The ultimate summer pack for parents
Not every idea in our ultimate summer pack for parents will suit your family – and that’s completely okay. Instead of feeling pressured to do it all, simply pick what feels manageable and right for you, and let the rest go.
Keeping your child entertained
The summer holidays offer a wonderful chance for children to explore, create and grow outside of the classroom. But keeping them engaged for several weeks can feel daunting. With some planning and a handful of reliable ideas, you can craft a summer full of diverse activities and unforgettable moments – no costly outings required. In this section, we share a range of practical, low-cost ideas to help you plan activities that spark imagination, support learning and build lasting family memories, whatever the weather!
Ideas to keep in your back pocket
While screens can be a convenient way to keep children entertained during the long summer break, the holidays also provide a great opportunity to inspire creativity, physical activity and independent play.
Download our activities pack below, which includes 15 outdoor activity ideas for sunny adventures to spark imagination and energy – from nature scavenger hunts to DIY garden sports days. For those inevitable rainy or home-based days, you can use the 15 indoor activity ideas, with ideas for crafting challenges, home science experiments and building indoor dens. These ideas are designed to suit a variety of ages and interests, and most require little or no specialist equipment.
Make fun, sustainable crafts inspired by nature with the National Trust. From wildflower seed bombs to recycled art projects, these hands-on activities are perfect for kids and families looking to enjoy eco-friendly fun this summer.
Image description: A father and daughter reading a book
Read your way through the holiday
Reading during the summer holidays does not need to feel like a chore, it can become one of the most enjoyable and rewarding parts of the break. By making reading a natural and fun part of daily life, you can help your child maintain and even build on the skills they have developed during the school year.
1. Create a cosy reading corner at home
This could be as easy as setting up a few cushions, a blanket and a small selection of books in a quiet space. A designated spot can make reading feel special and inviting, encouraging children to pick up a book independently.
2. Starting a family book club is another lovely way to get everyone involved
Choose a book to read together, either individually or aloud as a family, and set aside a time each week to talk about it. Asking open questions such as, “Which part made you laugh the most?” or, “Which character would you like to meet?” can help children think more deeply about what they have read and develop their communication skills.
3. For a more adventurous twist, you could organise a story picnic
Pack a few books along with your lunch and find a quiet spot in a park or garden to enjoy reading outdoors. Children could even bring their favourite soft toy as a ‘guest’ at the picnic.
4. Read through our list!
To help families choose books that suit different ages and interests, we have put together a reading list packed with suggestions – from picture books and early readers to exciting chapter books and non-fiction adventures. Find the reading list in our ultimate summer pack for parents, which you can download below. Libraries are also a fantastic free resource for discovering new books and taking part in community activities.
5. Join the Summer Reading Challenge run by The Reading Agency
It is completely free to join through your local library and offers children a chance to set reading goals, collect rewards and discover new favourite stories throughout the holidays.
6. Remember! Access to books does not have to be costly
Along with library memberships, you might like to explore book swaps with friends, visit charity shops for affordable finds or see if your local community offers any free book exchanges. Reading can become a highlight of the summer, sparking imagination, building confidence and helping children return to school ready to learn.
Be curious!
Curiosity is a big part of how kids learn and grow. One of the best ways to encourage this at home is through storytelling. It helps build their language skills, sparks their imagination and gets them thinking in creative ways. When you take time to share stories, ask questions and talk about ideas together, you’re helping your child develop important skills they’ll use in the classroom — like thinking things through, making connections and reflecting on what they’ve learned.
Encouraging children to be curious can be as simple as asking open-ended questions during everyday outings. Whether you are in the park, the garden or even the supermarket, questions like, “What do you think lives under that rock?” or, “Why do you think the sky changes colour in the evening?” prompt children to observe more carefully, think creatively and develop their reasoning skills. It’s not about having the ‘right’ answer, it’s about fostering a habit of exploration and wonder.
