Prevent Holiday Boredom

With school holidays on the horizon get ahead of the boredom game!

Summer holidays are a much-anticipated break for kids, but for parents, they can sometimes feel overwhelming without proper planning. Between keeping children entertained, managing schedules, and possibly travelling, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable summer. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for the summer break with ease.

1. Plan Activities Ahead of Time

The key to a successful summer is having a mix of structured and free time. Research local events, such as outdoor festivals, free museum days, or community workshops. Many towns offer summer programs for kids, from sports camps to arts and crafts sessions.

Create a loose itinerary with a balance of:

- Outdoor adventures (beach trips, hiking, or park picnics)

- Creative projects (DIY crafts, baking, or science experiments)

- Quiet time (reading, puzzles, or movie days)

Having a plan prevents last-minute stress and ensures kids stay engaged without screen time.

2. Stock Up on Summer Essentials

Avoid mid-holiday dashes to the shops by preparing a summer kit. Essentials include:

- Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, UV swimwear)  - First-aid basics (plasters, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent)

- Entertainment backups (books, travel games, art supplies)

If you’re travelling, pack a separate bag with snacks, wet wipes, and portable chargers to keep kids comfortable on the go.

3. Establish a Flexible Routine

While summer is a break from school, a little structure helps prevent chaos. Consider:

- Set meal and bedtime windows (allowing some flexibility)

- Daily responsibilities (simple chores or tidying up toys)

- Scheduled quiet time (great for recharging)

A routine keeps kids from feeling restless while still allowing plenty of time for fun.

4. Get Travel-Ready Early

If you’re going on a trip, involve kids in packing their own suitcases (with your supervision). Use checklists to ensure nothing is forgotten, and prepare entertainment for travel, include colouring books, audiobooks, or tablet games can be lifesavers during long journeys.

For road trips, plan rest stops and pack a cool-bag with healthy snacks to avoid too many fast-food stops.

5. Encourage Independence & Learning

Summer is a great time for kids to develop new skills. Encourage them to:

- Help with meal prep (simple recipes or packing their own snacks)

- Start a hobby (gardening, photography, or coding games)

- Keep a summer journal (documenting adventures or writing stories)

6. Budget-Friendly Fun

Summer activities can add up quickly, but there are plenty of low-cost options:

- Library summer reading programs

- DIY garden camping

- Neighbourhood scavenger hunts

- Local parks

With a little preparation, summer holidays can be relaxing and fun for the whole family.