Teletext
HOL LOT OF STRESS
Mums reckon going on holiday with the kids is more stressful than working in an office, a study revealed yesterday (Tues).
Researchers found one in four mums believe packing, travelling and keeping the children busy on arrival at the destination is tougher than managing a 9 to 5 job.
Amazingly, four out of ten admitted 'dreading' the annual family summer holiday while almost four out of ten avoid going abroad altogether because of the worry it causes.
The study of 2,000 mums was commissioned by Teletext Holidays.
Yesterday (Tues) Victoria Sanders of Teletext Holidays said: ''For many of the nation's mums the work carries on despite the fact that they're in a different location.
''Travelling with children can be a huge strain so it's not surprising so many mums come back from their annual summer break feeling that they need another holiday.
''Getting up early, preparing meals and tidying up after children doesn't stop on holiday and that means that some mums even admit they dread their summer beach break.
''Choosing the right holiday which allows parents to switch off is so important.''
While getting there and back emerged as the biggest headache for mums, other common stress triggers include trying to keep on top of chores such as making beds.
A lack of help from their other half and a feeling the break actually provides more of a rest for him than her can also cause friction.
Just over 36 per cent admitted rowing with their partner when they were on holiday because they didn't help out enough with the children.
It also emerged most mums still end up being lumbered with the chores, with almost three quarters admit they still spend their holiday clearing up after the children.
Fifty-two per cent said they still had to wash dishes while they were away.
More than 43 per cent said they always ended up slaving away at the stove on holiday, while half said making beds was still their job.
Incredibly, more than a third of mums went as far as to claim they don't fully switch off while they are away, with one in 20 claiming they 'never relax'.
And a staggering 80 per cent of mums feel in need of another holiday as soon as they get back home.
Victoria Sanders added: ''Research beforehand to choose a family friendly resort can help to ease the strain and we advise parents to consider all-inclusive holidays so that they don't have to go near a supermarket or cooker.
''Many hotels and resorts offer babysitting or an evening kids club so at least parents can go out for dinner on their own.''
