Keeping The Children Entertained In The Summer Holidays
With the summer holidays looming, parents across the country will be racking their
brains for ideas to keep the children entertained during their time off school/college and six weeks can seem a lifetime when faced with the cost of babysitters, summer camps and general outgoings to occupy them for days on end.However, there are plenty of things that children will enjoy that won't break the bank and it all boils down to being a bit creative and using the resources that you already have.
Start collecting early.
This is an age old classic: prior to the summer holidays, start collecting up odd bits and bobs that you would normally throw to waste or recycle. This could be anything from washing up bottles to cereal boxes or tin cans and plastic tubs. After a few weeks you will have accumulated a whole selection of materials that can be used to create a child's masterpiece. Think spaceships, castles and boats or something that the kids can play with or use afterwards, that way you are killing two birds with one stone as they while away the hours with their newly created toys.
Pre-book in advance.
With regards to money saving, expensive days out probably won't be at the top of your agenda but it is amazing how much you can save by pre-booking in advance. Museums, theme parks and art galleries often offer two-for-ones online or in local newspapers or a special discount rate if you book your tickets early. At such a busy time of year, 'kids go free' offers are everywhere and this can apply for restaurants or fast food outlets as well. Drag the children out of bed for an early start to avoid queues, allow them to let off some steam during the day and them fill them up with a hearty meal on the cheap and by the time you pack them in the car for the journey home, with any luck they will be asleep!
If you are lucky enough to be having a holiday abroad with the family, pre booking in advance is essential for your holiday extras too. Airport parking, travel insurance and car hire rental costs all increase closer to the date of travel so be sure to get in early for some good deals. This will enable plenty of time for a game of 'I went to the shop and brought....', without you having to worry about the costs of travel add-ons.
Get Lively.
It is common knowledge that you cannot rely on the British weather, however on those occasional sunny days we do get, make the most of your local area. Trips to the park, woods or seaside are all free, relatively easy to get to if close by and will provide children and their friends with a means of exercise and fresh air. Taking a picnic will break up the day and tennis rackets or footballs encourage children to make new friends as well.
Timetable the days.
It is understandable that a number of factors will affect your ability to keep children entertained for every waking minute of their summer holidays so scheduling their activities will help you to divide your time and spread your budget evenly across the six weeks. If the children know they have something exciting to look forward to once or twice a week, they won't get as bored on the days where they aren't doing so much. Days in the house could comprise of baking, reading, watching films and making things to keep minds active and brains stimulated.
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