Getting the Summer Holidays Organised.

Your summer holiday activities don't have to be run like clockwork. In fact, no matter how hard you try, you'll never get it that way. Some activities do need to be planned in advance though, particularly the ones involving less fun.

If you're too organised, your children will more than likely end up stressed out and bored. If you aren't organised enough, you'll lose out on great opportunities and miss previous appointments because you forgot - you're too busy doing something else (or recovering from doing something else).

Step 1 - Clear the Calendar.

Unless you'll be attending an event specifically, clear all those birthdays off the calendar and get as close to a blank canvas as possible. It will be easier to work with.

Step 2 - Add Important Appointments.

I like to use the summer holidays as a great excuse to get my daughter's eye test and dental check-up done. It gives me a lot more flexibility and as both the optician and dentist are in a central location I can plan extra activities in the area around what I'm already doing there. Which helps to sweeten the deal - you go to the dentist and we'll (insert activity here) afterwards.

Step 3 - Fixed Events.

Some things are in town for a few days only - e.g. shows, parades, summer festivals etc. Look up local events on the Internet, your local authority website is a good place to start. If you are able to travel, consider where you are able to travel to, then look up activities in those areas. One fixed event per week is plenty for me, two at the very most. If you decide to go to two or more, why not consider making plans with a friend to go and explore, or take the kids to the park together?

Step 4 - Rainy Day Activities.

If our ever-predictable weather fails you, don't despair! There are plenty of things you can do at home. Why not have an indoor picnic, or a "cinema" evening? The indoor picnic is a personal favourite for my daughter, and so simple too. If you're feeling extra adventurous, then don those wellies and get out there - there isn't an activity much more fun than puddle jumping!

If you're still feeling stuck, then always ask a friend or family member for ideas. If you stay at home with the kids for six weeks doing the same thing day in, day out, you'll be pulling your hair out by the end of it. Try and do a little bit of forward planning, it really does help.