Your boredom-busting half-term holiday hacks

School's out next week so our experts share how to have a memorable, stress-free break

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October half term is coming up and whether you're staying at home or taking trips out, our experts are here to ensure it's a stress-free and - dare we say it - even restful experience for the whole family.

You are... STAYING AT HOME

Parenting expert Kirsty Ketley (@kirstykparentingspecialist on Instagram) says:

■Plan

But don't over-plan. Schedule one main activity a day and leave the rest for downtime, because kids need boredom too.

■Create a boredom jar Write on coloured lolly sticks some boredom busting ideas. Try "build a fort", "make a stop-motion video", "create a new superhero".

Only bring it out when the "I'm bored" chorus starts. You can have ideas written on little bits of folded paper, placed in a jar or box too.

■Theme days Pick simple at-home themes like "movie day", "baking day", or "camping indoors" to jazz up ordinary days.

■Meal prep magic Cook a few freezer-friendly meals before half term so you're not constantly thinking about "what's for dinner?"

And plan the week's meals in advance - get the kids to help as part of an activity to cure boredom.

■Day-out bag Have one packed in advance. Snacks, wipes, spare clothes - always ready to grab. Saves time and sanity on spontaneous outings.

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