4 ways to keep the kids entertained over summer

Rex London ambassador Pandora Maxton shares her latest tips and tricks for giving the kids a fun-filled summer on a budget...

The summer holidays are here, and if you're like me, you're probably wondering how to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank. As a mum, I know the struggle of balancing a memorable summer with budget-friendly activities. So, I've put together some of my favourite tips and tricks to help you make the most of the sunny days ahead. 

1. Creative picnics: make mealtime an adventure!

                                                                              Wild Wonders Teepee, £99.95

                                                                              Vintage Apple bento box, £9.95

                                                                              Vintage Apple snack boxes, £6.95

                                                                              Hearts jumbo storage bag, £5.95

                                                                              Dark green enamel tumbler, £8.95

Who said picnics have to be boring? Turn mealtime into an adventure by choosing a theme for your picnic. Whether it's a pirate treasure hunt, a fairy garden tea party, or a safari adventure, a themed picnic can be a great way to engage your kids' imaginations.

Get the kids involved in making snacks and food - I've always encouraged mine to get in the kitchen. Animal-shaped sandwiches, rainbow fruit skewers and making cakes are a great place to start. 

2. Outdoor games: classic fun with a twist

                                                                               Snakes and Ladders, £6.95

Remember the good old days of hide and seek, sardines and rounders? These games are timeless and can be jazzed up with a little DIY spirit. 

Create a mini Olympics in your garden with water balloon toss, hula hoop contests, and an obstacle course using items you already have at home. On sunny days, put a blanket outside and take the board games outside - make it feel different.

Budget hack: Use chalk to create hopscotch or a giant Twister game on your driveway or patio. It’s cheap, cheerful, and washes away with a bit of water!

3. Nature scavenger hunts: explore and learn

                                                                           Nature Trail magnifying glass, £3.95

A nature scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to get your kids excited about the outdoors. Make a list of items for them to find, like different types of leaves, flowers, rocks, or bugs. You can turn it into an educational experience by discussing the various plants and animals you encounter.

Pro tip: If you’re stuck indoors due to rain, try an indoor scavenger hunt with items around the house. You can even give it a twist by using clues or riddles to make it more challenging and fun!

4. Storytelling sessions: ignite their imagination

                                                                          Fairies in the Garden play ball, £12.95

Sometimes, all you need is a good story to entertain kids. Have a storytelling session in the garden or even indoors if the weather isn’t great. You can read from a book, make up your own stories, or even create a collaborative story where each person adds a line. It’s a fantastic way to stimulate creativity and encourage language skills.

Remember, the best summer memories are made from simple pleasures and spending quality time together. You don’t need to spend a lot of money to create magical experiences for your children. With a little creativity and enthusiasm, you can turn everyday activities into memorable adventures. 

 Here’s to a summer full of joy, laughter, and memories!

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