Storytelling is a rich opportunity for development. One fun idea is to create story dice – cubes with pictures or words on each side that children can roll to help inspire an imaginative tale. Another simple but meaningful tradition is to introduce story time after dinner, where each family member can take turns adding a few lines to a shared story. This collaborative, pressure-free environment helps children build confidence in speaking and structuring ideas and often results in lots of laughter and creativity.
You could also encourage children to record their own ‘story diaries’ over the summer, combining drawings and written descriptions of their daily adventures or holiday highlights. This not only supports literacy skills, but encourages reflection and memory building.
Importantly, these activities are flexible and can be adapted to suit different ages and abilities. They do not require special materials or preparation – just a willingness to slow down, listen and enjoy the wonderful, inventive ideas that children naturally bring. Building curiosity and storytelling into everyday life can help children see themselves as explorers and creators, both now and as they return to their learning in the new school year.
Here are some quick activity prompts to spark curiosity and storytelling
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Rainy day storytelling jar
Write simple story prompts (like ‘a dragon who loves gardening’ or ‘a lost treasure map’) on slips of paper and pop them into a jar. Let children pick one at random to kick off a story session. -
Invent a character challenge
Ask your child to invent a new character — what is their name, where do they live, what do they love to do? You could even draw the character together. -
Mystery object guessing game
Choose a random object from around the house, hide it in a bag and have children ask yes/no questions to figure out what it is. Then create a story about where it came from or who might use it. -
‘What if’ adventures
Turn everyday moments into imaginative adventures by asking ‘What if…?’ questions, like, “What if our car could fly?” or, “What if animals could talk?” -
Photo story
Take a few random photographs during a day out and ask your child to invent a story connecting all the pictures together.
Image description: Children running outside
Involve friends and family in a play date circle
The summer holidays can feel long when trying to balance work, home life and childcare. Setting up a play date circle with friends, neighbours or family members can help ease the load while creating more social opportunities for children.
How does it work?
A play date circle works by sharing the responsibility of hosting between several families. Each parent or caregiver takes a turn looking after a small group of children, giving the others a chance to have some much-needed time to themselves. A playdate circle is also a huge help for families who work and need some time to juggle work and playtime during the extended holidays.
Some families choose to organise play dates at home, while others plan group outings to parks, museums or community events. You can set it up as formally or informally as suits your group, from a regular weekly rota to a more flexible, ad hoc arrangement.
Setting clear expectations from the start will help make things run smoothly. Agree on practicalities such as timings, food arrangements and the number of children each host can comfortably manage. It can also be helpful to plan simple activities for each session, whether it’s a garden obstacle course, a picnic lunch or a shared craft project.
For children, play date circles offer more than just entertainment — they provide opportunities to build social skills, strengthen friendships and develop independence in a familiar and supportive environment. For parents, they offer valuable breathing space: a chance to catch up on work, run errands or simply enjoy some quiet time. With a little organisation, a play date circle can transform the summer holidays into a more relaxed and sociable experience for the whole family.
Tips for setting up a successful play date circle
1. Start with a small group
Three to four families is often a manageable number to begin with.
2. Set clear expectations
Agree on times, locations, food arrangements and any house rules in advance.
3. Keep activities simple
Choose easy, low-preparation activities that all the children can enjoy.
4. Communicate openly
Use a group chat or shared calendar to organise dates and keep everyone updated.
5. Be flexible
Life happens! Having a little flexibility will help keep the arrangement stress free for everyone.
6. Involve the children
Let them help plan the activities to build excitement and a sense of ownership.
We’ve put together Parentkind’s Ultimate Summer Playlist for kitchen dance parties, car singalongs and feel-good moments that bring the whole family together! Packed with upbeat tunes and nostalgic favourites, it’s the perfect soundtrack for sunny days, rainy afternoons and everything in between. So, turn up the volume, let loose and make some joyful summer memories – no planning required!
Go for free
Summer fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little research and planning, you can keep your family entertained without breaking the bank. The key is to make the most of free and low-cost resources available in your community and at home.
