Summer is finally here! If you haven’t started planning ways to keep the kids entertained, now’s the time.
We’ve rounded up fantastic ideas for family days out, activities and events throughout the holidays. Discover local summer camps and workshops packed with fun, friendship and adventure.
We also share simple ways to prevent summer learning loss by making reading and learning part of the holiday fun. Plus, find delicious summer lunches that children will love and can help prepare.
For even more inspiration, explore our packed What’s On guide, full of family-friendly events and activities right on your doorstep.
Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat
This summer, libraries across the UK are inviting children to discover the connection between music and storytelling through the Summer Reading Challenge’s 2026 theme: Read to the Beat. Running from 4th July to early September, the challenge has a new partnership with Universal Music Group UK, harnessing the appeal of music to reverse declining reading enjoyment among young people. Specially curated reading lists and activities will guide children through diverse musical genres and cultural influences, while special events and interactive digital content will explore how rhythm, melody and narrative spark creativity. Now in its 26th year, the challenge typically engages more than half a million children annually. Children can sign up at their local library, where they’ll receive a collector’s folder and earn stickers and cards as rewards for each book read over the summer. �� summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds
Giving children and young people the Creative Courage to stand up on stage for over 35 years.
AMERSHAM 07887 500788
stagecoach.co.uk/amersham
AYLESBURY 01525 790795
stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury
HIGH WYCOMBE 01494533202 stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe
HENLEY AND MARLOW 07539 753718
stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow
Little Heroes Learn First Aid
Would your child know what to do in a first aid situation? First Aid with Bertie is a brand new and exciting programme designed by experts at St John Ambulance aimed at teaching children between the ages of 5 – 11 basic first aid skills. Your child will learn what items can be found in a first aid kit, how to make an arm sling and lots more!
For a small monthly gift of £9, your child will be sent fun and engaging activity packs, colouring pages and stickers over the course of six months (some by post, other via email). All the activities are designed to be completed in the comfort of your own home and at your child’s own pace. At the end of those six months, your child will receive a cute cuddly toy of Bertie Badger along with a certificate to celebrate their achievement!
Keep your child busy and entertained this summer whilst also having them learn new and potentially vital skills!
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to ban social media use for children under 16 as part of a major drive to improve online safety. The move aims to protect young people from harmful content, cyberbullying, addictive platform features and the negative impact excessive social media use can have on mental health and wellbeing.
The Government says new measures will include robust age verification systems and huge fines for social media companies to prevent under-16s from accessing their platforms. Going further than Australia’s ban, they are also considering screentime limits for under-fives, amid growing concerns about the impact of excessive screen use on young children’s development and well-being.
Ministers argue the changes are necessary to create a safer online environment and reduce the risks faced by children and teenagers. The announcement follows growing calls from parents, schools and child safety campaigners for tighter regulation of social media companies.
Building School-Ready Skills through Gymnastics
Recent research from Kindred Squared found that more than a third of children starting Reception are not considered ‘school ready,’ with many struggling with core skills such as: body control, listening, communication, balance, coordination and independence. This included some unable to sit upright on the carpet, dress themselves, or confidently play with other children.
At The Little Gym Handy Cross, their developmental gymnastics classes are designed to help children build the foundations they need before starting school. Through purposeful movement and structured play, children develop balance, coordination, focus, confidence and listening skills – all essential for classroom and social success. Their age-appropriate programmes also encourage independence, resilience, turn-taking and following instructions in a fun, nurturing environment. More than just gymnastics, their child development and gymnastics specialists help children build the confidence and essential life skills they need to thrive at school and beyond.
Discover The Little Gym difference: �� handycross.thelittlegym.co.uk
FREE West End Theatre Tickets for Kids
Kids Week returns this summer, allowing children under age 17 to enjoy participating West End shows for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. Running from 20th July to 31st August, this initiative offers families a unique chance to experience live theatre together. Alongside the performances, Kids Week features additional activities like post-show Q&A sessions, dance workshops and musical theatre classes. As an added bonus, each adult paying full price can also purchase up to two additional children’s tickets at half price, making it even more accessible for families to take part. Purchase tickets and find a full list of shows and activities at the link below. �� officiallondontheatre.com/ kids-week
A Summer of Butterflies
The Big Butterfly Count 2026 will take place from 17th July to 9th August inviting people across the country to help track butterfly populations. Organised by Butterfly Conservation, the event asks volunteers to spend 15-minutes spotting and recording butterflies in gardens, parks and countryside. The count runs for three weeks and is open to everyone.
