Finally, the clocks have gone forward and the long, dark days are over…well nearly anyway, we still have the British ‘spring’ weather to contend with. But at least the evenings are now lighter and getting lighter by each passing day. There is so much to look forward to; warmer days, baby animals being born in the countryside, a more vibrant countryside, a bit of sunshine (maybe), spending more time outside and most excitingly for younger family members, time off school during the Easter Holidays.
Now, you may have or have not forgotten about the two weeks off coming up and are now thinking about what to do with your child during the break. Don’t fear, we’ve got some ideas for what you can do in the Spring this year!
Springtime in the UK
The season that helps to lift the spirits of many form the doldrums of winter, the season that has inspired some of the literary greats such as Emily Dickinson and Thomas Hardy and the season that brings a renewed life to the UK.
Springtime in the UK brings with it the sounds of baby animals in the fields, bright flowers emerging from the ground, a few rays of sunshine that beat through the dark clouds, the chance to get some fresh air and away from sitting in every evening and for a lot of people, most importantly; the springtime makes people happier.
If you are out and about in the countryside during spring, you will see lambs, fox cubs, fawns and a whole array of colourful flowers in the meadows and fields. If you keep an eye out, you could also see some amazing animals living in cities like otters, kingfishers and falcons.
If you have been keeping up with Wild Isles on BBC, then you will have seen how amazing Britain is in the springtime, but you will also learn on the damaging effect that we as humans have done to nature and the animals that call it home. This is where finding something to do with your family during the Easter Holidays can also be beneficial to the environment and nature too.
The natural world and the countryside are crucial for the development in children and there are some huge benefits of spending time in it.
Why is nature important for children?
There have been many studies into the link between a healthier mental wellbeing and spending time in nature. According to a report done by the Wildlife Trust, when children spend time in nature they develop new skills, learn more, find a new way of learning and gain new positive experiences.
It was also found that out of the 450 primary school aged children who were asked to take part in this study; 90% of them learned something new about nature, 79% felt more in confident in themselves, 84% felt that they were capable of trying new things and 79% of them felt that their experience could help them with their schoolwork.
Not only does it help with self-confidence, it also helps the inquisitive and creative sides.
Spending time in nature can really make a difference to a child’s life, even 1 hour can really help to improve your children’s mental health. If it is possible to, try and spend a bit of time away from the inside this Easter and experience one of the most beautiful seasons in the UK. We know it is not always easy to but if you can, it is more than worthwhile!
What can I do this Easter with my children?
There are so many things you can do with your family this spring and easter time which don’t have to cost a lot of money or any at all. A lot of them you can do and for free and in nature.
Go for a walk in the countryside. On the theme of the country… this easy and peaceful activity can take as much time or as little time as you and your family want it to. There are thousands of square miles of countryside and woodland in the UK which is amazing to visit in the springtime. Find a country walk near you and off you go! Be mindful of animals and plants when you are out though, try not to disturb anything that is living there.
Go on an Easter Egg Hunt. What’s better for children and adults than going to a beautiful setting somewhere and searching for chocolate? Find an Easter Egg hunt nearby and have fun with your little rabbits or chicks searching for some tasty chocolate.
Find an eco-friendly day out. Apart from the obvious of going for a walk in the countryside, there are thousands of environmentally friendly days out in the UK that your family will love. From visiting the Eden Project to going to an eco-farm or farmers market, visiting a botanical garden or going to the beach, leaving only your footprints.
Go paddleboarding or kayaking. If the weather is on your side and you can get to a coastal town or village, either take your own paddleboard or kayak or hire one and go for a little adventure with your family. Remember to be safe and only go out if the weather is good to. It is a good idea to check with the RNLI if it safe to go on the wate on specific days. If you are lucky you will be able to see some amazing wildlife in our waters such as seals, dolphins, whales and if you are in the right part of the country, even basking sharks! Be careful with their habitats though and don’t try and touch any animals.
Go to see a show. No, we know, it isn’t usually an outdoor activity and the time for open air plays is not yet upon us but going to see a play or a musical with the family is a great way to spend an afternoon. If you live in a city, it is a little easier to go to the theatre at the drop of a hat but a lot of towns and even some villages will be putting on shows this Easter.
Go to the cinema. If all fails and the weather is ‘typically British’, resign you and your family to going to a cinema and watching a film. A lot of cinemas are putting on some classic children’s films this Easter that your little ones will love! Check out your local cinema to find what is on that you and your family can enjoy.
Spend time together. Family time has been found to be extremely important and it can help to build even stronger bonds within your family. We know that work life gets a way a lot for families but where you can, try and spend time with them doing anything. The simplest and easiest days out together are usually the best.
This is obviously isn’t an exhausted list but you get the picture. Spending time together this Easter and enjoying the beauty of springtime in the UK will be a winning formula for a day out, any day.
