The summer holidays can be a really fun time for kids but a really stressful time for parents. Not just juggling work and childcare, but finding things for children to do all day every day can be a challenge, even with just one child on your hands.
Not to worry, there are plenty of things to do and activities to plan to make sure your kids aren’t bored or irritating you, while still getting the best out of their summer holiday.
Good Weather
Make a ground rule early on that good weather equals outdoor playtime. Sunshine and exercise are key for keeping your kids healthy and happy, so make sure they are getting both. There’s no room for “I’m bored!” or TV and internet time if the sun is shining!
Bad Weather
Have back up plans
for rainy days, like board games, den building, movie nights, or indoor games of hide and seek. There is plenty they can do to keep them energized and amused while escaping the weather and keeping pennies in the bank.
Trips Out
About once a week, it’s a good idea to plan a fun day out. This can be a day on the beach, a day in town shopping or seeing a movie, going for a walk, or going further afield for a day out.
Study Time
Summer holidays aren’t an ‘escape’ from all learning. Make sure that they are still actively reading and writing while they are relaxing, which is important so the going back to school doesn’t seem such a momentous occasion. Encourage them with family trips to the library to get them excited for sitting down with a book. It’s also important for some quiet time so that you and everybody else in the family can stay sane!