Researchers rely on the Big Butterfly Count to monitor trends and spot warning signs about the environment. Butterflies respond quickly to changes in climate and habitat, so their numbers can reveal broader issues affecting wildlife. Last year’s results showed worrying declines for several species, prompting calls for more action to protect habitats.
With mounting concern over insect declines, organisers hope that even more people will take part in 2026. The data collected will go straight to scientists and conservationists working to save butterflies and the places they depend on. More info: �� bigbutterflycount.org
Win a Golden Ticket to The Roald Dahl Museum
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden has teamed up with Families Chiltern to offer one lucky reader a family day pass (2 adults and 2 children) to visit the attraction dedicated to one of the UK’s most celebrated authors. The museum has a feast of activities lined up this summer with its Fantastic Foxy Summer programme from Tuesday 21st July to Wednesday 2nd September. It’s a six-week celebration of Fantastic Mr Fox, packed with fantastic hands-on fun.
Visitors can craft clay feasts, build junk-model excavators, and enjoy daily storytelling. Families can join an Animation Day to create a stop-motion short film, drawing inspiration from an original Wes Anderson film set on display. There is also the Awesome Animals Village Trail or an outdoor writing workshop with local poet Will Burns. Every day, families can also drop into the museum’s
LEGO activity area to build a host of Roald Dahl animals, from Mr Fox to the Enormous Crocodile. Plus, join in with traditional courtyard games like Pin the Tail on the Fox. The Museum also has two SEND Explore Your Way Days (Mondays 3rd and 24th August) which offer a relaxed, quieter museum experience.
For more information, call 01494 892 192, visit: �� roalddahlmuseum.org
CLICK HERE to enter this giveaway and see our terms and conditions. The closing date for entries is 20 July 2026.
Your Ultimate Summer of Family Fun
By Claire Lockie-Williams
SCORCHING SUMMER SPLASH SPOTS
It’s that time of year again and all the splash parks across Bucks have opened up to offer Free Family Fun and (hopefully) lots of summer sun! There’s no excuse not to go out and still stay cool with Free Splash Parks at: Cassiobury Park, Ruislip Lido, Gadebridge Park and Parson’s Close.
Odds Farm Park are holding their annual Summer Sizzler! There are many fantastic rare breed animals to visit as well as some amazing activities to enjoy. Cool off in their H2Odds water play area, complete with a series of hands-on play activities. Explore their outdoor adventure play Mini Golf course, enjoy tractor and trailer rides and drive Marmalade’s Mini Rovers. Plus, there’s plenty of weather-proof fun in their indoor soft play barn! Take advantage of the Summer Sizzler Pass, which gives guests unlimited access to the farm park every single day of the summer!
Enjoy a Wild Day Out at Whipsnade Zoo. The UK’s biggest zoo is right on our doorstep with over 11,000 animals, a huge play zone and butterfly house, bird shows and steam train rides. They have amazing experiences: Keeper for a Day, Zoo Explorers and Sleepover at the Zoo.
There’s an array of naturebased activities to explore at the Amersham Field Centre, perfect for family adventures and finding your inner child. There are experts on hand running exciting nature-inspired activities, a delightful woodland to explore and many challenging trees to climb. There’s the chance to discover
the delights of pond-dipping and the creatures that live there, sweep netting fun in a lush meadow and mini-beast hunting! It’s the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy family time.
Families can enjoy Butterfly Adventures at Waterperry Gardens this summer for some orienteering family fun! There are the beautiful gardens to explore, using directions and clues to find handmade butterflies- kids get a free compass and prize! There’s also many childfriendly theatre productions and operas on at Waterperry over the summer season too!
The Bucks Goat Centre is a lovely family day out in Aylesbury, with animal interactions, a play area and activities running through the summer holidays. Perfect for any age! Keep an eye out for special activities running at The Horses Trust. An amazing place to visit and support, families can meet retired and rescued horses, see their life stories and learn this important charity’s history. Read our Junior Reporter’s review of The Horse’s Trust on page 10.
There’s a thrilling showing of The Jungle Book at Black Park Country Park, with energy, excitement and awesome entertainment!
Pitstone Museum is holding three Heritage Park Open Days across the summer, offering an amazing opportunity to take a breath and step back into a quieter, slower time before the digital age. The Elgiva are holding a live theatre experience of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ in Lowndes Park.
College Lake is an amazing area to visit, whatever the weather. There’s the wonderful wildlife centre, summer
activities and great guided walks! Get up close to lovely ponies and support the Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary with a weekend visit. There’s pony grooming & activities for all the family.
