Do the summer holidays leave you exhilarated or exhausted?
You’re not alone! Whether you’re waving goodbye to preschoolers or welcoming new faces, keeping everyone entertained throughout the long break can feel overwhelming. Juggling toddlers, tweens, and your own family time adds another layer of complexity.
But with a little planning, you can make this summer a blast!
This post provides a summer toolkit of tips and resources to help you navigate the busy season and keep your childcare setting thriving.
📝Planning Makes Perfect
✔️Beat boredom! Utilise our FREE downloadable Summer Bucket List and Activity Planning Pack to brainstorm fun outings and activity ideas!
✔️Plan local adventures! Explore free community events, parks, or beaches. Create a scavenger hunt for your next outing with our NEW Summer Scavenger Hunt! This FREE printable is packed with classic summer finds. Plus, create your own hunt for endless fun!
✔️Structure and Fun? Yes Please! Keep everyone on the same page with a clear schedule. Use our downloadable Visual Timetable and let the children contribute their ideas! This helps young children adjust to routine changes.
✔️Don’t forget chill time! Our relentless energy isn’t endless! Schedule downtime for relaxation. Let the kids unwind in a cosy story tent built with blankets and pillows, or have a quiet water play session. Sometimes, the best days are the calmest!
⚠️Safety First, Always!
Summer means more outdoor fun, but safety is paramount.
⚠️Risk Assessments are Key! Ensure your equipment is in top shape. Download our Risk Assessments Pack to identify and address potential hazards. (Think paddling pools, sand pits, outings and outdoor play.)
⚠️Consider the Benefits as well as the Risks! Our Risk / Benefit Posters remind us of why Risky Play is beneficial for children’s development and how associated risks can be managed.
⚠️Out and About? Be Prepared! Plan for managing different age groups during outings. Consider transport safety, how you will keep children comfortable in hot weather and have a plan for emergencies. Update all emergency contact details using our downloadable Child Information/Emergency Contact Cards
⚠️Communication is Key! Remind parents of your safety policies with our downloadable Policies & Procedures Pack and use our handy Parent Notes and Reminders to pass on important information. (Think Sun Protection Requirements, Outing Plans and Holiday Arrangements.)
✨Boost Your Summer Fun Toolbox
Minding Kids has a treasure trove of resources to make your summer planning a breeze!
🎨Inspire Creativity: Engage all ages with downloadable resources like Animal Action & Alphabet Cards, BIG Kids Activity File, and themed activity packs like In The Jungle or Under the Sea.
🖐🏽Messy Play Fun: Spark curiosity and learning through sensory experiences with our Messy Play Recipe Book
🌍Explore the World Around You: Encourage wonder with our Five Senses Activity Pack and Minibeasts Activity Pack
🏃🏽♂️Don’t Forget Outdoor Play: Get active with our FREE Outdoor Play Activity Ideas Sheet
With these tips and resources, you’re ready to create a summer of unforgettable experiences for both you and the children in your care!
Have a blast this Summer and Have FUN Minding Kids!
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