Now the sun is finally (!) putting in an appearance, it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.
Remember to take sun hats, sun cream, cool drinks (it’s a good idea to pack plenty of water, especially when travelling by car) and a change of clothes for your little one.
Here are five fun, purse-friendly activities to try with your little one:
1. A day at the sea-side: Why not pack up your bucket and spade and head to the sea-side? There’s plenty to do, from hunting for sea shells to poking around in rock pools. West-Wittering near Chichester is a two-hour drive away and has a large sandy beach, grassy picnic area and beach café.
2. Park life: There are some lovely parks near Windsor, including Windsor Great Park, just south of the town. Slightly further afield but still only a relatively short car journey away are Black Park – a country park near Wexham with a lake, café and woodland play area – and Cassiobury Park in Watford. Cassiobury Park has two large playgrounds, a miniature railway, plus acres of space for picnics and ball games. Its paddling pool area is due to re-open in Easter 2017.
3. Back garden fun: Throw open the back door and set up some fun activities in the garden. How about filling a paddling pool and adding some ball pit balls? Or letting your little one go for it with the paint pots? Unused or old wallpaper rolls are fab for drawing and painting on and as it’s outside there’s less mess to worry about.
Some large coloured chalks and a small concrete space will keep little ones entertained for hours – simply wash the area down with a hose (or wait for the rain) to clean up after.
4. Get planting: If you have space, clear a small patch to plant vegetable or flower seeds. Flowers such as sunflowers and sweet peas can be sown directly into the ground and shoot up fairly quickly. Some varieties of sunflowers (the Mongolian Giant) can grow over 10 feet. If you don’t have a flower bed, why not pop some tomato plants or potato seeds into a grow bag on your patio?
5. Pirate treasure hunt: Indulge your inner pirate by holding a treasure hunt. The kids can dress up too! Make a treasure map with clues and send them on their way. A bounty of gold chocolate coins at the end will make a tasty reward.