
Summer holidays are often a difficult time for parents and this year Covid-19 has made things even more challenging.
If you are struggling to keep the kids entertained then check out our list of ideas and cheap activities.
Things to do with the kids
Make a bird feeder. Bird feeders are really simple to make and can be a really quick and fun project to do with children of all ages. Bird cake recipe.
Go on a picnic. Make the most of sunny days and head for the local park. For inspiration check out these family picnic recipes.
Get messy with paper mache. Great for kids and adults alike. Let their imaginations run wild and create a stunning masterpiece with this simple paper mache recipe. All you need is some old newspaper, a balloon and some glue made from flour and water.
Make a lava lamp. Add a bit of retro bling to your home with these easy to make lava lamps. Using stuff you probably have lying around the kitchen, you and your family can make your very own lava lamp and learn a bit of science while doing it!
Keep them busy in the kitchen. Cooking is a great activity to do with the kids.Get fussy little eaters into the kitchen and turn them into little chefs with these easy and fun recipes that they will love tasting. From simple no bake recipes to more elaborate baking ideas, there are recipes for everyone whatever their age or ability.
Get crafty with toilet roll tubes. Who knew you could make so much from the humble toilet roll tube? From spaceships to desk organisers the list of possibilities is endless. Check out 15 things to make with toilet roll tubes.
Make your own stickers. All kids love stickers, so why not have a go at making your own? Follow this step by step guide.
Make your own Play-doh. This Play-doh recipe is easy to make and will keep the kids busy for hours.
Draw with Rob. Award winning author and illustrator Rob Biddulph has created a number of draw-along videos on his YouTube channel for parents and kids to follow to make some nice pictures together. They are easy to do and brilliant fun.
Get building with Lego. The brilliant people at That Brick Life have put together this 31 Days of Summer Challenge Calendar. Download and print the calendar, get creative and start building.
Create home-made beautiful cards with pressed flowers. Gather some fresh flowers and press them between two sheets of paper, weighted down with some heavy books. After about 2 weeks the flowers should be ready to use and can be glued on to some card to create home-made greeting cards.
Make a bug hotel. Get closer to nature. Create a home for insects and place it on your balcony or in your garden and see who comes to visit! Follow these simple step by step instructions.