Children all over Britain are itching at the thought of the half-term break coming just around the corner. The sun is finally coming out and they can’t wait to go a little crazy after the long winter. For parents, on the other hand, half term can be more of a nightmare. What is there to do? There’s not enough time for a holiday, but still plenty for idle hands to get up to no good! This half term, why not try some fun and productive activities that kids can enjoy and learn from? I’ve thought up a few interesting ideas of my own. Be sure to let me know what you think!
- Plant a Vegetable Patch
If it’s nice out, you know the kids are going to end up getting dirty anyway, so you might as well have them do something productive. Clear out a little space in the garden or get a flower trough for the terrace and plant some seeds. Make sure to explain the necessity for sun, water and soil, and even photosynthesis you want to get brainy. If you start on the first day of break, you may see some sprouts popping up by the end of the week!
- Make a Movie
This is sure to inspire loads of creativity while keeping the rascals busy for hours or even days. Let the kids write a zany script and then design their own costumes and props using things around the house. Once the pre-production is complete, film the masterpiece and have an official premier with popcorn. Don’t have a camera? No worries. You can rent a great one from Jessops for as little as two days and have lots of fun at a low price.
- Play a Board Game
With all the electronic gadgets and video games around nowadays, most families have lost touch with the old fashioned board game such as Backgammon. Board games are one of the best activities for families. Everyone can get involved, they stimulate and entertain, and they require you to actually interact with one another! Who would have imagined such a thing could be so much fun?
- Foodie Night at Home
Introduce your little ones to some new flavours by choosing a dish to prepare together. Make it something interesting that no one has ever had before so you can all relish in the mystery! This is a great opportunity to introduce the kids to some kitchen safety habits.
If you’re not much a cook yourself, just order in! Choose a variety of ethnic dishes from Thai, Vietnamese and Turkish restaurants and have them delivered right to your door from Hungry House.
- Go Camping
Camping is a perfect mini-holiday for half-term break. You can go camping for one night or stretch it into a weekend. Either way, there’s never a campsite far from home. If you can’t make it out of town, just pitch a tent in the garden! You can tell some tales, eat some hot dogs and teach a little outdoor safety while you’re bunking under the stars.
Collaboration