Start by scouring local listings, as many areas offer free or low-cost events throughout the summer. Local libraries often run story sessions, craft workshops or even summer reading challenges, all of which are free to join. Museums and galleries also host free entry days or family-friendly activities that are both educational and enjoyable. Don’t forget about community festivals and outdoor events, where you can enjoy music, food and entertainment without spending much.
Another great way to make the most of your area is to discover free outdoor activities. Many local councils and charities provide free walking or cycling trails, nature reserves and outdoor adventure programmes throughout the summer. These activities offer a chance to explore nature, stay active and enjoy the outdoors without needing to travel far or pay for admission.
If you’re looking to bring the adventure home and you have your own garden, there are plenty of ways to create exciting experiences. Camping in the garden is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving home – you can set up a tent, roast marshmallows, tell stories around a campfire (or a safe alternative!) and enjoy a night under the stars. You could also host a mini sports tournament with neighbourhood children, whether it’s a friendly football match, a water balloon fight or a fun obstacle course. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fantastic way to keep kids active while encouraging teamwork and friendly competition.
By tapping into these free or low-cost activities, you can ensure your family has a fun, fulfilling summer without financial stress. Plus, these simple, at-home adventures can often end up being the most memorable!
Image description: Three kids laughing and enjoying apples outdoors
Quick tips and activity ideas for budget-friendly summer fun
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DIY scavenger hunt
Create a list of items for children to find around the house or garden, such as a red leaf, a smooth stone or something that makes a sound. This is an easy and free way to get them exploring, and it works just as well outdoors as it does indoors. -
Home cinema night
Turn your living room into a movie theatre by making homemade tickets, setting up a cosy blanket fort and preparing simple snacks like popcorn. It’s a cheaper way to enjoy a cinema experience without the cost of the tickets. -
Garden nature walk
Even your garden or local park can become a nature reserve! Take a walk and see how many different types of plants, insects or birds you can spot. You could make it a challenge to find specific colours, shapes or species. -
Baking session
Use what you have in the kitchen to bake simple treats together. Children will love getting involved in the mixing, measuring and decorating, and baking is an affordable way to spend time together while enjoying a tasty result! -
Upcycled craft time
Gather up any old boxes, bottles, fabric scraps or buttons to create an upcycled craft session. From cardboard robots to decorated picture frames, the possibilities are endless when you use your imagination and things you already have at home. -
Family sports day
Create a mini sports tournament in your backyard with activities like sack races, three-legged races and a water balloon toss. These simple games provide lots of fun and can easily be adapted based on space and equipment available.
Financial support during summer
We know that summer holidays can bring extra costs, from food and activities to childcare. Thankfully, there are schemes in place to help ease the pressure. Across the UK, many local authorities and schools offer support such as free school meal vouchers, funded holiday clubs and low-cost family activities. These are designed to ensure every child can enjoy a healthy, active summer, without adding stress for parents.
What support is available where I live?
England
Many local councils offer Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programmes for children eligible for free school meals. These include free meals and fun activities during summer holidays. Some areas may also offer supermarket vouchers or food parcels. Check your local authority website or speak to your child’s school for details.
Scotland
Through the Scottish Government’s Holiday Food and Childcare Programme, many councils offer free holiday clubs with meals included, targeted at families needing extra support. You can also explore community centres and libraries for free or low-cost events and meal programmes.
Wales
The School Holiday Enrichment Programme (SHEP) provides free, healthy meals and enrichment activities in many schools and community centres over summer. Look out for local events supported by the Welsh Government and ask your school or local authority for information.
Northern Ireland
Some Extended Schools and local councils offer summer schemes that may include meals or snacks. Although there is no national holiday food scheme, support may be available locally. Contact your child’s school or council to find out what’s running in your area.
These restaurants and cafés offer a free or £1 kids meal during the summer holidays, often with the purchase of an adult meal.
