A Parents Guide to Half-Term Madness

A Parents Guide to Half-Term Madness

Stuck for something to do with the kids over the half-term break? Then be stuck no more as we give you some of the best tips on making half term fun (but relaxing) for both parents and children.

When are school half terms?

School half terms vary from school to school and county to county, so there is no country-wide term timetable to refer to. There are, however, a number of websites that provide term time data based on location, often detailing the term times a couple of years in advance. Typically, private schools will run their half term breaks around the same time-frame of state schools, but ultimately they have more control over their choices in start and end dates.

Most parents know that a half-term can be filled with plenty of mess and stress, so it’s vital that you plan your week ahead of time to save lots of rushing and stress filled journeys, especially if you have a young family.

Planning a Day Out

Firstly you should decide what you and your kids want to do on certain days during half term. It’s always a good idea to choose one “big day out” such as a visit to a theme park or the cinema, therefore your children will have something to look forward to during the time off.

Here is a step-by-step guide to planning your day out:

1.    Choose a location – This can cause plenty of squabbles, but if everyone puts a suggestion in a hat and it is picked at random, no one can complain! But they often do…
2.    Arrange transport – This one may sound simple, but if you plan on travelling with other friends and family, choosing the right vehicle to accommodate everyone is essential.
3.    Food – Something that is often overlooked, but packed lunches are a great way to keep trip costs down if money is a problem. It also saves having to find a place that does food everyone likes!
4.    Don’t be too ambitious – Everyone likes to spoil their children now and again with an amazing day out, but don’t stretch yourself too much! If you’re taking other parents children out as well it might not be a good idea to go to the seaside on your own!

One you have taken all of these things into account you can begin planning the details of your day and what you and your kids want to get up to!

What else can I do during half-term to keep the kids entertained?

Unfortunately it is not possible to take the kids out every day of the week thanks to finances and levels of mental well-being, so it is advisable to stock up on games, ingredients and other distractions that will keep your kids happy during their time off.

Here is a list of activities that you can do with the kids at home:

1.    Cooking and Baking – Often messy, but always fun. Kids love cooking and making things. All you need is some chocolate and a box of Rice Krispies and you have all the ingredients you need.
2.    Colouring and Painting – Once again, it can get very messy, but children can have hours of fun with a few crayons and some paper, so make sure you stock up!
3.    Visiting other friends – This is a great opportunity for you to relax and talk with other mums and dads over the half term, and gives your kids a chance to play with their friends.

Hopefully these simple tips will keep you from pulling your hair out over the half-term, but just remember to plan events and stock up on goodies in advance.