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Top 5 Best Things to do With Kids During the School Holidays

The School holidays can feel like an impossibly long stretch to fill, especially when you’re trying to balance fun, outdoor activities and meaningful family time. If you find yourself wondering  what to do with kids in the school holidays, you’re certainly not alone. The good news is that with a little creativity and the right setting, those weeks can turn into some of the most memorable moments of the year and perhaps even turn into family memories that will last for a lifetime.

Those who book a stay at a Pario Holiday Parks in North Wales will find themselves perfectly placed to make the most of the school holidays and all that it offers families instead of viewing it as an obstacle to overcome. Here are five inspiring things to do with kids in the school holidays which are sure to keep them smiling from beginning till end.

1. Explore the Outdoors

When it comes to finding things to do with kids in the holidays, getting outdoors should always be high on the list. North Wales is home to some of the UK’s most stunning natural landscapes, and exploring them as a family is both rewarding and invigorating.

A visit to Snowdonia offers an unforgettable experience. Families can challenge themselves with a hike that suits their ability level, building stamina while taking in breathtaking views across the region. Reaching the summit together brings a real sense of achievement for children, making it far more than just a walk.

If you’re after something a little gentler, the North Wales Coastal Path provides a fantastic alternative. The stretch between Colwyn Bay and Llandudno is particularly family-friendly, offering a flatter route lined with attractions, cafes, gift shops and ice cream stops. It’s the perfect blend of activity and relaxation, allowing children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. 

On those days where the sun has got its hat on, you can always turn the outing into a traditional seaside day out at the seaside. There are plenty of local stores from which to purchase a bucket and spade, or you can simply opt to go for a paddle and soak up the sun. 

2. Learn About History

Finding what to do with kids in the school holidays doesn’t always have to mean high energy activities. Sometimes, stepping into the past can be just as invigorating..

A trip to Conwy Castle for example offers an engaging way to bring history to life. Easily accessible from Pario’s North Wales resorts, this impressive fortress sparks curiosity in children as they wander through ancient walls and towers. They’ll discover how castles like Conwy were used for defence, why they were built and what life might have been like centuries ago.

Learning outside the classroom often leaves a lasting impression. By turning history into an adventure, children gain knowledge while enjoying the experience, making it one of the most rewarding things to do with kids during the school holidays.

3. Develop a New Skill

School holidays are also the perfect opportunity to slow things down and focus on personal development. One of the most valuable things to do with kids in the holidays is teaching them a new skill they can carry forward.

Cooking is a brilliant place to start. With self-catering facilities available at all Pario Holiday Parks, families have everything they need to turn meal preparation into a fun, hands-on activity. Choose a recipe together, visit a local shop to pick up ingredients and let your children take the lead where possible.

From measuring and mixing to tasting the final result, the process builds confidence and independence. Watching their creation come together in the oven and then enjoying the experience as a family gives children a real sense of pride. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make everyday moments feel special.

4. Have Fun Indoors

While outdoor adventures are essential, there’s still plenty of value in spending time indoors together. When thinking about what to do with kids in the school holidays, don’t overlook the joy of traditional entertainment.

Board games, card games, and puzzles provide a welcome break from modern day screens and encourage genuine connection. Sitting around a table, laughing, competing and working together creates an atmosphere that’s often missing in modern everyday life.

These moments don’t require elaborate planning or expensive equipment. Instead, they rely on something far more important: time spent together. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a quiet evening, indoor activities can quickly become some of the most cherished memories of the school holidays.

5. Visit Small Local Attractions

It’s easy to default to well-known attractions, but sometimes the most memorable experiences come from unexpected places. When considering things to do with kids during the school holidays, exploring smaller, local attractions can offer something unique.

Instead of heading to larger, busier destinations like Chester Zoo, why not visit Welsh Mountain Zoo? Located in a scenic hillside setting, it provides a more relaxed and intimate experience while still offering plenty to see and do.

Welsh Mountain Zoo plays an important role in conservation, participating in breeding programmes for endangered species and supporting wildlife protection efforts both locally and globally. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and contributes to initiatives designed to safeguard vulnerable populations. By visiting, families not only enjoy a day out but also support a local organisation dedicated to preserving wildlife for future generations. It’s a great example of how choosing a slightly different option can turn a simple outing into something meaningful and educational.

Making the Most of the School Holidays

Ultimately, the school holidays aren’t just about filling time, they’re about creating opportunities. Instead of viewing them as a challenge to constantly find new activities, they can be seen as a chance to strengthen family bonds and build lasting memories.

Whether you’re hiking through mountains, exploring historic landmarks, cooking together, enjoying a board game or discovering hidden gems, each experience contributes to something bigger. These are the moments children remember long after the holidays are over.

With locations close by that can help you fulfill all of these suggestions, Pario’s North Wales holiday parks offer the perfect base for your next family holiday with kids of all ages. The combination of comfortable accommodation and easy access to top attractions means you can enjoy both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

This school holiday, take the opportunity to step away from routine, try something new and spend quality time together. Book your stay with Pario Holiday Parks and turn those weeks off into memories that will last a lifetime.