Kids of any age usually can't resist a paddle in a river or stream. Grab a picnic, some fishing nets and see if you can find a spot near you.
The summer holidays can often be expensive, even if you're not going away. Holiday clubs, day trips, keeping the fridge stocked - it all adds up. And that's before you've even thought about the cost of getting the kids back to school.
This year, the cost-of-living crisis is making it even more challenging than usual.
In May 2022, 88% of us said the cost of living had rocketed. Hardly surprising when gas prices are up by 95% (over the previous year) and electricity by 54% (1). And, that by June 2022, the average cost of a full tank of petrol soared up to £100 for the first time (2).
Hang in there. Fun times don't have to be expensive. Why not try a few of our summer savings ideas? They could help keep your kids busy, without busting your budget.
The average cost of full-time childcare in the school holidays is £148 a week, according to Coram Family and Childcare (3). Private or specialist holiday camps (like sport or drama) could cost around £35, or even more a day, especially if you need an early drop-off or late pick-up.
Scaling back on the number of days you book could be a no-brainer. Especially if you work from home and became a master of multitasking during the pandemic.
If that's a no-no, or you want your kids to stay away from their screens, here's another way you could cut costs.
The tax-free childcare scheme is an online account that you can use to pay for childcare. There are currently some substantial financial benefits included, which are very widely available, so it’s well worth taking a look.
Most people associate the scheme with pre-school childcare, but it can also be used to pay for after school or holiday clubs. You just need to check the childcare provider or holiday club you’re using is signed up to the scheme.
Just bear in mind, your eligibility depends on:
Check the government’s Tax Free Childcare pages for details and how to apply. It might be too late for this school holiday, but it could be very useful to have this support for the future.
Another option is to team up with other parents and try a ‘you have mine and I’ll have yours’ approach. As long as days are agreed in advance, everyone can benefit and not feel like they’re asking for a favour.
Kids glued to their screens? And do they call all your other entertainment suggestions "BORING?" How about getting them to use their screen time in a new way? Free language apps are full of fun ways to help them learn another lingo. Coding apps could teach them how to make their own video games. YouTube addicts in the family could make their own videos and showcase them at a home-movie night with friends. Popping corn isn't expensive and a little makes a lot of popcorn.
Ask local friends or neighbours if they've got any second-hand uniforms you can have or swap. On top of saving you money, it's better for the environment. Another option is to put requests on school social media groups. Parents will usually be happy to pass it on for free, but you also have the option of making a donation to the PTA.