SUMMER ADVENTURES WITH A TWIST
Roll up, roll up! The circus is at Bekonscot Model village this Summer! The have 12 brilliant model puppets made by NFTS students ready for visitors to meet. Plus, they are bringing back the amazing magician Greg Chapman who will delight and dazzle his audiences on selected days throughout the holidays. There’s an exclusive World Cup celebration exhibition that walks you through the history of the game and gives a chance to WIN a replica 2026 football. For one weekend only, the Light Railway will be running 50p train rides to celebrate the Light Railway’s Silver Jubilee
This summer is packed full of fabulous family fun and amazing adventures at Bletchley Park. Families can immerse themselves in the rich history of the house with exciting tours and fascinating interactive exhibits Dive into history and discover the remarkable people and machines who left an extraordinary mark on history breaking the Enigma Cipher. There’s Codebreaking fun with hands on arts and craft workshops and engaging activity areas showcasing how Codebreakers enjoyed their free time. Plus, enjoy the lush grounds while making the most of the summer sun (or shade!) with a playground, picnic areas and giant chess.
Bucks Culture Open Weekends returns this August with three long weekends of family-friendly events! Under this year’s theme, Roots, Rhythms and Rituals, visitors can explore creative workshops, live performances, exhibitions, storytelling, heritage activities and hands-on experiences that celebrate the people, places and traditions that shape our county. From discovering local history and trying new creative activities to enjoying music, dance and
WILD NATURE ESCAPES
community celebrations, there will be something for all ages. Whether families are looking for a day out or a chance to discover something new on their doorstep, Open Weekends offer opportunities to explore culture across Bucks!
It’s a Steaming Summer of Fun at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway! Step aboard a new exciting adventure, immerse yourself in a journey through the beautiful Chilterns and enjoy the scenic sights. There are Steam and Heritage Diesel steaming days for avid train enthusiasts and eager newbies alike,
Put the pedal to the medal this
Put the Pedal to the Metal this summer for a deliciously different experience through Oracle Red Bull Racing. There’s the chance for fans to explore behind-the-scenes on one of their exciting Factory Tour Experience days. Learn how Formula 1™ cars are manufactured, from design to production, and see iconic championship-winning cars up close! Visitors can also join them for a live Formula 1™ Screening Event, perfect for avid racing fans to meet likeminded supporters, explore themed refreshments and get up close to iconic cars. Unique experiences for hard core fans, enthusiasts and newbies alike!
It’s Full Steam Ahead at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre!
Railway Café. Special event days return too, from their biggest Classic Vehicle Show to their Emergency Services Day, celebrating our heroes with FREE entry for all Emergency Service personnel. With Thomas & Friends steaming in for a Big Day Out, it’s time to get swept away by steam-powered excitement!
It’s all about hidden messages at Wycombe Museum, with Super Spies on the case! Families can decode and solve a garden ‘laser’ maze!
SPECTACULAR SUMMER ADVENTURES
Families are in for a treat as Waddesdon Manor’s Summer of Play bursts back into action! With free activities and children going free, there’s excitement at every turn. Join the Big Butterfly Count on Animal Week or get active with climbing, archery, axe throwing and mini golf. Dive into pirate and mermaid crafts (you can even climb inside a giant whale!) during By the Seaside Week – then it’s all topped off with an unforgettable Circus Activity Week! Plus, there’s a fabulous foray of
Summer Fun
Families can enjoy the outdoors and immerse themselves in history and culture at the Chiltern Open Air Museum this summer. Not only are their Terrific Tuesdays back with a bang (and themed family crafts and activities aplenty,) but they’re boasting a series of fabulous weekends filled with re-enactors and shows. Take your life in your own hands with rakish Rogues and Highwaymen, dance and be merry with Terrific Tudors, meet the Ragged Victorians and see Victorious Vikings in their own camp! Plus, there’s a wonderful heritage crafts weekend with demonstrations from a range of heritage crafts.
Families can unleash their energy on a Pokémon adventure at Hughenden Manor, celebrating the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Series. Calling Pokémon fans, new and old, get active outdoors on their Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail Families can team up to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers and complete challenges. Free with admission and for National Trust members, it’s a fascinating adventure and the delights of the Manor and grounds are not to be missed either. Head to Hughenden Manor and get ready for a mega adventure!
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre is bursting with fun family activities this summer based on Fantastic Mr Fox! With daily storytelling, themed crafts, courtyard games and LEGO™ building. There’s also a whole host of wonderful workshops to delight families. There’s junk model digger building and crafty creations a plenty. Create a stopmotion short film and a clay feast.
Plus, a family poetry adventure exploring the outdoors and an Awesome Animals Village Trail around Great Missenden, inspired by the wonderful creatures in Fantastic Mr Fox. Perfect for families, fabulous for fun.
