A survey of 1,000 parents with school-aged children revealed that the most stressful time typically coincides with children refusing to eat breakfast and instead causing chaos around the house. For 15 per cent, stress levels peak when their child can’t find their shoes, while for 21 per cent, it’s the struggle to get them into their uniform that causes the most tension.
The research, commissioned by Siemens Home Appliances, which has launched a Formula 1-inspired Coffee Pit Stop, a drive-up experience designed to give parents a well-deserved boost after the school run, found that peak stress time for parents is at 7:16am. Despite the chaotic start to the day, 42 per cent of parents confess to feeling a wave of relief once their children are safely at school – only to realise they haven’t had breakfast or even had time for a cup of tea themselves.
A spokesperson for the brand said: „School run mornings are hectic and stressful for so many parents, as our research clearly shows. The rush to get kids ready, out the door, and on with their day can leave parents feeling overwhelmed and drained.“
The study also discovered that nearly three quarters of parents find the school run stressful with 11 per cent admitting they would rather be on hold to their energy company than go through the routine.
While 33 per cent would prefer to be food shopping, and 28 per cent would rather take the bins out.
Four in ten said coffee was a vital part of their routine, and a many as nine per cent resort to the caffeinated beverage before 6:29am. However, despite playing a pivotal role 32 per cent confessed their hot drinks often get neglected.
As such, almost half seize the opportunity of a tranquil half an hour after the school run to savour a hot drink.
Yet, the stress doesn’t always stop once the kids are dropped off. According to the survey by OnePoll, it turns out 28 per cent have forgotten their work stuff after dropping their kids off. Others have realised they were still wearing their slippers or pyjamas.
The spokesperson for Siemens Home Appliances, which has launched its new EQ700 coffee machine, added: „We understand how challenging this daily routine can be, and we know how important that simple moment of enjoying a hot coffee can be to help parents recharge and feel ready to tackle whatever comes next.
„That’s why we created the Coffee Pit Stop – to offer a small but meaningful way to support parents and bring a bit of calm and comfort to their busy mornings.“
