As the leaves start to change and the autumn weather sets in, days snuggled up at home on the sofa become more and more appealing. Although for many parents across the country, the onset of October brings with it one thing to start thinking about – half term.
Keeping the little ones entertained when it’s cold outside can feel like a challenge. You don’t have the warm summer weather to allow you the chance to enjoy some fantastic days out, but there’s still loads of activities you can do from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re planning an afternoon of arts and crafts or a day spent watching films under a cosy blanket, half term can be a great opportunity to relax and spend time together as a family in the warmth of your own house. To help you make the most of your October break with the kids, we’ve put together a list of fun things you can do to have an enjoyable half term holiday.
Bake some show stoppers
With half term falling right in the middle of the nation’s favourite series, The Great British Bake Off, why not gather the little ones up for an afternoon in the kitchen? They can bake treats from the show or create their own taste sensations with a little parental guidance. Once the tasty delights are baked you can decorate them with some colourful icing, then spend the rest of the day kicking back on the sofa with their favourite film and those tasty treats. You never know, you might just have a star baker of the future cooking up some goodies for the whole family to enjoy.
Awesome sleepover parties
Get excitement soaring this October half term by letting your kid’s have an action-packed sleepover with their friends. From rearranging the furniture to decorating your living room, you can create the perfect party place in your home. If your kids are after a movie marathon with their mates, make sure you have the right sofa for the job, or if they’re planning some arts and crafts, stock up on all the essentials.
You can even have your little ones crafting their own invitations a few days before to deliver to their guests. It’s a great way to get their creativity flowing and set the party mood for the day.
Treasure hunt
For a day of adventure, send your kid’s off on a treasure hunt. Whether they’re with friends or just on their own, you can create a day filled with exploration and adventure. Plant clues around your home and garden for them to find and reward the winner with a prize. You could even create a map for them to follow, detailing points around the home where they need to look for the next step in the hunt. Try adding a theme with costumes and accessories to add that extra touch of excitement.
Revamp your living room
Get their imagination going by giving them chance to be a master of interior design. Let them decide how they want to arrange your living space for the holidays – whether they want to pull the sofa in closer and make a den to watch their shows, build a sofa fort with loads of blankets and cushions, or move everything back so there’s more room to show off their talents. There’s loads of possibilities when it comes to letting them redesign your living room, and you never know, you might even prefer it their way.
Keeping your children entertained this October half term doesn’t need to be difficult. With a little careful planning you can create a week filled with fun and laughter that has your kids wishing it was half term all the time.
