Studies have found that children are spending 23 hours a week on electronic devices. Yes 23 hours! And to make it even worse, they’re only spending 12 hours a week talking to their parents. When did the world go so wrong? – (Source)
So our aim for this summer is to get children away from screens and keep them active outdoors or getting creative indoors – whatever the weather. You don’t have to worry about thinking how to drag your child away from their electronic devices, as we’ve done all the hard work for you!
Free and low-cost activities
- Board games
This is a great way for either some family or friend bonding – and the competitive ones really do show their true colours! The UK’s most popular board games are…
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- Monopoly
- Trivial Pursuit
- Scrabble
- Pictionary
Who doesn’t love those classics? If you’re feeling a little more creative and want to switch things up, we’ve thought of some others which you may not have played before…
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- Who’s in the hat?
- A to Z
- I went to the market
The rules to all of these games are easily explained online!
2. Getting creative
When the weather isn’t so nice outside (which is rather often in the UK!), we’ve thought of some hands-on activities for children to bring out their creative side.
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- Mason Jar candles
- Framed wall art
- Dream catcher making
- Jewellery making
- Magnetic slime
- Creating a stress ball
- How to make a paper plane
- DIY speaker
3. Playing sport
Trying to get children outside and being active can be hard, but when they’re with friends or family, it can make things easier. If you have sporting grounds, fields or parks nearby, get together for a friendly game of football, basketball or cricket, or enjoy a family bike ride.
4. Sweet treats
Baking is something that’s low cost and very easy to do. Kid-friendly recipes such as Victoria sponge cake, cupcakes and cookies use the simplest of ingredients which many of us already have. Take a look at some of these scrumptious recipes which are super easy to make.
5. Cheap and cheerful days out
Many cities, towns and villages have a local city guide which can be found online, including any nearby activities and events which are free to attend, such as festivals, shows and museum exhibits. This would be a cheap and cheerful day out with either family or friends, as well as a great way to help support local communities.
Paid activities under £20
- Escape rooms
These are a great way to get out of the house and gets those brain cells ticking, as well as enjoy a thrilling experience. Not only does it tap into children’s problem-solving skills, but it’s a brilliant bonding experience.
- Wall climbing
Not your usually everyday activity, but one that’ll keep you active whilst having fun. A great way to improve children’s co-ordination and motor skills, as well as build their confidence and help overcome a fear of heights.
- National Trust parks
The National Trust has many treasured houses and buildings which have magical gardens and parks, with lots of walking trails around the grounds which offer beautiful views. Bring a picnic or opt for one of their inside activities if the weather isn’t nice.
- Trampoline park
We want you to be leaping for joy! This is a great way to get away from screens for such a low cost. Trampolines make exercise fun for both children and adults (and it’s a great way to tire them out!). You won’t regret it.
- High ropes course
Do you fancy hanging from ropes and channelling your inner Tarzan? Then a high ropes course is for you. Swing from the trees, tackle the heights and overcome obstacles in this ultimate outdoor adventure.
Adventurous activities
- Outside adventure park
This is a great way to have fun whilst spending the day outside. As well as adventurous playgrounds, many have farms or wildlife centres you can visit too.
- Theme park
Are your children thrill seekers? Make their summer packed with exciting and fun activities. A theme park is a great way to also get the children outdoors and enjoying the fresh air whilst having a ‘whale of a time’.
- Indoor skiing
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are lots of skiing lessons for all abilities at your nearest skiing centre. We know skiing on artificial snow isn’t the same as the real thing, but it still doesn’t mean they aren’t as fun! Ski, snowboard or sledge your way down the slope and enjoy the thrills without the hefty price tag!
- Aqua park
Do you enjoy an obstacle course? Then try it on water to make it that little bit harder! This is a fun, competitive activity that’ll keep children occupied for hours.
- Summer sports clubs
Many cities, towns and villages offer local summer sports clubs for many different sports activities. This is a great way to keep them occupied over the summer holidays and let them try different sports, learn new skills and make new friends.