ASDA Café
Kids can enjoy a meal for just £1, with no adult purchase required. You can also get a free Ella’s Baby Food pouch with any purchase.
Beefeater and Brewers Fayre
Two children under 16 eat free with every adult breakfast purchased.
Bella Italia
Kids eat free on Thursdays and for £1 between 4 to 6pm Sunday to Wednesday.
Bill’s
Up to two kids can eat free all day ehn one adult orders any main dish.
Dobbies Garden Centres
Kids eat for £1 with any adult breakfast or lunch purchased. Includes a free drink.
Morrisons Café
Children aged 16 and under eat free with an adult meal purchase of at least £4.50.
Purezza
Children under ten enjoy a free mini pizza with any adult meal.
Sainsbury’s Café
Kids receive a hot main meal or lunch bag for £1 with an adult meal purchase of at least £5.20.
Tesco Café
Children eat free with any adult purchase when dining in.
TGI Fridays
Kids eat free with an adult main meal available all day, every day if you are a new or existing Stripes reward member.
Yo! Sushi
Children eat free all day when dining with a full-paying adult (minimum £10 spend).
Here we list free activities and events available for children across the UK during the summer holidays, including creative workshops, outdoor adventures, and local community programmes.
Summer Reading Challenge
Encourages children to read books and collect rewards; free to join at local libraries or online.
Parkrun & Junior Parkrun
Parkrun is a free weekly running and walking event for all ages — Junior Parkrun is specifically for children aged four to 14.
Historic England sites
Access to various historic sites across England — some may require parking fees.
Local council events
Many councils offer free half-term activities or sports workshops.
Swimming sessions
Local leisure centres may offer free swimming sessions for children; check with your local facility.
Summer on the Square (London)
Free daily creative sessions and activities at Portman Square Garden in July.
Always check local terms, especially for council-led events or restaurant offers which can vary by location.
Keep young minds active this summer with HandsOn London’s free STEM booklets! Bursting with fun, hands-on activities, they’re a great way to explore science, technology, engineering and maths at home or outdoors. Perfect if you want to mix learning with summer fun!
STEM fun!
Image description: Children building a robot. Image by Freepik.
Parent wellbeing
The summer holidays aren’t just for children — they can also be a meaningful time for parents to pause, reflect and recharge. But let’s be honest: for many, this season brings added stress. Whether you’re solo parenting, co-parenting, juggling work with little flexibility or simply trying to stay afloat, it can feel like there’s little space left for yourself. And as social media and playground chatter add to the pressure to create the ‘perfect’ summer, comparison can quietly creep in, especially for families working long hours or struggling financially.
This section is here to remind you that your wellbeing matters too. It’s about giving yourself permission to find small, meaningful moments — whether it’s stepping outside for a breath of fresh air, connecting with someone who gets it, or carving out a quiet pause in the middle of a full day. We’ve included gentle, low-effort ideas and downloadable resources to help make caring for yourself feel natural and doable, no matter what your summer looks like.
Time with friends and reaching out
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Lower the bar
A ten-minute chat is enough. It doesn’t have to be a planned meet-up – sometimes a voice note or message saying ‘Thinking of you’ is all it takes. -
Stack it with something else
Catch up with a friend while you walk the dog, take the kids to the park together or chat while you tidy up. -
Say yes when it feels good
If someone suggests a cuppa or a walk and it works for you, say yes, even if the house is messy or your to-do list is long. -
Be the one to reach out
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. A quick “Want to catch up soon?” can be the first step. -
Keep a connection list
Jot down a few names of people you’d love to reconnect with over the holidays — it’s easy to forget in the day-to-day juggle. -
Join something new
Try a local class, group or online community that aligns with your interests — it can be a gentle way to meet people who are also open to connection.
Connection doesn’t have to be big or formal — it just needs to feel real and remind you that you’re not doing it all alone.
