Making The Most of Summer

Many schools are breaking up for the summer holidays this week, and while most students are looking forward to a break – that will not be the case for everyone. Some parents too might be excited to spend more time with their children, whereas others might be struggling for childcare and can feel the pressure to make the six-weeks-holidays as fun as possible.

In this blog, we will discuss a few activity ideas for the summer holidays, tips for making it as smooth as possible and how Cardiff & Vale Tutors can be of assistance this summer.

Outdoor Adventures

One of the best ways to keep kids engaged and active during the summer holidays is to spend time outdoors. Cardiff & Vale boasts numerous parks, beaches and nature reserves that are perfect for family outings. From picnics in Bute Park to exploring the stunning coastlines surrounding, there are plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun – when it does eventually show itself – and enjoy nature.

It’s important to remember, however, that living in Wales does mean the weather isn’t always great. Therefore, a good raincoat and wellies are the answer, and even if the weather isn’t amazing, it’s still vital to get out into nature.

Creative Projects at Home

For days when staying home feels right, consider some creative projects that can be both fun and educational. You don’t need to be a talented artist to have some creative fun with your children, and they can benefit greatly from it. Giving them paper, paints, glue, recycled material, etc…, and encouraging children to have a go and create something new and unique can be great fun and can support independence.

The same goes for cooking or baking. If you as the parent or carer are too tired, show your children how to carry out small household tasks. For example, how to peel a potato or an onion if that is more age appropriate as it doesn’t require a knife or peeler. By allowing your children to do small tasks like this, you can get a bit of help and they will learn some necessary skills too.

Set Realistic Expectations 

Create a loose schedule which includes a mix of planned activities and free time without anything to allow for relaxation and a slower pace because some downtime is essential for both kids and parents to recharge. Embrace the slower days and allow for spontaneous fun.

Remember that most local areas have libraries or hubs which will be putting on free events throughout the summer, and of course books are always free to borrow! Not only would some reading over summer support your child’s overall literacy, but also it would be a great boredom killer and wellbeing booster!

How Cardiff & Vale Can Assist? 

Cardiff & Vale offers tuition throughout the summer holidays in a variety of subjects. For example, if your child would like to begin learning a new modern language, they could do a few lessons over the summer, or if your child is going to begin their GCSEs in September, then perhaps some revision of topics they aren’t confident in might be fruitful. Whatever the reason for tuition during summer, it can be a way to keep busy and learn something new!

Key Words: Summer, School Holidays,Transition, move to University, activities, academic support.

Written by Aleksandra Dul, our GCSE & A level English Tutor