School is officially out for summer, which means one thing – keeping the kids entertained for the next six weeks! While the school holidays are always when core memories are made, it can also leave parents scratching their heads wondering how they’ll fill each day without hearing, “I’m Bored!”
That’s where our summer holidays bucket list comes in! From outdoor adventures, to rainy-day crafts, we’ve gathered plenty of easy ideas to keep little ones smiling all summer long. Read on to discover more…
Bike ride
Simple yet effective, bike rides are a great way to stimulate the mind and get active – plus, they tire the kids out too, so it’s a win-win! Whether you explore your local area or head to your local bike-friendly park, a bike ride is always worthwhile. Even better when there’s a coffee or ice cream waiting for you once you’ve reached your destination.
Water balloon fight
Great for older kids wanting to let off some steam on a hot day, water fights create memories that will last a lifetime. Buy some water balloons and let them go wild! You could even give them free rein with the hose if you’re feeling brave.
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Camping in the garden
A night they won’t forget! Camping in the garden might seem simple to us, but kids absolutely love it. Spend the day pitching the tent, baking treats for the evening ahead, and making sure they have everything they need before they settle in for a night under the stars. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the excitement of camping without venturing too far from home.
Baking
The perfect rainy day activity, baking keeps little minds engaged and hands busy, with a delicious reward at the end – the best kind of activity! BBC Good Food has plenty of amazing recipes to get stuck into, discover them here.
Build a blanket fort
Another rainy day activity they’re sure to love – build a blanket fort. Get creative using household items such as chairs, sofa cushions, clothes horses, sheets and blankets to create the ultimate cosy den. Extra brownie points if you can squeeze in a movie with their favourite snacks while relaxing inside!
Paint rocks
Stone painting is a brilliant way to get the kids outdoors exploring while also tapping into their creativity. Perfect for when you need an activity to fill the day, start by heading out on a rock hunt – whether that’s at the beach, in the park or simply around your local area. Smooth, flat stones tend to work best!
Once you’re back, give the stones a good wash and leave them to dry while you enjoy some lunch. Then it’s time to get creative! From colourful patterns and animals to their favourite characters, there are endless possibilities. If your little one needs a bit of inspiration, there are plenty of ideas on social media.
Once they’ve finished their masterpieces, hide the painted stones around your local area for others to discover or leave them somewhere to brighten someone’s day. It’s a fun activity you can enjoy again and again throughout the holidays.
Beach Day
A great day out for the whole family, pack a blanket and some camping chairs and set up at the beach for the day. Spend your time building sandcastles, digging holes, enjoying an ice cream and tucking into fish and chips – what’s not to love? If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you could even brave the sea, but be sure to swim where there’s a lifeguard on duty, of course!
Movie Night
Another easy one! Turn an ordinary film into a cosy movie night with microwave popcorn, plenty of blankets on the sofa and their favourite films. It’s a simple way to make the evening feel a little more special while keeping everyone entertained.
Day at the farm
You can’t beat a day at the farm! It might be summer, but there’s still plenty to see and do, from feeding lambs and holding fluffy chicks to meeting the goats and other friendly animals. Many farms also have outdoor play areas, tractor rides and cafés, making it a fun-filled day out for the whole family. Don’t forget to pack your wellies – things can get a little muddy!
Picnic in the park
Switch up your usual lunchtime by packing sandwiches, crisps and a few sweet treats into a cool bag before heading to your local park. Lay out a picnic blanket, enjoy lunch in the sunshine, then make the most of the afternoon by feeding the ducks, playing on the swings and having a good run around.
Chalk on the floor
Tired of colouring in? Mix things up with chalk! Cheap, cheerful and easy to wash away, it’s a brilliant way to let their creativity run wild while feeling just a little bit mischievous. The patio, driveway or garden path makes the perfect canvas for colourful drawings, games and hopscotch. Just make sure they know the difference between chalk on the pavement and felt tip pens on the walls!
Create a reading list
Turn reading into a fun game by creating a reading bucket list. It might not sound like the most exciting activity, but kids love working towards a goal – especially when there’s a reward waiting at the end! A summer reading bucket list is a great way to keep their minds active and their literacy skills ticking over during the holidays. Get creative by making a colourful reading chart and let them tick off each book as they go. Once they reach their goal, celebrate with a well-earned treat. Simple, fun and educational!
Make ice lollies
A great way to cool down on a hot summer’s day, homemade ice pops are just as fun to make as they are to eat. Get the kids involved by choosing their favourite fruits and flavours, then pop them in the freezer ready to enjoy later. Need some inspiration? Check out these delicious recipes from BBC Good Food, here.
Car wash
An activity that’s fun and productive? Count us in! Put the kids in charge of washing the family car – they’ll love splashing about, and let’s be honest, it probably needs a clean anyway. Arm them with a sponge, a bucket of warm, soapy water and let them get to work. Just don’t be surprised if they end up covered in more bubbles than the car! You could even hand over the hose, but at your own risk.
