As another academic year comes to an end, many children are naturally looking forward to the summer holidays ahead. However, the shift from structured routines to relaxed days can sometimes be overwhelming and, without a plan, some children can fall into habits of late nights, screen time overload, and inactivity… which will of course make September and the start of a new year all the more daunting.
Here are some of our top tips to help your child ease out of school routines, while staying active and engaged all summer long.
Encourage daily movement
Physical activity is essential for children’s health, especially during long summer days. Without PE or playtimes, children may become less active than they usually are during the school term. So why not create a “morning movement challenge”? 10x Jumping jacks, 5 minutes of yoga, or dancing for one whole song, there are many activities that don’t rely on equipment or lots of space to complete!
Some other ideas include:
- Making the most out of the long evenings by going for a family post dinner walk or bike ride.
- Signing children up to a local sports holiday camp to stay engaged, make friends, and have fun.
Make outdoor play a daily habit
Sunshine, fresh air, and unstructured play have huge mental, social and physical benefits. Outdoor play encourages children’s creativity, teamwork, and independence. Here are a few ideas that you can do outside.
- Nature scavenger hunts – an example – find three leaves, two sticks and one bird. What do they look like? How do the leaves feel?
- Obstacle courses in the garden.
- Water play with sprinklers, paddling pools, or sponge toss games
- Visit local parks or open green spaces.
Stay hydrated
As temperatures rise and activity increases, children need more hydration and healthy energy sources like fruit and vegetables.
- Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere you go.
- Offer fruit-infused water as a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks.
- Cut fruit up and take it with you for some healthy nibbles!
If you’re looking for something more active and structured during the summer holidays, check out our Active Holiday camps and HAF programmes, designed to improve children’s physical, mental and social wellbeing and feel confident all summer long.
To find out more about our Active Holiday camps near you, visit our website.