by Lisa Thaxter

Created on: June 09, 2008   Last Updated: November 19, 2010

Title: How to keep the children amused in the summer holidays
(whilst on a tight budget!)

The summer holidays are fast approaching. Are you a parent who, like me, cannot wait to have their offspring clung tightly to the maternal apron strings? Or are you dreading the thought of trying to keep them amused for six weeks? Do not despair, there is light at the end of the long tunnel. All that is needed is a little bit of forward thinking, planning and preparation. Try to treat this time as a real bonding, fun time for you and your little ones and you will not be disappointed.

Many parents worry, and rightly so, about money. How do you keep them happy for six weeks, and on a tight budget? Your salary does not increase, unfortunately, so what do you do? Before the holidays arrive, let's say one month before, start a `Things to do List'. Label it week one, week two and so on. Aim to keep to a budget of one activity per week that will cost you; for example, a soft play area, museum or bowling perhaps. The rest of the week, you can keep them content with activities that do not have to cost an arm and a leg. Realise that the kiddies, having your undivided attention for at least some period of the day, will benefit greatly. No amount of money can come close to that.

Here's a few ideas you may like to try.

Cooking day: Have a complete day of baking. Make cookies, fairy cakes and bread. Don't worry about the mess; just let their imaginations run wild. Keep the costs low by stocking up beforehand with ingredients.

Painting day: Collect old cereal boxes, toilet roll holders, yoghurt pots and anything you can think of to paint. Big stones are a great success in our house. If it's a bright day take a plastic table cover (costs approx 3.00) and place in the garden. Paint your objects a rainbow of colours and join in yourself. Then watch their faces as they see mum/dad concentrating hard on their piece of art!

Mural day: This can keep everyone happy for half a day. Take large pieces of white paper and stick together. Get your child to lie down on the paper and draw around him/her. Cut out and then get them to decorate the Mural how they want. Use pieces of fabric, paper (scrunching tissue paper always gets a thumbs up) or anything that springs to mind. My son has his power ranger Mural stuck firmly on his bedroom door, whilst my daughter's princess takes pride of place in her room. Believe me, your little ones will not tire of having such a cool object.

Shopping: Even the weekly shop can be turned into an adventure. Give them a shopping list of their own and help them to find `their' items. Even the youngest will love the idea of helping. they will also learn, as colours of fruit/veg can add to the excitement. A treat can always be awarded when they get home, and watch as they look forward to next week's shop!

Don't lose hope. Remember to budget and plan, then try not to forget that your little ones are not little for long so make the most of those wonderful weeks together.

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