With the summer holidays on the horizon, millions of parents will be beginning their annual task of figuring out just what to do with their loved ones during their weeks away from school.
So this month in our Switch2Zero Top Tips series, we thought we’d offer up a few ideas to help you fill their time in ways that are both fun, and showcase the value of sustainability to us all.
Some of the below cost a bit, but some are entirely free - meaning you can entertain, and do good, without breaking the bank.
Let’s start with two great freebies:
App Based Adventures
Digital technologies have revolutionised our lives - and there are some great free apps on the market that can turn a countryside walk into a mini-adventure. Try some of the smartphone based bird identification apps, like Merlin for example, and see how many species of bird you can locate on a ramble. You’ll be surprised how many you can hear and how it gamifies a wander in the woods. Equally fun are fungi identification apps - with kids loving not just the hunt, but the names too - stinkhorns, Hotlips Disco, Cramp Balls and Goblins shield to name just a few.
Engage in Wildlife Surveys
Encourage your children to become citizen scientists by participating in wildlife surveys. These activities are not only educational but also contribute valuable data to conservation efforts. Local wildlife trusts often run events where families can help count butterflies, birds, or other local species. Equip your children with notebooks and cameras, and spend a day exploring nature reserves, parks, or even your own garden to document your findings. It’s a fantastic way to learn about biodiversity and the importance of each species in our ecosystem. Check out the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch and the Butterfly Conservation’s Big Butterfly Count for more information.
Plant Trees and Contribute to Reforestation
Teach your children the importance of trees and their role in combating climate change by taking part in tree-planting activities. Many organisations run tree-planting events, or you can plan your own family project. Choose native species to support local wildlife, and make it a day out by visiting a nearby forest or woodland. Not only will you be enhancing the environment, but your children will also develop a deeper connection to nature. The Woodland Trust offers resources and events for tree planting.
Organise a Litter Pick-Up Adventure
Turn a simple walk into a fun and rewarding activity by organising a litter pick-up. Equip your family with gloves, bags, and litter pickers, and set off to clean up your local beach, park, or woodland. This hands-on activity teaches children the importance of keeping our natural spaces clean and the impact of litter on wildlife. Make it even more exciting by setting challenges, such as who can collect the most litter or find the strangest item. You can find tips and organise events through Keep Britain Tidy.
Visit Eco-Friendly Attractions
Plan visits to eco-friendly attractions that educate and inspire about sustainability and the natural world. Many museums, zoos, and botanical gardens offer interactive exhibits and programmes designed for children. Look for places that focus on conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. These visits can spark curiosity and provide valuable lessons about how to protect our planet. The Eden Project and Kew Gardens are excellent places to start.
Create a Nature Art Project
Combine creativity with nature appreciation by starting a nature art project. Collect natural materials like leaves, sticks, stones, and flowers during your outdoor adventures. Use these materials to create artworks, such as collages, sculptures, or even natural dyes. This activity not only stimulates creativity but also encourages children to observe and appreciate the beauty of nature. For inspiration, visit Nature Detectives by the Woodland Trust.
Participate in Local Environmental Workshops
Check out local environmental organisations and community centres for workshops and events tailored for children and families. Workshops on topics like composting, organic gardening, or renewable energy can provide hands-on learning experiences. These events often include fun activities like making bird feeders, building bug hotels, or crafting with recycled materials. Organisations like Groundwork and The Wildlife Trusts often have great workshops and events.
Explore Nature Trails and Learn Together
Spend a day exploring local nature trails and learning about the flora and fauna you encounter. Bring along a field guide or use a plant identification app to discover more about the plants and animals you see. This is a great way to combine exercise with education, and it fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Websites like Walks in Nature can help you find local trails.
Support Local Farms and Markets
Visit local farms and markets to teach children about sustainable agriculture and the importance of supporting local producers. Many farms offer tours and hands-on activities like fruit picking or feeding animals. This can be a fun and educational experience that shows children where their food comes from and why sustainable farming practices matter. Websites like Pick Your Own Farms can help you find local farms to visit.
This June, let’s make the summer holidays a time of exploration, learning, and environmental stewardship. By engaging in these sustainable activities, you’ll create lasting memories with your children while fostering a love for nature and a commitment to protecting our planet.
