The summer holidays are a brilliant opportunity for kids to unwind, explore and grow in ways they often don’t get to during the busy school term. But they can also bring their own set of challenges for parents and carers including how to keep some kind of routine going, how to stop screens from taking over and how to make sure they’re staying active, social, and stimulated without draining your own energy in the process!
Not every family has the option of going away on holiday, so it is important to remember that children don’t need big, expensive holidays to make lasting memories. Sometimes, the best moments come from simple things, day trips, garden picnics or just spending real quality time together.
For some children and teenagers, summer can also be a time of big transitions, moving from primary to secondary school, from secondary to college or from college into the world of work or university. These changes can bring a real mix of excitement, nerves and uncertainty and without the daily structure of school, those feelings can sometimes grow a little louder. It’s important to create space for conversations, reassurance, and moments of calm amid the chaos.
If you’re wondering how to strike that balance between fun and structure or how to stop the phrase "I’m bored!" becoming a daily soundtrack – you’re not alone. Whether you’re working through the holidays, juggling childcare, navigating a big change or simply trying to make it to September with your sanity intact, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 10 practical, parent-approved tips from Change Talks to help you navigate the summer break and keep your child active, happy, and healthy, no matter what your plans look like.
1. Create a loose routine
While it's important to let kids relax, having no structure at all can lead to restless energy and frayed nerves. A simple daily routine, breakfast by 9am, outdoor time before lunch and quiet time in the afternoon, can help keep things balanced without feeling like school.
2. Encourage outdoor adventures
Fresh air and sunshine do wonders for a child’s mood and energy levels. Local parks, woodlands, local community events and nature reserves are often free and full of opportunities for adventure. Get them involved in planning a nature scavenger hunt, walk, bike ride or building dens.
3. Prioritise physical activity
With no P.E. lessons on the timetable, kids need other ways to burn off energy. Encourage at least an hour of physical activity a day. Ideas include dancing around the living room, kicking a ball in the garden, swimming or skateboarding. Let them choose what excites them!
4. Make time for friends
Social interaction is vital especially during the holidays when children may miss their usual routines. Try to arrange regular playdates, trips to the park or shared activities with classmates or local friends. Not only does this help maintain friendships it also eases the transition back to school in September.
5. Limit screen time (without the battle)
Screens will be tempting especially on rainy days, but balance is key. Try setting “screen-free” times during the day, offering alternatives like crafts, puzzles or a reading challenge. You could also use screen time as a reward for completing chores or outdoor time.
6. Get creative indoors
Stock up on basic art supplies, LEGO, baking ingredients and cardboard boxes so you can let their imagination take over. Pinterest is packed with easy crafts and boredom busting activities. Getting creative can be just as fulfilling as going out and it’s a great way to bond too.
7. Take mini breaks together
You don’t need a luxury holiday to make lasting memories. A picnic in the park, a bus ride to a neighbouring town or even camping in the garden can feel like an adventure to a child. Think experiences not expense.
8. Help them keep learning (without feeling like school)
Learning doesn’t have to stop in the summer it just changes shape. Encourage curiosity through museum visits, science experiments at home or cooking.
9. Pick your battles
If you’re parenting a teenager over the summer, you’ll know it’s a whole different ballgame. Teenagers need more independence, more sleep and more space but that doesn’t mean they don’t need you too. The challenge is often in how that support looks as it may not be the same as it was even six months ago.
During the long holidays tensions can build when routines slip, expectations clash or you’re spending more time under one roof. If your teen seems glued to their phone, pushing boundaries or rejecting every suggestion you make, try not to take it personally. This is their way of testing independence, not of rejecting you.
Not everything has to be a fight. If their bedroom looks like a tornado hit it but they’re otherwise happy, safe, and respectful, maybe that’s one you let slide today. Focus on the values and boundaries that matter the most, kindness, honesty, health and safety. Try to give them ownership of their time and include them in decisions even if it’s choosing what to have for tea or when to go out for a walk.
And remember – as much as they may pretend they don't want your company most teens still enjoy quality time with family, they just might not admit it! A spontaneous trip to get ice cream, a shared film or a late-night chat can go a long way.
10. Look after yourself too
You don’t need a holiday park type entertainment schedule and it’s okay if every day isn’t packed with Instagram worthy plans. Look after your own wellbeing, take breaks when you can and don’t be afraid to lean on your support network.
The six week holiday is a chance to reconnect, refresh and enjoy simple pleasures. It’s a valuable time that doesn’t have to be perfect. Children don’t need grand adventures or jam-packed schedules to be happy, they want your time, attention and the freedom to be themselves.
There will be highs and lows including tired days, messy rooms, sibling squabbles and moments where you wonder if everyone is losing the plot, in those moments remember that’s completely normal. Give yourself permission to let some things go and to say yes to the spontaneous but rest when you need to.
With a little planning and a lot of flexibility, this summer can be one to remember for all the right reasons. Not because everything went smoothly but because you shared laughs, made memories and got through it together.
Trust that you’re doing your best and for your children, that’s more than enough!
