Ideas for parents to entertain the children during the holidays

The summer holidays can be a difficult time for parents who have to work while also entertaining children, and even with a good support or childcare network, the best planning in the world can't predict sickness or availability issues.

- By Darren Worth Childline senior supervisor, North of England

For parents with younger children, it can be good to create a visual timetable for the week ahead. Draw something for each day that you can do together-taking a walk, going to the park, having a barbecue or playing in the garden, for example.

Doing this helps younger children understand what to expect, but also helps you think about a balance of indoor and outdoor time-perhaps with a little screen time or sweet snacks thrown in as a treat.