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How to keep children busy during the August school holidays
28th July, 2026 10:27 AM
The August school holidays are often a welcome break for children after months of classroom learning. For many parents and guardians, however, the weeks away from school can present a different challenge: finding meaningful ways to keep children occupied without spending the entire day in front of a television, tablet or mobile phone.
School holidays are an opportunity for children to rest, develop new skills and strengthen family relationships. A balanced routine that combines learning, play and relaxation can help children return to school refreshed and ready for a new term.
Encourage outdoor play
Outdoor activities remain one of the easiest ways to keep children active during the holidays. Whether it is riding bicycles, playing football, skipping rope, nature walks or simple games in a safe compound, physical activity supports healthy growth and helps children burn off energy.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Regular exercise improves physical health, supports mental wellbeing and encourages better sleep, making outdoor play an important part of the holiday routine.
Turn everyday tasks into learning opportunities
School holidays do not have to mean learning comes to a complete stop. Parents can involve children in simple activities such as cooking, gardening, baking or shopping. These everyday tasks help children practise reading, counting, measuring and problem-solving while learning valuable life skills.
Reading storybooks together, visiting a local library or encouraging older children to keep a holiday journal can also maintain literacy skills without making the experience feel like classroom work.
According to UNICEF, play-based learning helps children build confidence, creativity and communication skills. It also encourages curiosity, allowing children to learn naturally through exploration and interaction with those around them.
Encourage creativity at home
Creative activities can keep children entertained for hours using items already available at home. Drawing, painting, making crafts from recycled materials, storytelling, singing, dancing or acting out short plays give children a chance to express themselves while developing imagination.
Parents can also introduce simple science experiments, puzzles or building projects using household materials to stimulate critical thinking and teamwork.
Setting aside time for these activities reduces boredom while helping children discover talents and interests they may not explore during the school term.
Create a simple daily routine
Although holidays are meant for relaxation, maintaining a basic routine helps children stay organised. Setting regular times for waking up, meals, reading, chores, outdoor play and bedtime creates structure without making the holiday feel restrictive.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to maintain healthy routines during school breaks and to set reasonable limits on recreational screen time. Too much screen use has been linked to reduced physical activity, disrupted sleep and fewer opportunities for social interaction.
Parents can also use the holidays to strengthen family bonds by organising board games, family movie nights, storytelling sessions or visits to relatives. Such moments create lasting memories while giving children a sense of belonging and emotional security.
The August school holiday does not require expensive outings or elaborate plans to be enjoyable. With a little planning and creativity, families can turn the break into a period of learning, fun and quality time together. By balancing play, education and rest, children can enjoy the holiday while developing skills that continue to benefit them long after they return to school.
