Stuck for things to do with the little ones (and not so little ones!) this half term? Read on!

Half Term has the potential to be a huge spend-fest. Lunches out, ice-creams, sweets, entry to different places, travel costs. Phew!! Well, it doesn’t have to be like that. Here are some of my ideas for a thriftier week off.

Library visit– I adore books and what better place to visit for an afternoon than the library. Spend some time reading together, picking out new books and even taking part in activities. My local libraries have got events on during half term. Why not check out yours?

Going to the woods or the local park– what better combination than outdoors and nature! You could become nature detectives. Checking out bugs, wildlife, different plants and the mud! There are tonnes of different ideas to do with your little ones here at the Woodland Trust website. Some of these activities can be done at home- colouring, or in your own garden.

Cinema trip– normally a trip to the cinema can cost a small fortune but many cinemas offer a ‘Movies for Juniors’ or a reduced rate half-term viewing. These can cost £1.50-£2.00 depending on where you are. Local schools in my area even book out seats for a reduced rate at my local cinema. Definitely check it out!

PJs and film day– who doesn’t love a day in their PJs! Set yourself up with duvets and cuddly toys, your favourite films, some home-popped popcorn and you’re away.

Arts and crafts– there’s so much you can do with some sellotape and empty cardboard boxes. The world is your oyster! Build that super duper transforming car, a new house for dollies, a puppet show. What about some spare fabric, a needle and thread? You could make up some clothes for teddies and dolls, a cushion cover. Got paints, pencils, crayons and paper? Why not create that next masterpiece! There are also tonnes of printable colouring pages online. I quite like the range of images on the Activity Village site. There is also a huge range of craft activities on that site too, so do have a look around. (No, I’m not affiliated, I just like it!)

Cooking– cooking is a fantastic life skill, not to mention fun and tasty! Why not spend some time baking or cooking something. What about krispy cakes, fairy cakes, cookies. There are lots of ideas here on the Good Food website.

And when you’re out and about, think about taking along your own packed lunches to cut the costs.

I hope some of these ideas have inspired you! I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to this week or even next week!