At LiveWest, we are Creating Greener Futures Together. With the kids off school for the summer holidays, we have put together a list of our recommended ways to keep them entertained, all whilst helping the environment and keeping costs to a minimum.
Keep reading for our top summer activities selected from our Big Summer Holiday Bucket List.
1. Go pond dipping or rock pooling
Our homes in the South West are close to some beautiful coastline and areas of natural beauty (AONB). It is likely that you will be in close distance to some rock pools or ponds.
Make a list of some species you may find, then head to your nearest beach or pond and see what you can find!
Don’t forget to leave animals alone – they are happy in their natural habitat!
2. Make your own ice lollies
When you buy ice lollies from the shop, they usually come in lots of packaging. For a more sustainable and fun option, you can buy re-usable ice lolly moulds from supermarkets. Just fill with diluted cordial, yoghurt or fruit juice, pop in the freezer, and you have your homemade ice pops!
3. Paint your own herb pot
You can purchase small terracotta pots from your local garden centre which are perfect for small herb plants.
Take a look online for inspiration, grab a paint brush and some acrylic paints, and get painting!
Use a sealant to get the best, long-lasting results.
4. Use your painted pot to grow herbs
Whether it’s basil, mint, or rosemary, growing your own herbs is a great way to add more flavour to your food and get closer to nature. The RHS share some advice to help you get started.
5. Build a bug hotel
It is important that we make space for nature in our gardens. This guide from the RSPB will help you get started.
For more ideas on how to help wildlife in your garden, visit our gardening green advice page.
6. Go for a nature walk or a bike ride
Whether it’s your local nature trail or a bike ride to your local park, this is a great way to get the fresh air flowing, reduce your carbon footprint, and entertain the kids.
Visit our green transport advice page to view cycle maps and walking routes, plus information from your local council about cycling in your area.
7. Buy a game from your local charity shop and have a games night
Buying from a charity shop is not only more cost effective than buying brand new but is great for the environment. Purchasing second hand reduces waste, saves water, and saves carbon.
For more sustainable shopping inspiration, visit our shopping green advice page.
8. Use recycling for crafts
From marble runs to bird feeders and tin can creatures, the recycled craft possibilities are endless!
Baker Ross has some great craft ideas with video tutorials to guide.
9. Do a family beach clean
You will often find lots of rubbish and plastic on the beach that has been washed in from the sea. If we don’t clean this up, it will go back into the sea and put the sea life at risk.
A beach clean is a great way to get the family out in the fresh air whilst looking after the environment!
10. Make your own play dough
Shop bought play dough comes in lots of packaging and involves travel to a shop or delivery, which is damaging to the environment.
Play dough is a fun way to spend rainy days inside, so why not try making your own using BBC’s simple recipe?