Quick and easy mindfulness exercises and movements
You don’t need a yoga mat or a silent house to practise mindfulness. In fact, many small moments during the day can be turned into calming rituals with just a bit of intention. Why not try some slow, deep breaths while waiting for the kettle to boil, or light stretches before bed or while the children are drawing? Even mindful handwashing (simply slowing down to fully notice the sensations of the water and soap and the movement of your hands, can help calm your mind and reset your mood in just a minute) or a short body scan can help reset your mood.
- What is a body scan? This is a mindfulness practice where you slowly bring your attention to different parts of your body, noticing sensations, tension or discomfort without trying to change anything. It helps you reconnect with your body, calm your mind and feel more grounded in the present moment.
Here are a few simple ways to bring mindfulness into your day without adding to your to-do list:
1. Anchor it to routine
Try one deep breath every time you switch the kettle on or open the fridge. Little habits add up!
2. Stretch without pressure
Do gentle neck rolls while you wait for the bath to run or lift your arms and slowly lower them with your breath while the kids are brushing teeth.
3. Use your senses
Notice how your hands feel under warm water, the scent of a candle or the texture of your clothes – these tiny details help bring you into the present
4. Take ‘mini check-ins’
Pause once or twice a day to ask: How am I feeling right now? No judgement, just noticing and checking in with yourself can help
5. Breathe with intention
Try box breathing: breathe in for four counts, hold for four, out for four, hold again for four. Just a minute or two can make a difference
Mindfulness isn’t about doing things perfectly, it’s about finding small ways to be more present, even in the middle of everyday family life.
Image description: A man and his daughter exercising
Going outdoors
Fresh air and a change of scene can be a tonic for the whole family, but especially for parents who need a moment away from screens, chores or the general noise of home life. A walk around the block, a coffee in the garden or a relaxed picnic in the park… Being outside helps to shift your perspective and boost your mood. You don’t need to travel far or plan a big outing – just step outside for a few minutes to help your body and mind reset.
Here are some easy ways to make the most of time outdoors:
Start small
Try stepping outside with your morning drink or take five minutes after lunch to breathe and look around. These little pauses add up!
Make it part of something else
Can the phone call, podcast or snack break happen outside instead of inside? No extra time needed — just a change of location.
Keep an outdoor bag by the door
Pop in sunscreen, water bottles, a blanket and a few bits for the kids. Being ready makes spontaneous outings easier.
Look for micro adventures
A trip to a new local park, spotting wildlife on a walk or eating lunch on the doorstep can all feel like a treat with the right mindset.
Let nature lead
Notice what the sky’s doing, how the grass smells or how the wind feels. Encouraging this awareness helps calm busy thoughts.
Even the simplest outdoor moments can bring a sense of calm and clarity, no need to wait for perfect weather or timing.
Hacks for family life
Summer can be fun, but also chaotic. You need practical tips to help ease the load, like embracing the magic of a ‘picky tea’ (a laid-back meal of snack-style bits and bobs) or letting go of the need to plan every moment. These tips and tricks aren’t about perfection, they’re about making summer feel a little more joyful, for you as well as your children.
Here are a few easy wins to take the pressure off:
Lower the bar (on purpose)
Not every day needs to be an adventure. It’s fine for some days to be quiet, slow or screen-filled.
Pick your ‘yes’ moments
Say yes to the messy painting, the puddle jumps or the late bedtime sometimes — and let yourself say no the rest of the time without guilt.
Create a go-to list
Keep a handwritten list of easy, no-prep activities on the fridge (e.g. water painting, building a fort, sock puppet shows etc.). When the ‘I’m bored’ hits, just point to the list.
Keep a snack station
Having a tray or shelf kids can help themselves from during the day (with pre-portioned healthy bits and treats) cuts down on constant requests.
Embrace the power of a reset
If the day’s going pear-shaped, stop and change the scene. Go outside, pop on music, or lie down and listen to a story.
