Parents across the UK could need up to 48 different activities a day to keep young children entertained during the six-week summer break, according to new research from Smyths Toys Superstores. The study found families face up to 630 hours of unstructured time over the holidays, with many parents feeling pressure to keep children busy without relying on screens.
The research found that activities hold the attention of three to five-year-olds for an average of just 16 minutes, meaning parents of this age group may need to think up around 48 activities across a single day. Parents of six to eight-year-olds face a similar challenge, needing roughly 31 activities a day, while those with nine to 11-year-olds still need to find around 22 ways to keep children occupied.
Why boredom isn’t the enemy
Dr Jemma Anderson, a Chartered Educational Psychologist and founder of Perceptive, says the answer isn’t to fill every minute of the day. Boredom, she explains, actually helps children build creativity, problem-solving skills and independence.
“Children who are used to the routine of school can find themselves with long stretches of unstructured time during the summer holidays,” Dr Anderson said. “But boredom isn’t something parents need to eliminate. It encourages children to develop creativity, problem-solving skills and independence. Rather than filling every minute, parents should focus on providing opportunities and inspiration so children can direct more of their own play.”
The PLAY Formula
To help take the pressure off, Smyths’ summer campaign introduces The PLAY Formula, developed by Dr Anderson. It encourages a balanced mix of:
- P – Physical activity: movement that helps children regulate emotions, burn off energy and build healthy routines.
- L – Learning through play: creative and hands-on activities that build curiosity and confidence.
- A – Autonomous play: independent play that lets children direct their own entertainment and build resilience.
- Y – Your people: time spent with family and friends, strengthening relationships and creating memories.
Ideas by age group
For three to five-year-olds, Dr Anderson recommends open-ended toys that can grow with a child’s imagination, such as play kitchens, sensory play sets or drawing activities. For six to eight-year-olds, she suggests giving children more choice over their day, with creative challenges like slime-making or marble runs, plus active options like balance boards and dance mats. For nine to 11-year-olds, self-directed activities such as air track gyms, football training games or family tournaments help build confidence while letting children explore their own interests.
Families can explore Smyths’ full summer range in stores nationwide and online.
