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Whether you have a baby, toddler, or child, the summer holidays can bring up mixed feelings for parents. It might seem that everyone has plans, or there is some nostalgia for magical summers of the past.  It is a time we are programmed to feel that we should look forward to, but the truth is, when the daily routine goes out of the window and the usual classes and get-togethers are postponed, you can feel really stuck for ideas of how to fill your days. 

Nursery rhymes – some parents love them, and some don’t... but babies, toddlers and even older children often find them irresistible making a rhyme time-type group an ideal way to fill long days together. Over the summer lots of these groups will have paused, so we’ve been sharing ways to create your own mini-versions at home.  

This week it is all about rhymes and songs, with ideas for all ages which can be done one-on-one with your little one or with a group of friends.  

We’ve been sharing ideas for DIY baby and toddler groups, to use while your usual ones are closed for the summer. This week it's all about getting moving. From an obstacle course at home to games at the park, we’ve got ideas to keep you both moving this summer. 

Often you don’t need to have a set time for moving, just make sure your child has enough space to wriggle, walk, run and jump safely.  

We’ve been sharing ideas for DIY baby and toddler groups, to use while your usual ones are closed for the summer. This week it's all about stories and rhymes. From singing old favourites to making a game out of reading together we have pulled together ideas that can be adapted for your child’s interests and skills. 

Before you start, decide where you will do your story time group and make sure the space is comfortable and fairly quiet.  

A blanket under the dining table, a sheet over the washing line, or simply a box big enough to sit inside becomes magical when you make this your den. Just having their morning snack in it might be something your child remembers for years – we've got some ideas to get you started.  

Younger and older children playing together 

If you have both younger and older children, having their own separate den or cosy corner might be best.  

If your usual groups are taking their summer break, or you’re taking some annual leave, you might have a bit more time to play. Your activity page is a great place to start, check it for ideas which will be linked to the skills your child is working on now. If you’re looking for inspiration for a rainy day indoors – play dough and sensory games could be just the thing.  

Play dough is great for building strength in hands and fingers, and for older children can be a fantastic way to get creative.

We love a kitchen disco, and we think dancing and enjoying music can be part of everyday life – but if you fancy a bit of time focusing on tunes we’ve got some ideas for you.  

We often say our activities use things you have in your kitchen cupboard (or just outside the front door), but we’ve been asked, “What do you actually think is in my kitchen cupboard?” So, we thought it might be useful to make a list of some of the things we try to keep on hand – a bit like the store cupboard essentials you’d have in a recipe book... this is your store cupboard for play this summer.  

If you have anything you’d add to the list, share your ideas in our Facebook community.  

Summer holidays are in full swing across the UK, and this might mean you’re suddenly in charge of entertaining multiple children (of very different ages). With the days and weeks stretching out in front of you it can seem impossible to find activities which will entertain them all – and that’s where we come in. Over the summer months we will share articles all about adapting simple, joyful play for children of all ages so you can focus on the important things.  

This week we’re splashing into summer with ideas for water play! 

There is a saying that goes ‘If your children are starting to climb the walls, remove the walls and play with water’. This is because water play can entertain and engage children of all ages, but also has therapeutic qualities which mean that is helps to calm, regulate and ground children in a way that other play opportunities do not.  

"You don't have to pay loads of money and go on massive trips to make memories this summer." 

On this week’s podcast episode, My First Five Years co-founders Jennie and Alistair talk about the pressures summer can bring.