Scheduling ‘Staycations’ with the Family that Include Business-Free Boundaries

If balancing work and family feels like a never-ending job, taking a true break can be essential. Planning a family staycation with clear, business-free boundaries allows you to recharge and enjoy quality time without leaving home. Here’s how to set up those boundaries and make the most of your family staycation.

1. Establish Business-Free Spaces and Times

Decide ahead of time where and when work will be off-limits. These boundaries can help everyone stay fully engaged and in the moment.

• Device-Free Zones: Pick specific areas where work devices, like laptops and phones, aren’t allowed—consider keeping them out of living areas and bedrooms.
• Set Times for Screen Breaks: Plan specific hours each day to turn off work notifications and email, giving you uninterrupted time with your family.

Agreeing on these limits helps everyone understand that this time is fully dedicated to family.

2. Notify Work Contacts in Advance

Letting clients or colleagues know about your staycation plans can help minimize disruptions.

• Update Out-of-Office Responses: Before your break, add an automatic email reply with the dates of your time off and when you’ll be available again.
• Assign Urgent Tasks: Delegate any critical tasks or ask a trusted colleague to cover urgent needs while you’re away. This preparation allows you to enjoy your staycation without work stress sneaking in.

Setting these expectations ahead of time can make your time off truly work-free.

3. Plan Simple, Enjoyable Activities

Focusing on low-key family activities is a great way to unwind without needing constant phone or screen access. Here are a few ideas:

• Backyard Picnic or Campout: Make an outdoor day or night out of it with simple treats, blankets, and maybe even a little tent.
• Game or Movie Night: Bring out favorite board games or create a theme for movie night—keeping things relaxed and fun.
• Creative Hobbies Together: Bake a recipe, do a simple craft, or try some backyard painting. These activities create a shared focus and are great for family bonding.

Planning activities that don’t require extensive prep keeps things light and lets everyone unwind.

4. Keep Work Talk Off the Table

To get the most out of your staycation, set a “no work talk” rule during your time together. Avoiding work conversations helps keep everyone focused on family moments.

• Share Personal Stories: Use this time to talk about everyone’s favorite recent memories, future plans, or new hobbies.
• Discuss Family Goals: Staycations are also a nice opportunity to discuss upcoming family events, plans, or shared goals.

Keeping work topics out of conversation can make the time feel truly restful and connected.

5. Set Daily Intentions for Family Connection

Starting each day with a shared focus, like “today we’ll focus on gratitude” or “let’s make today about playfulness,” can add meaning to your time together.

• Morning Check-In: Begin each morning by having everyone share one thing they’re looking forward to that day.
• Evening Reflection: End the day by talking about each person’s favorite part or what they enjoyed most. It’s a nice way to appreciate the time spent together.

These simple practices encourage everyone to stay engaged and make the most of the staycation experience.

Enjoy the Break Without Work Interruptions

A staycation, even without leaving home, can be an ideal way to reconnect with your family. By setting clear boundaries and planning activities with intention, you’ll create a refreshing, memorable experience for everyone—without work distractions.