Spark curiosity at Discover Bucks Museum with engaging family activities that combine imagination, interaction and education Visitors can set off on a thrilling Dragon Quest; gather a team, follow the clues to track the dragon and have fun with the hands-on challenges! There’s also their Saxon exhibition with life-like Saxon warriors, glittering treasures and incredible archaeological discoveries from across Buckinghamshire to explore. An ideal day out for curious minds and young explorers! Plus, on one weekend the museum garden will be transformed into a bustling living history encampment, with thrilling weapons demonstrations, the dramatic live acting scenes and storytelling sessions.
MAKE SUMMER MEMORIES AT EDEN
Looking for a family day out this summer? Eden Shopping Centre has everything you need in the heart of High Wycombe, from big name stores and family dining to leisure and summer activities.
With over 100 stores, there is something for every age and budget. Families can also enjoy Cineworld, Hollywood Bowl, TeamSport, Clip ’n Climb, Carnival Golf & Games and Pirates Landing, bringing even more family fun to Eden this summer. Whether you are planning a full day out, a quick bite or a summer shop,
Eden is the perfect place to make the most of the season. To stay up to date with summer events, competitions, new openings and exclusive news, visit �� edenshopping.co.uk or follow Eden on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
FABULOUS FAIRS AND FESTIVALS
Hats Off Chesham is kicking off summer celebrations with their fabulous and FREE community event Families can wander through the town and enjoy activities, music and fun stalls. Princes Risborough is also celebrating with a FREE Summer Fest community day on their High Street, bringing a weeks’ worth of community events to a close.
It’s a Whizz Fest this July, with Whizz Kids Charity running a series of family events celebrating creativity and community across Aylesbury, Wycombe and Chesham Libraries, Friar’s Square and an amazing weekend at Eden Shopping Centre with live performances, creative crafts, dance and much more. Woodrow House in Amersham is hosting an exciting Summer Birthday Bash celebrating their 80th birthday. Kids can meet a mermaid, play lawn games, try high ropes or archery. There will also be music, food and craft stalls.
Bledlow Village is hosting a fabulous feté with family activities, a dog show, music and a classic car show. Hazlemere Fete returns this August for its incredible 164th year, bringing a full day of fun including live music, dog shows, classic cars and a craft fair!
The iconic Lee Flower Show returns with a day filled with family fun! There will be arts, classes and shows and it finishes on a bang with the traditional Lee Flower Show Dance. The GXCA are holding a vibrant, community fair, packed with activities, performances, a dog show and much more!
Get ready for the most accessible festival this summer. Thomley’s ‘Accessival’ Music Festival is an inclusive community event with fabulous fun, food and drink.
There’s FREE family fun in Aylesbury with Conjuring on the Cobbles and their superb free family-friendly festival Parklife promising a weekend full of music including: Live in the Park, Battle of the Bands, Proms in the Park and a spectacular fireworks display.
Whatever your vibe this summer, we’ve got you covered. Explore our What’s On Guide from page 26 for all the dates and details of these fabulous activities and plenty more to enjoy.
The Horse Trust, the oldest horse charity in the world, is dedicated to helping retired and rescue horses. Established in 1886 by Anna Lindo, who was inspired by the novel ‘Black Beauty’, it provides a place where veteran horses (horses over 15 who must be monitored for any sign of illness) can rest and live in peace.
All over the stables, there are interesting back stories to each horse and an ‘All About Me’ profile, which includes their gender, height and their favourite things. One of the horses, Elizabeth, had been gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 and taken part in King Charles III’s coronation! She had also worked for the Metropolitan Police and the Royal Mews.
One highlight was finding out about a pony’s working life. Most of the ponies there used to help and support disabled adults and young people by giving them the opportunity to ride and care for them, even if they might be young or inexperienced. This is such a special role: the pony needs to be kind, wellbehaved and patient while in the stable and when ridden.
On our way out, we visited the cosy tearoom. It has a small gift shop with plushes, coasters, magnets, stationery, games and bubbles. As we left, we donated an apple to the horses and a small donation which goes towards the horses’ care. You should definitely visit!
Tring Park
By Lilly Grice
As I wandered through the expanse of Tring Park, which once belonged to the rich Rothschild family, I spotted wild roses, hawthorn bushes and yellow cowslips. The park is a mixture of vast chalk grasslands, designated a site of special scientific interest, woodland, hills and meadows.
I walked down a lime tree avenue which used to be the grand approach to the family’s manor house and spotted a large wood ahead of me. Curious, I opened the gate and went through. There was a sign which explained that the Rothchild’s bought the park in 1872. Many of the buildings they once owned are still here today, including the Zoological Museum in Tring.
