As the school year winds down, many parents begin the annual challenge of keeping their children entertained over the summer holidays. With a bit of planning and creativity, the summer months can be a fantastic opportunity for children to learn, explore and have fun. Here are some engaging and low-stress activities to keep your child happy, active, and busy all summer long, inspired by the practices of this private girl’s schoolthis private girl’s school.
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1. Get Creative With Arts and Crafts
Set up a mini art studio at home where your child can paint, draw, cut and glue to their heart’s content. From rock painting and DIY tie-dye to homemade slime and collage making, arts and crafts are not only fun but also great for improving fine motor skills and encouraging self-expression. Plus, it’s a perfect indoor activity for those inevitable rainy days!
2. Explore the Outdoors
Make the most of the warmer weather by heading outdoors. Nature walks, bike rides, scavenger hunts and gardening are all brilliant ways for children to burn off energy and connect with the natural world. You could even turn your garden into a mini campsite for the night – pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and enjoy some screen-free time under the stars.
3. Join a Local Holiday Club
If you’re working through the summer or just want your child to enjoy structured activities with others, local holiday camps and clubs are a fantastic option. Many offer a wide range of themes, from sport and drama to science and coding, allowing your child to explore new interests while socialising with peers in a safe environment.
4. Try Simple Science Experiments
Turn your kitchen into a science lab with fun (and safe!) experiments. From making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar to creating a rainbow in a jar, science activities are a brilliant way to keep curious minds engaged. Best of all, many experiments use everyday household items.
5. Encourage Reading and Storytelling
Keep young minds sharp over the break with summer reading challenges or a family book club. Let your child pick out their own books at the local library or try writing their own stories. If they’re not keen readers, audiobooks or storytelling podcasts can also be a great alternative.
6. Get Cooking Together
Children love helping in the kitchen – and summer is a great time to get them involved in cooking and baking. Simple recipes like homemade pizzas, fruit kebabs, or cupcakes are perfect for little hands. It’s a fun way to teach basic kitchen skills and even sneak in a little maths and science.
7. Make Time for Free Play
Don’t forget to leave room in the schedule for unstructured play. Building dens, creating obstacle courses, or simply playing with toys and friends helps children develop independence, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your child entertained over the summer doesn’t have to mean screen time or expensive days out. With a balance of planned activities and freedom to play, you can help your child make the most of their summer while creating memories to last a lifetime.