It’s easy to feel like you need to fill every moment of your child’s day with entertainment, but you’re not their events and activities director, and you don’t need to be. In fact, a bit of boredom can be a good thing. When children aren’t constantly occupied, they’re more likely to tap into their imagination, develop problem-solving skills and discover what truly interests them. Letting them navigate a quiet afternoon without a packed schedule isn’t a parenting failure, it’s a gift.
Healthy habits for kids
Summertime is the perfect time to help children grow independently and develop healthy habits. Without the usual schoolday structure, there’s more room to encourage responsibility, support physical and emotional wellbeing and bring children into the everyday routines of family life. In this section, we explore ways to support your child’s health and wellbeing, alongside practical advice for summer meal planning.
Remember: Independence cultivates growth and builds skills
With a little extra time and less rushing around, summer is ideal for helping children learn everyday skills and build confidence. It doesn’t need to be formal, just inviting them to take part in regular tasks can help them feel capable and valued.
Here are some easy ways to support independence
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Let them lead small routines
Encourage children to take charge of their morning or bedtime routine, with gentle support if needed. A visual checklist can help younger ones stay on track. -
Involve them in daily tasks
From folding laundry to watering plants, these jobs help develop responsibility and life skills. -
Make decisions together
Give choices where possible: what to wear, which snack to pack or which book to read. It helps them feel heard and builds decision-making confidence. -
Teach by doing
Cook together, wash the car or pack a bag for the day out. Children often learn best by joining in rather than being told what to do. -
Praise effort over outcome
Acknowledge the attempt, even if the shoes are on the wrong feet or the folded towels are a bit wonky.
Promoting health and wellbeing
Try these ideas to support healthy routines:
Keep active play simple
Jumping, running, dancing or climbing – any movement counts. Set up obstacle courses, go for a scooter ride or just play a game of chase.
Encourage outdoor time every day
Whether it’s a short walk, playing with water or eating lunch in the garden, time outside supports mood, sleep and concentration.
Stick to a rough daily rhythm
While you don’t need a strict routine, having a flow to the day (like meals, play, quiet time and bedtime) helps children feel secure.
Talk about feelings
Use relaxed moments, like walks or bedtime, to check in emotionally. Simple prompts like, “What was your favourite part of the day?” can spark conversation.
Model healthy choices
Children are more likely to follow your lead, so let them see you drinking water, resting when needed and taking screen breaks too.
Feeding your family
Feeding a family over the summer can feel like a full-time job, but a little planning and some go-to ideas can make things easier. Involving children in choosing or helping with meals can also boost their interest in healthy eating.
How to keep summer meals simple and nutritious:
Design a weekly meal plan
It doesn’t need to be fancy, but knowing what’s for tea can reduce daily stress. Let children choose a meal to help them feel included.
Prep a snack shelf
Fill a drawer or basket with ready-to-go healthy snacks like fruit, oatcakes, yoghurt pots or boiled eggs, so kids can help themselves.
Batch cook when you can
Double up on pasta sauce, soups or muffins and freeze extras for busy days.
Try a theme night
Taco Tuesday, picnic tea or build-your-own wraps add fun without needing lots of extra ingredients.
Keep ingredients flexible
Plan meals around items that can be swapped out depending on what’s in the fridge, like pasta dishes, stir fries or traybakes.
Back to school prep
Image description: A boy and a girl with backpacks walk to school
There’s always plenty to think about as a new school year approaches, and it’s easy for the to-do list to pile up. To help avoid last-minute stress and rushing around, we’ve pulled together some simple ideas and resources. This section offers cost-saving tips, planners and a timeline to help you stay organised and make the back-to-school transition feel a little more manageable.
Cost-saving tips and planning advice
Back-to-school expenses can add up quickly, but there are plenty of ways to save and plan ahead to avoid the usual financial squeeze.
Here are some tips for saving on school supplies and making the process more manageable:
Start early to catch the sales
Many shops offer discounts on school uniforms, stationery and other essentials before the end of summer. Keep an eye on back-to-school sales in late July and August.
