Catering for different age groups when school is out is a bit of a balancing act.
When the kids have a break from school it can be an opportunity to breathe and re-group. Having a break from the school run and making lunches is a novelty in itself. As nice as it is to "chill out" at home I think it's safe to say that a lot of parents (including me) will want to tear their hair out when cabin fever starts to kick in. Without plans or outdoor time, the day can feel very long. School tends to help in that department because it gives the day some structure.
Of course, every household is different. In many homes, both parents work and as a result, midterm can be quite stressful logistically. It is easy to see why family holidays are ideal at this time of year. However, due to demand, they are extremely expensive at this peak time which means that they are not feasible for a lot of people as a result.
Catering for different age groups when school is out is a bit of a balancing act. Like most elements of parenting, it involves a carefully curated plan which by default can actually feel quite stressful at a time where things are supposed to be relaxing.
Here are some ideas to help you cater for all ages over the midterm
Plan A Family Play Date
Until now play-dates may have involved catering for just one of your children but why not arrange a family play date? Arrange a park day with a family that also has a couple of different age groups. The dynamic will shift and you can all entertain each other.
Visit The Cinema
Finding a movie that works for all age groups might seem impossible but with the right snacks (isn't that why we all enjoy the cinema) and a middle-of-the-road Disney movie or comedy everyone should be pretty pleased.
Have An Art Competition
Colouring and painting are pretty universal. The older ones will take it more seriously and the younger ones will tire quickly but it's a family activity that doesn't involve screens. Advertise a prize and at the end of the week and you can have an awards ceremony after dinner. Think of it as a little family art exhibition.
Ready, Steady, Cook
As a family decide on the weekly menu so that everyone's favourite meal is in there somewhere. The catch is that everyone has to help out. You can start the dinner prep early in the day to fill an hour or two. Older kids will love weighing and measuring while younger kids can get involved in the mixing and stirring. Having the dinner ready earlier in the day leaves more time to relax in the evenings when everyone is usually at peak levels of cranky.
Visit A Farm
A day at the farm is a great family activity. Parents will be able to relax a little because toddlers have a safe place to roam free, while older kids will enjoy learning about the different animals and farm mechanics. It's a couple of hours away from the house and with the promise of an ice-cream or hot chocolate before or after, you'll be on to a winner.
