The end of the summer holidays can creep up faster than we’d like. One minute you’re paddling in the sea, the next you’re buying school shoes and hunting for that missing PE kit. But before the term-time chaos begins, there’s still time to squeeze in some quality moments with the kids — the kind that will stick with them long after the school bell rings.
Here’s how to make the most of those final weeks.
1. Plan One ‘Big Thing’
It doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant — just something that’s a little different from the everyday routine. It could be a day trip to the beach, a theme park, a camping adventure in the garden, or even a DIY sports tournament in the local park. The key is to pick something memorable that everyone looks forward to.
2. Go Screen-Free (Just for a Day)
In a world of constant notifications, it’s surprisingly refreshing to declare a ‘no screens’ day. Play board games, bake something together, go for a bike ride, or try geocaching. Without the distraction of devices, you might be amazed at the conversations you have.
3. Make an ‘End of Summer’ Bucket List
Sit down with your kids and ask them what they’d still love to do before school starts. It could be as small as having a picnic in the park or as ambitious as building a giant Lego city together. The point is to let them have a say — they’ll be more invested, and you might get ideas you wouldn’t have thought of.
4. Capture the Little Moments
You don’t need to turn every day into a photo shoot, but snapping a few candid moments — ice cream moustaches, grass-stained knees, sleepy smiles after a day out — can be a great way to remember these last lazy summer days. Bonus: these are the pictures you’ll look back on when the school run feels never-ending.
5. Get Them Involved in the Prep
Back-to-school prep doesn’t have to be boring. Turn shopping for supplies into a treasure hunt, let them choose a fun new lunchbox, or get creative decorating homework folders. This way, they feel a sense of excitement rather than dread about going back.
6. Have a Dad–Kid Tradition
Whether it’s an annual end-of-summer barbecue, a special breakfast on the last Sunday before school, or one final late-night movie marathon, create a tradition that marks the close of the summer. It gives them something to look forward to year after year.
Bottom line:
These last weeks aren’t just about filling the calendar — they’re about creating memories that last longer than the summer itself. Whether you go big or keep it simple, make time to connect, laugh, and enjoy being together. School will be here soon enough… so make these days count.
