routine (breakfast + calm start)
- Evening routine (bath, book, goodnight)
It gives the child a sense of control. -
Prepare the child for the day
Tell what will happen:
- “Today we are going to the beach”
- “After lunch we go home and relax”
It creates predictability and fewer conflicts. -
Have activities ready without overstimulation
Summer can quickly become "too much":
- Take small games with you on the go
- Choose quiet toys
-
Make breaks a regular part of the day
Plan small breaks:
- Quiet time in the middle of the day
- Snack break
- Time without stimuli
It helps the child to regulate himself.
How to maintain stress-free routines
Here's the easy approach:
1. Think “80% routine”
It doesn't have to be perfect.
2. Prioritize sleep and meals
It is the foundation for the rest of the day.
3. Make it easy on yourself
Bring products that work from home.
4. Accept variation
Holidays are also for enjoying – not controlling.
Routines make the holiday better – not more boring
Many believe that routines limit freedom, but for children it actually does the opposite.
When the child feels safe, there is more room for:
- Play
- Experiences
- Happy moments
Blogs you might also find interesting
Discover more
