The peak stress time for parents on the school run kicks in at 7:16 am, right when morning chaos is at its height. A recent poll of 1,000 mums and dads of school-aged kids revealed that this frenzy often coincides with children refusing breakfast and running wild around the house. For some, the pressure mounts when kids can’t find their shoes or resist putting on their uniforms. In fact, a staggering 42% of parents admit to feeling a wave of relief once their children are safely through the school gates—only to realize they haven’t eaten breakfast or had time for a cup of coffee themselves.

We commissioned this research as part of our mission to alleviate some of that morning chaos. The study found that nearly three-quarters of parents consider the school run stressful. The situation is so intense that 11% of respondents would rather endure a lengthy hold on a call to their energy company than navigate the morning routine. Incredibly, a third of parents would even prefer food shopping over the school run, and more than a quarter would choose to take out the bins.

Amid this madness, coffee emerges as a crucial lifesaver, with 39% of parents relying on caffeine to kick-start their routines. Interestingly, 32% admit their beloved hot drinks often get forgotten in the rush, while 45% say they wish for a peaceful half-hour after drop-off to enjoy their drinks. However, the stress doesn’t end there—28% of parents often find they’ve forgotten work essentials or even still have their slippers on after the drop-off hustle.

To support parents navigating these chaotic mornings, we hosted a pop-up Formula 1-inspired Coffee Pit Stop at Bluewater shopping centre. The aim was to provide a unique drive-up experience where parents could pull in and grab free barista-style coffee made with the EQ700 after completing the hectic school run. Baristas, dressed as pit crew, serve up coffee with F1-worthy speed, ensuring tired parents get the boost they need without any pit lane skills required.

With the EQ700 coffee machine, parents can enjoy barista-style, café-quality coffee at the touch of a button. This incredible appliance also offers cold brew options and features an iSelect Display for easy personalisation. So next time the chaos of the school run threatens to overwhelm you, remember that a quick stop for coffee can offer a moment of pause in your morning madness.

Top 20 Stressors During the School Run:

1. The kids take forever to do simple tasks

2. The kids aren’t ready on time

3. Convincing my children to brush their teeth

4. It is always a last-minute rush

5. Having to run back inside for one more thing, numerous times

6. It is hard to get myself and them ready on time

7. I can’t get them out of bed

8. Convincing my children to put their uniform on

9. The children always forget things

10. Meltdowns over the smallest of inconveniences

11. Spilling food on a clean uniform

12. I have to get multiple children ready

13. Getting myself ready

14. My children won’t listen to me

15. Making sure my children have clean uniforms to wear

16. The kids won’t eat their breakfast

17. Rain starting just as you step out of the front door

18. Realising you have left their lunchbox at home

19. Finding my children’s uniform/shoes

20. Catching my children when they are running around the house