The summer holidays are just around the corner—and we don’t know about you, but we’re more than ready for them! The sunny skies, and the chance to press pause on the usual routine offer a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your foster children.
Whether you’re fostering teens, toddlers, or somewhere in between, the summer holidays are a chance to create lasting memories and try new things. What children remember most are the little things—the laughs, the attention, the time spent together. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are a few simple, meaningful ways to make the most of the season.
Make a Summer Bucket List
At the start of the holidays, sit down and write a list together of all the things you’d like to do—big or small. It might be “have a water fight”, “bake brownies”, “go swimming”, “watch a film in a blanket fort”, or “stay up late and look at the stars”.
It gives you both something to look forward to, and it feels great to tick things off the list as the summer goes on.
Get Outside
Spending time outdoors is a brilliant way to unwind and connect. Whether it’s a day at the park or in the countryside, a walk through the woods, or a trip to a local farm, just being in nature helps children feel calm, curious, and free.
If you’re up for a bit more adventure, why not try camping? Even just one night under the stars—whether that’s at a campsite or a tent in your own garden—can be a really special experience. There’s something about cooking on a little stove, telling stories in the dark, and waking up to the sound of birds that just sticks with you. You’ll be surprised how much you learn about each other along the way.
You could also turn a walk into a treasure hunt. Make a simple list of things to spot—like a red flower, a butterfly , a funny-shaped cloud—and tick them off as you go. Kids love it, and it’s an easy way to keep things interesting.
Get Creative with Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts aren’t just for rainy days (though they’re great for those, too and they don’t need to be fancy or expensive. A few paints, glue sticks, some paper and recycled bits from around the house can turn into hours of fun. Whether it’s painting, making jewellery, decorating plant pots or building models—getting stuck in together can be calming, fun, and confidence-building.
Tip: Why not create a “summer scrapbook” together? Stick in photos, drawings, ticket stubs and stories from your adventures. It’s a lovely keepsake—and a great way to reflect on how much you’ve done together.
Skill Up, Together
The holidays are a great time to try something new. Learning a skill side-by-side—whether it’s riding a bike, swimming, cooking, playing an instrument, or even doing some simple DIY—builds trust, patience, and shared pride in achievements.
It doesn’t have to be expensive or overly structured. Even YouTube tutorials or local community classes can open up a world of possibility.
Cook Up Some Fun
Cooking together is one of the easiest ways to bond. Make your own pizzas and let the child choose the toppings. Bake cupcakes and go wild with the decorations. Put together a picnic and head to the garden or park to enjoy it.
Let your foster child take the lead where they can—reading the recipe, cracking the eggs, stirring the mix. You’ll be teaching valuable life skills without it feeling like a lesson.
A Bit of Retail Therapy
A bit of shopping now and then can be more than just spending money – it’s a chance to build confidence and life skills. Letting children choose their own clothes, toys, or school supplies can help them feel seen and heard.
Use it as an opportunity to talk about money, budgeting, and making choices. They’ll feel proud of their choices, and it’s a nice way to show trust and responsibility.
Visit a Museum or Gallery
Museums and galleries are full of chances to spark curiosity and imagination—and many of them are completely free. Lots of places also run special events or activities for children during the school holidays.
It’s not just about learning facts—it’s about discovery, inspiration, and time spent doing something new together. Even just one exhibit or room can lead to some great conversations. Plus, it’s a handy option when the weather turns grey!
Grow Something Together
Even if you don’t have a garden, a few pots on a windowsill can be enough to grow something small. Try sunflowers, herbs, or cress. It’s easy to do, and watching something grow day by day is really rewarding—especially for children who might not have done it before.
You could even decorate the pots as part of a craft day.
Play at Home
Not every day needs to be an outing. Sometimes the best days are spent at home, doing simple things. Board games, card games, or even inventing your own games can keep everyone entertained. Set up a “board game night” with popcorn and a little prize for the winner—it’s cheap, easy, and always good for a laugh.
Of course, every foster family is different, and not everything will suit everyone. That’s totally okay. What matters most is the time spent together, the little moments of connection, and the effort to make memories, however simple.
So, whether you’re planning big days out or just pottering around the garden with an ice lolly in hand, know that you’re doing something special.
What are your summer plans? We’d love to hear them! Share your ideas and let’s inspire each other.
If you’ve ever considered fostering, now’s the time to take the first step. Learn more about becoming a foster carer.
