Even if she drinks her coffee from a ‘World’s Best Boss’ mug every morning, and everyone in the office (including the grump in accounts) thinks there’s a fair chance it’s true, there’s still almost no chance that your boss will be ok with you – and everyone else – taking off the school holidays.

As much as the kids look forward to those long days away from the classroom, school holidays can be something of a headache for the parents who need to figure out how to keep them safe, happy, healthy, and of course entertained for that time.

Here are the some of the best options for handling  those holiday breaks, which always seem to spring up out of nowhere.

Childcare options for Australian parents

• Out Of School Hours (OOSH): Check to see if your children’s school offers any OOSH programs. This option is easy, affordable, and doesn’t break up your child’s routine too much.
• Other schools: If your school doesn’t offer OOSH programs, or doesn’t have room, check around other nearby schools, as children don’t usually need to be enrolled in that school to attend.
• Holiday care programs: You might be surprised at the range of organisations (both for- and not-for-profit) that offer holiday care. Check with your local YMCA, church, and council to see if there are any near you.
• Daycare centres: These centres typically accept kids of a range of ages and group them together when they arrive. Be sure to ask if you’re supposed to pack a lunch or if one is provided.
• A nanny: A nanny is a good option for parents who’d like their kids to remain at home in a familiar environment, and receive personal care. Keep in mind that you can get together with another family to help share the costs.
• Child swaps: Perhaps you can take at least some time off these holidays to spend with the kids. If this is the case, see if you can find another family that’s in the same boat, and you can organise to look after their child during one week, and they can look after yours for another. Just make sure the kids like each other first!

How to get on top of your school holiday childcare needs  

The first thing to do is decide how you want your child to spend the school holidays. If you choose a childcare centre option, unfortunately, many facilities have long waiting lists. Sign them up as soon as you make a decision, and call around several local places to see which ones might have room sooner rather than later.

You can also check to see if you’re eligible for the Child Care Benefit (CCB) or a Child Care Rebate (CCR). Your income level determines the former, and the latter is determined by the reason you’re using childcare (such as work or study).

And if school holidays are always jumping at you out of nowhere, download the Australian School Holidays app onto your phone, so you know exactly when they get started!