IRELAND’S PRIMARY SCHOOLS closed last month to kickstart the annual two-month break from classes.

For many parents, it’s the start of the scramble to try and sort out some type of accommodation and activities for their children for the summer off.

But July and August can be difficult times for families, as parents can often find themselves juggling their limited annual leave with the eight-week-break.

So how are you handling the break this summer?

• How hard was it to arrange childcare for your family this summer? How much did it cost?
• If you’re self-employed, how are you getting on? And for others, how does your employer handle requests for balancing time off at this time of year?
• Planning rules require developers to include a crèche with 20 childcare places for every 75 homes built in an estate – is this helping at all for your younger children?
• What support do you think could be provided by the government?
• What do you think of the recent suggestion that school holidays need to be shorter?

Please get in touch by emailing answers@thejournal.ie and telling us about your situation.

Please include your name, county, and children’s age(s), and let us know if you would like to remain anonymous.