While kids are always looking forward to half term, parents might be a little more reserved about it right now. Because, whereas in the summer and at Christmas or Easter there’s enough time free for the kids to acclimatise to the idea of not being in school, half term is always a quickfire burst of energy. Finding things to do during this half-term week and keep the kids occupied is never easy but given the current cost-of-living crisis, we’re now going to be worrying about keeping costs down too.

Thankfully, however, there are plenty of activities that you can organise to keep everyone happy and entertained that might cost next to nothing.

Outdoor fun

The great outdoors is always calling and it costs nothing to enjoy many of the UK’s greatest walks. Yes, there are some National Trust properties that might have an entrance fee or a car parking fee but there are hundreds of locations that don’t charge a penny. Depending on where you live, you might even be within walking distance of a great hike or nature trail and you could even get the bikes out if your kids are old enough too.

Science experiments

Keeping their minds active and inquisitive when they’re out of school will give them a deeper understanding and appreciation of topics that their teachers will definitely applaud. You can also show them how fun education can be. For example, there are hundreds of little science experiments you can do at home with common household items. With just an empty plastic drinks bottle, a knife, pencil, paper, dirty water and a coffee filter (or equivalent), for example, you can make your own water filter and show them how water filtration works.

A trip to the museum

Sticking with the educational theme, many museums across the country offer free entry for children under a certain age. Particularly for those living near London, there are dozens of museums such as the world-famous Natural History Museum that are completely free to enter. These museums have so much to see and do that you could spend multiple days there. However, we’d always recommend getting there early as there is likely to be a sizable queue.

Cooking lessons

Unfortunately, home economics is not a subject given as much funding in schools these days so kids might not really understand the basics of cooking. You could show them, however, that cooking can be fun and a way to ensure they’re getting the right nutrients without relying on pre-cooked ready meals. It’s a great way to prepare them for living away from home in later years and could spark a lifelong passion. Who knows, they might even decide they want to go into cooking professionally!

Visit a local farm

Finally, many local farms are run by charities and are free for families to visit. They might ask for a small donation, but it will be more than worth it to introduce your kids to some adorable farm animals. Keep an eye on your local papers and social media and you might be amazed at what you’ll find in your area!