The summer holidays are finally upon us.
For children that means six weeks of freedom but for adults, it’s six weeks of effort keeping the kids entertained.
Yes, it’s that time of year when we all begin to scratch our heads in a bid to make it through the annual break.
From finding ways to stay busy and active to managing seemingly never-ending appetites, the holidays can not only be stressful but cost a small fortune for some.
In our latest blog, we’re sharing tips to plan a stress-free summer holiday without a hefty price tag.
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1. Check if you’re entitled to summer school meal support
Families usually entitled to free school meals during the school term are being encouraged to check if they’re entitled for extra summer payments to cover the cost of meals.
Those who are eligible should automatically start receiving £2.50 per day, per child, during the holidays. This means that a household with two children could be entitled to around £150 over the break.
Exact dates may vary by local authority but it could be worthwhile checking your entitlement here.
2. Head to the beach
Scotland’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches. Head to places like North Berwick, St. Andrews or Troon for a day of building sandcastles or paddling in the sea.
A trip to the beach doesn’t need to cost the earth either. Children can travel for £1 on Scotrail services during the summer thanks to the Kids for a Quid scheme.
3. Find kids go free deals
Talking of the £1 kids train travel, Scotrail also offers free entry to some of Scotland’s leading attractions with a Kids for a Quid ticket.
Get one free child entry to leading attractions, including Edinburgh Zoo and the Scottish Football Museum & Hampden Park Stadium Tour,, when you purchase a full price standard adult entry.
More information, along with a full list of attractions available using this offer, is available here.
4. Visit your local library
When (not if) the typically Scottish weather lets you down this summer, take a trip to your local library.
Of course, books can transport us to anywhere our imaginations can take us but there’s often a lot more on offer rather than just a host of page turners.
Local libraries often host summer reading challenges, summer storytelling sessions and arts and crafts activities.
Best of all, most of these activities are often free or low cost.
5. Get active
Sometimes the oldest tricks are the best when it comes to entertaining the kids. Getting active during the holidays isn’t only a good way of keeping them out of trouble but also fit and healthy.
According to the NHS, children need to be physically active for 60 minutes a day and offers a wealth of ideas to get your little ones up and moving.
From a 10 minute shake-up routine to playing old school games like rounders or dancing, there are plenty of ways to stay active without any additional cost.
Local authorities and sports clubs often run summer clubs to keep kids busy (and parents sane).
For more inspiration, check out the NHS website here.
6. Keep learning
Keeping children’s minds active during summer is just as important as keeping them physically on the go.
Many of Scotland’s museums and art galleries are free, making them a budget-friendly option. The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh is home to interactive exhibits while Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum offers the chance to step back in time with dinosaur exhibits.
Got a pint-sized scientist on your hands? Head to The Glasgow Science Centre where you can not only enjoy live science shows but also a planetarium.
And of course, Scotland is home to historic castles and monuments sure to keep little ones and adults entertained. Visit Edinburgh or Stirling Castle to delve into Scotland’s past.
Of course, if you’re worried about covering more than just the cost of the summer holidays, it’s important to seek professional support. Our advice team can help you find a way to manage what you owe – whether that’s writing off part of your debt, repaying affordably or simply readjusting your budget.
