It's that time again! The summer holidays are finally here in the UK and many parents and kids around the country are looking for ways to stay entertained. Many activities for kids can be damaging for the environment - think all the plastic toys, long drives to far-off attractions etc. That's why we wanted to share some of our favourite half term activities that are not only kind to the environment, they are also free! Here's some of our favourite ways to keep the kids entertained whilst being kind to the planet...
Image via Family Focus Blog
Recycled crafts
One of the greatest sustainability activities for kids is crafts using recycled materials. From something as simple as using recycled cardboard to doodle on to making musical instruments out of jar lids, there is a craft for every item in your recycling bin. There's plenty of inspiration online or you can just let your imaginations run wild! We particularly love these egg carton flowers by Monique Valeris or these recycled tin can planters by Family Focus Blog.
Image by @flints_newgategap on Instagram
Go on a scavenger hunt
Great for kids of all ages, scavenger or treasure hunts are an easy activity to keep them entertained. Make a list of things for your kids to keep an eye out for whilst you go for a walk or visit your favourite park. You can create categories like colours or ask them to find specific things like leaves. Children can even record the things they find by drawing them, taking rubbings or even collecting the objects themselves. You could even reward them with biodegradable stickers! Our Bolga Baskets are ideal for collecting your treasures.
Plant your own food
Growing your own food in your garden or even on your windowsill is a great activity for kids! Planting vegetables, fruits and herbs is not only a great way to teach your children where food comes from, but it also encourages them to eat a more varied diet. It is also a great way to save money and reduce your own carbon footprint. If you're looking for more tips on getting the kids gardening, you can read our previous blog post here.
Make a bug hotel
Did you know, an average garden accommodates more than 2,000 different species of insect! For kids that love creepy crawlies, making a bug hotel is a great activity as they can spot all the different types of bugs and record them. You can use old wood, recycled plastic tubs, old egg cartons, stones and much more to create your bug hotel. The Wildlife Trusts have a great guide for creating your own bug hotel here.
Go Wild Swimming
Wild swimming is increasingly popular, and it's easy to see why! No chlorine or chemicals in the water, no cost, no busy changing rooms. And it's a great way to cool off in the summer heat! The UK has an abundance of rivers, lakes, waterfalls, streams and seas, the majority of which are safe to swim in. Even in London there’s the Serpentine Lido in Hyde Park and the Hampstead Swimming Ponds (although there is a small fee for using these.) Wild Swimming is an excellent resource if you're new to the world of wild swimming. Why not take a picnic for after your dip?
Make Seed Bombs
A great way to get hands-on and creative with nature! Making your own wildflower seed bombs is not only a fun craft, it's also an exciting way to spread a bit of greenery where it's most needed. Remember to be responsible when sowing your seed bombs and only use wildflower seeds that are native to your local area so as not to disrupt the biodiversity of the area. The National Trust has a great recipe for making your own seed bombs here.
Whatever you get up to, we hope you have lots of fun!