In our house we really look forward to summer holidays and being able to relax, slow down and let the routine slip a bit.
We all know that keeping kids busy is the best way to ensure that everyone is happy and we remain sane at the same time. It is nice, however, to allow for days without a plan and just go with the flow. To be honest, going with the flow is our thing most of the time! That doesn’t mean doing nothing and staring at the telly (although there is a bit of time for that here and there) but relying on our own local resources and creativity to have a great time with the kids “on the cheap” without stressing out too much. At the end of the day it’s all about creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Interested enough? Please read on…
1. Bake cookies and make ice cream sandwiches.
All you need is a simple recipe and a bit of patience. Yes it will get a bit messy but clearing up afterwards can be part of the fun.
2. Go to the beach and collect shells.
We are really privileged having beach on our doorstep so might as well take advantage of it as much as we can. Collecting shells which we then decorate at home is great pastime kids love.
3. Make a fort out of cardboard boxes.
Do I need to convince anybody regarding the awesomeness and versatility of this activity? Not only will your child play for hours but will also learn very important life/survival skills (in addition to using VAST amounts of packing tape). No boxes? Do not fret! Blankets, chairs and pegs will do the job as well.
4. PYO (Pick Your Own)
How about visiting your local farm and getting kids to pick their own fruit/veg? Great lesson at “where your food comes from” plus it doesn’t get any fresher than that.
5. Plant a mini herb/veggie garden
After a bit of PYO why not planting some herbs/tomatoes/chillies in the little pot in the garden or even on a windowsill. Planting, watering, watching them grow… Love it!
6. Go for a walk and make a collage out of objects you collect along the way
7. Picnics
Whether it’s your local park or your own garden, picnics are great. Make kids come up with the idea for themed picnic too, they will love it.
8. Visit your local library
Check out ‘Big Friendly Read’ – Summer Reading Challenge run by local libraries throughout the summer https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries/additional-library-services/library-services-for-children-and-young-people/summer-reading-challenge/
9. Pretend to be Pirates/Princesses for a day
Dress up, plan a treasure hunt, build a castle etc.
10. Make paper boats and race them in a paddling pool using straws to propel them
Your kids will think you are so cool for coming up with this idea 🙂