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Summer is here—and with it comes sunshine (hopefully!), longer days, and potentially a new mix of children as older ones join for holiday care. This season offers a wonderful chance to slow the pace, try new things, and enjoy the freedom of more relaxed routines.

We’ve put together some easy, low-prep ideas that work well across a wide age range—encouraging curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Back Garden Adventures

You don’t need to go far to create a world of wonder!

• Obstacle trails Set up garden challenges using what you have—cushions, crates, hoops. The children can help design the course!
• Mud kitchens or nature soup Ideal for mixed ages. Add herbs, water, petals, and natural materials for hours of sensory fun.
• Bug hotels & creature spotting Great for teamwork and gently encourages conversations about nature, habitats, and caring for living things.

Creative Play for Rain or Shine

Set up open-ended art invitations that allow children to join in at their own level.

• Loose parts collages Offer paper, glue, bottle tops, leaves, buttons—see what happens!
• Self-portraits or summer memories A lovely reflective activity for all ages.
• T-shirt or bag decorating Older children can explore design techniques; little ones can freely paint or stamp.

Mini Day Camps

Create themed days or weeks to bring a little magic to your setting.

• Camping day Pitch a tent indoors or out, toast pretend marshmallows, sing songs, and go on a treasure trail.
• Sports & games day Set up mini competitions or team challenges—think sponge toss, egg-and-spoon, or timed races.
• Inventors' day Offer junk modelling materials and let children build freely—give light prompts for older children (e.g., “Can you build a moving vehicle?”).

Loose Parts Play

Keep a big box of “bits and bobs” (fabric scraps, cardboard tubes, string, pegs) on hand. Children of all ages love to build, create, and role play using open-ended materials. Let their imagination lead the way—you’ll be surprised what they come up with!

Calm Moments Matter Too

Summer doesn’t need to be all go-go-go.

• Create a cosy reading nook with blankets, cushions, and books for all ages.
• Mindful colouring or guided relaxation Older children might enjoy some calm drawing prompts, while little ones can explore with chunky crayons.
• Shared snack prep Invite children to help make fruit salads, mini wraps or ice lollies—brilliant for confidence and cooperation.

Naturally Learning

Even when you're not planning specific learning goals, children are developing skills all the time.

• Social skills grow through shared games and problem solving.
• Physical development gets a boost from outdoor and hands-on play.
• Language bubbles up naturally through imaginative play, role play, and shared conversations.

Whatever your summer looks like—busy, breezy, or a bit of both—we hope it’s full of laughter, connection, and little moments of joy. Thank you for all you do to make the holidays memorable for every child in your care.