12 Screen-Free Hacks for a Fun Half-Term Break in London
February gloom and drizzle are set to continue over the half-term break, posing a challenge for parents with children off school. To help families survive the week and keep kids entertained, we have compiled the best ways to engage them on rainy days, encourage outdoor activities, and ensure smooth long journeys.
For Rainy Days
If leaving the house seems daunting, there are numerous ways to keep children busy without resorting to screens. Parenting expert Sally J Hall recommends getting creative with a cheap scrapbook to record memories. "Stick in souvenirs like bus tickets, sweet packets, museum leaflets, pressed flowers, or postcards to remind us of places visited," she writes. Alternatively, hands-on baking can build food preparation skills and yield delicious treats. A baking set suitable for ages 5+ includes tools for making and decorating cupcakes and biscuits.
For less messy options, board and card games offer hours of entertainment with minimal cleanup. Hall suggests Blokus for ages 7+, where players use cunning to place colored blocks on the board and block opponents. Lego Monkey Palace for ages 10+ enhances building and creativity skills, while Uno Show 'em No Mercy for ages 7+ provides a more intense version of the classic game, though it may lead to some sulking. To keep kids active indoors, consider a set that converts a dining table into a ping-pong table, unleashing their inner Marty Supreme.
For Getting Outside
When the weather permits, encourage children to explore nature with a trail journal. Search for plants and animals during walks and record findings for an educational, screen-free activity. If rain persists, Paddy Maddison recommends a kids puddle suit to seize the day regardless of conditions. For parents who enjoy running or cycling, a two-in-one bike trailer and stroller allows you to maintain fitness routines while involving the kids.
For Long Journeys
If traveling during the break, parent-of-two Rebecca Goodman's guide to surviving long family journeys can be a lifesaver. Tips include using a reusable sticker pad to keep hands busy and a mini Yoto player for audiobook entertainment. On long train journeys with a table, a lively game of Dobble for ages 6+ is sure to engage everyone.
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Editor's Pick
With the UK experiencing relentless rain, a quality waterproof jacket and sturdy umbrella can make managing the weather less damp. Fashion tips for looking good in wet weather are also available, along with a guide for those preferring to hibernate indoors.
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