Check for hand-me-downs or second-hand uniforms
Before buying new uniforms or school shoes, check if any older siblings’ items are still in good condition, or if friends or neighbours have any spare uniforms. Also look at second-hand options for uniforms, which can often be found in great condition. Some schools also run uniform exchange programmes or sales. Plan purchases by priority. Start by listing the most essential items like uniforms, shoes and bags. Then slowly build up the rest of the supplies over a few weeks. By spreading out purchases and being strategic about what and when you buy, you can reduce the stress on your budget.
Shop online for better deals
Online shopping often offers discounts and the ability to compare prices across retailers. Look for sites that offer free delivery or pick-up options.
Buy in bulk
For stationery, art supplies or packed lunch items, buying in bulk can save money in the long run, especially on non-perishable items.
Timeline of activities
Staying organised over the summer is key to avoiding the back-to-school rush. Here’s a timeline with key tasks to keep in mind to ensure everything is ready for the first day back.
Use this timeline to stay ahead of the game:
- August (two to three weeks before school starts)
- Check the school’s term dates and any important notices or updates.
- Start shopping for uniforms, shoes and supplies — taking advantage of sales and discounts.
- Book any appointments (like haircuts or eye tests) needed before the school year starts.
- End of August
- Finalise the purchase of any remaining items (like lunchboxes, backpacks or sports kit).
- Label all clothing, shoes, bags and equipment with your child’s name.
- Arrange playdates or social activities to help your child adjust to the idea of school returning.
- First week of September
- Pack and prepare school bags the night before, so everything is ready for the first day.
- Settle into a bedtime routine a few days before school starts to avoid a rushed morning.
By breaking down tasks and planning ahead, you can avoid the overwhelm of trying to do everything in one go.
How to stay on top of school supplies
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Create a checklist
Before buying any supplies, check with your child’s school for a list of required items — this can help avoid overbuying or getting items that aren’t needed. -
Use what you have
Go through last year’s supplies and see if you can reuse items such as binders, pens, pencils or calculators. Don’t buy duplicates unless necessary. -
Shop with a purpose
Take the checklist with you (or keep it online) when shopping for school supplies. Only purchase items from the list to stay within budget. -
Get organised with storage
Designate a space at home to store school supplies. It can be a drawer, box or shelf where everything is easy to access throughout the year.
Preparing your child emotionally
Going back to school can be an emotional time for children, especially if they’re starting a new year or school. It’s important to support them through this transition, so they feel confident and excited.
Here’s how to do it!
Talk about the new school year
Discuss any changes they might face, like new teachers, classmates or routines. Make the conversation positive and reassuring.
Set up a back-to-school countdown
Whether it’s a calendar or a fun activity, a countdown can build excitement and help children mentally prepare for the first day back. But only go for it if it feels doable – ideas like this are here to support you, not add pressure or take the joy out of your summer.
Practice the school routine
A few days before school starts, try adjusting their bedtime or school morning routine, so the transition doesn’t feel as abrupt.
Validate their feelings
It’s normal for children to feel nervous or anxious. Acknowledge their feelings and offer comfort while also focusing on the exciting parts of returning to school.
If you have a child who is starting reception in September, check out our Be School Ready guide for more tips on building independence over the summer.
Re-establishing routines
Image description: Two girls eating ice cream in school uniform
Summer often leads to more relaxed routines, so getting back into a school schedule can feel like a big shift. Help your child, and yourself, ease back into the rhythm of school life with these tips:
Start early with bedtime adjustments
Gradually move your child’s bedtime earlier by ten to 15 minutes each night a week or two before school starts. This will help them adjust to early mornings.
Set a morning routine
Create a consistent morning routine that includes time for breakfast, dressing and any necessary prep work. Keep it simple and predictable to avoid chaos.
Prepare the night before
Lay out school uniforms, pack lunch boxes and check school bags the night before, so the morning doesn’t feel rushed.
