Keeping Your Child Active Over the Summer Holidays
Six weeks off school is something every child looks forward to, but it's a long stretch, and it's easy for activity levels to quietly slide. Lie-ins drift into lazy mornings, screens creep in to fill the gaps, and by September many children are out of their routine and a little out of condition. The good news: keeping your child active over summer doesn't mean filling every day with structured sport. A few simple habits are enough to keep them moving, happy and ready for the new term.
The "summer slide" is real
It's well known that children's reading and maths can dip over the long holiday, but their fitness, coordination and healthy routines can slip too. Activity levels tend to fall, sleep patterns wander, and the daily movement that the school day naturally builds in disappears. Children who stay active over the summer tend to settle back into school more easily, sleep better, and keep the skills and confidence they worked hard for all year.
Build a loose daily rhythm
You don't need a rigid timetable; children actually thrive on a gentle, predictable shape to the day. Try anchoring the morning with something active before screens get a look-in: a walk, a kickabout in the garden, or ten minutes of "wake-up" games. Getting movement in early sets the tone and tends to mean calmer, better-rested children by evening.
Make the most of being outdoors
Summer is the easiest time of year to get outside, and you don't need to go far. Local parks, the green spaces around Caterham and the wider Surrey countryside are perfect for bike rides, scooter trips, ball games, dens and nature treasure hunts. Outdoor play ticks every box at once - physical activity, fresh air, imagination and a natural break from screens.
Let them lead
Children stick with an activity they actually enjoy, so let them have a say. Whether it's swimming, climbing, scootering, dance or simply running around with friends, the best summer activity is the one they'll choose to do again tomorrow. Meeting up with friends to play actively also keeps them social through the break - a win on every front.
How we can help over the summer - up to September
If filling those long days feels daunting, our holiday camps are a brilliant way to keep children active, social and busy through the break - packed days of sport, games and activities that take the pressure off the summer juggle.
However you spend the holidays, a little movement each day will keep your child healthy, happy and ready for whatever comes next.