Incorporate quiet time
Whether it’s reading, journaling or mindfulness exercises, incorporate a small amount of quiet time each day to help your child reset after a busy school day.
Involve children in the process
Get your child involved in preparing for school by having them help with meal prep, packing their bag or even setting the table for breakfast. This builds their independence and prepares them mentally for the routine.
Resources
To make summer even easier, we’ve bundled all our ready-to-use resources into one handy download. Whether you’re looking for quick activities on a rainy afternoon or want to bring a little structure to the long weeks ahead, everything you need is in one place.
From printable games to visual planners, each resource has been designed with busy families in mind — low-prep, engaging and easy to pick up whenever you need a moment of calm, creativity or routine.
Inspiration station
If you’re ever stuck for ideas – or just need a bit of a lift – this section is for you. We’ve pulled together a curated list of podcasts, YouTube channels and websites full of helpful, fun and encouraging content for parents.
Whether you’re after practical parenting hacks, creative ways to spend time outdoors or something to listen to while folding the laundry, there’s something here to suit your mood and your schedule. Each recommendation has been chosen with busy parents in mind — offering both helpful tips and a gentle reminder that you’re not alone in navigating the ups and downs of summer.
Podcasts
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A podcast that explores the ups and downs of parenting through a humorous lens. With new episodes airing twice a week, the hosts share their own stories and welcome celebrity guests to discuss the funny, frustrating, and relatable moments of family life. It offers a light-hearted take on the challenges of parenthood.
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Offers practical and compassionate parenting advice that resonates with real-life family dynamics. Her podcast covers a wide range of topics — from screen time to shyness — providing realistic strategies that many parents find useful and effective.
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Hosted by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach and Amanda Doyle, this podcast explores themes around personal growth, relationships and emotional wellbeing. While not exclusively focused on parenting, many episodes touch on family life and offer insights into communication, neurodiversity, playfulness and healthy conflict. The conversations encourage reflection and intentional living, which can positively influence how listeners approach parenting and everyday interactions.
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Combines storytelling, sound design and unique narratives to transport children into exciting worlds. Perfect for those who crave adventure, this podcast offers engaging and creative journeys through diverse themes and settings.
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A captivating podcast that explores big ideas in science, philosophy and human experience through creative storytelling. Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, each episode sparks curiosity and wonder. Plus, there’s a kid-friendly version of the show, perfect for young explorers!
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Taps into that wonder that is the curiosity of kids! Hosted by Molly Oldfield, writer of the Guardian’s kids’ quiz and the original QI elf, this award-winning podcast answers children’s questions about the world. Featuring experts like Heston Blumenthal and Richard Branson, each episode sparks fascinating facts and fun insights.
YouTube channels
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Offers calming bedtime stories for kids. With gentle narration and soothing music, each story helps little ones unwind and drift off to sleep peacefully.
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A fun channel filled with creative craft ideas for kids and families. From simple DIY projects to seasonal crafts, host Maggy guides young artists through easy, step-by-step tutorials.
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Hoda shares simple recipes with plenty of shortcuts and tips for substituting ingredients, making mealtime stress free. Her meals are flavourful and quick, perfect for parents juggling busy schedules and picky eaters.
Web resources
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Offers trusted resources to support parents throughout their child’s school journey, including blogs, webinars, exam guides and school readiness tips. With downloadable tools and practical advice, it helps families stay informed, involved and confident in supporting their child’s education.
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Offers insights on happiness, habits and personal growth. Through her books, blog and podcast, Rubin provides practical advice to help individuals create lasting habits and improve their wellbeing. It’s a resource for anyone seeking to enhance their life with actionable tips and inspiration.
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Offers simple, time-saving meal ideas designed to make family cooking easier for busy parents. With easy-to-follow recipes, meal planning tips and strategies for quick, healthy meals, the site helps families save time without sacrificing nutrition or taste. It’s the perfect resource for parents looking to simplify mealtime while ensuring their kids enjoy wholesome, delicious food.