I cut through the wood to the play area which was an open space surrounded by trees. There were various carved animals, including owls, a tortoise and wallabies. I found out that Walter Rothschild, the son of Lord Rothschild was fascinated by wallabies and animals and took some kiwis with him when he went to study at Oxford University.
I had a cup of tea at a mushroom table and chair, carved out of wood. I spotted a sign saying Denwood, so I played in some of the dens that had already been made. I had a lot of fun!
There were also other signs dotted around the park. Did you know a spotted woodpecker’s tongue is really long? If you compare it to our tongue, it would hit our knees The bird uses it to catch grubs and bugs deep inside trees. This was one of the things I learned during my walk.
I left the woodland and returned to the open light and ambled through tree-peppered meadows, spotting cows grazing on the way. It was incredible to find so much space close to the centre of Tring.
You can take your dog as long as you keep it on a lead in some places and parking is free. It was a fun morning out.
CHINNOR & PRINCES RISBOROUGH RAILWAY
MULTI-SPORTS
Busy Living Holiday Camp
A fun and active way to keep children engaged during the school holidays. Every day is packed with sports activities, arts and crafts, cooking, games, sensory activities, opportunities to make new friends and exciting sessions from outside providers. Where: Chalfont St Peter and Aylesbury (HP18). When: All 4 weeks of the summer holidays, 8am-6pm. Ages: 5–11 years.
Visit �� busy-living.co.uk and see the ‘Out of School Clubs’ tab for booking information.
Captiv8 Holiday Superstars
Give your child an action-packed summer with Captiv8 Holiday Superstars. These energetic holiday camps are filled with sport, creativity and adventure. Children can enjoy dodgeball, football, basketball, badminton, tennis, volleyball, athletics, arts and crafts, dance, films, quizzes, themed days, team-building challenges and much more. Swimming is also included at the Stoke Mandeville venue. With a strong focus on confidence, friendship and fun, every day is varied, active and designed to keep children engaged throughout the holidays. Where: Chalfont St Giles Junior School and Stoke Mandeville Stadium.
To book: Call 07805 955305 or visit: �� captiv8life.com
Multisports Amersham Summer Workshops
A fabulous week of sport, ideal for ages 4-16. No experience necessary, all equipment provided. Ofsted registered and childcare vouchers are accepted. Limited places left, don’t miss out and book today!
Where: Dr Challoner’s High School, Little Chalfont. Ages: 4-16yrs.
When: 27th July–31st July
Where: Dr Challoner’s High School. To book: Call 07704 675554 or visit: �� multisports.co.uk
Little Lanterns Holiday Club
Give your child a holiday filled with fun, friendship and adventure at Little Lanterns Holiday Club. Children can enjoy a variety of engaging activities, make new friends, explore the outdoors and take part in creative play in a safe and welcoming environment. Every day is designed to help children have fun, build confidence and create memories.
When: Please enquire for dates and details
To book: lanternslittle41@gmail. com or call: 07888 618832.
Wild Woodrow Day Camps
Looking for an unforgettable summer adventure? Wild Woodrow Day Camps give children the chance to try something new, make new friends and create lasting memories in a fun outdoor environment. Packed with exciting challenges and adventures, these actionfilled camps run throughout the summer holidays and are designed to build confidence, teamwork and independence. Where: Woodrow Outdoor Learning and Leisure Centre, Amersham. Ages: 7-12 years. When: Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5:30pm throughout the summer holidays. Book your space today and save 10%, using the code ‘FAMILIES’.
�� woodrowhighhouse.org
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION FAMILIES CHILTERN MAGAZINE WHEN YOU BOOK.
Iver Environment Centre
Get outdoors and enjoy an unforgettable summer of nature-based adventures at Iver Environment Centre. Wild Week (3rd–7th August) offers 5-days of outdoor activities, games and environmental exploration for children aged 7-11 years
Older children can take part in Wild Teens (11th–13th August), with even more adventurous nature activities for 11-16 yrs including the opportunity for an overnight sleepover. To book: �� iverenvironmentcentre.org
EDUCATIONAL
Empower Young Techies with Code Ninjas Summer Camps Brand new AI Camps and some familiar favourites make this season of Code Ninjas Camps in High Wycombe and Aylesbury their biggest one yet! Camps running this summer: Minecraft® Redstone Engineering, YouTube AI Production Studio, AI Coding and Machine Learning, Roblox World Building, JR Lego® Robotics and Minecraft® Where: Bucks New Uni Campuses in High Wycombe and Aylesbury.
Dates: Various – see camps calendar on their website Ages: Ages 8+, JR Camps for 5-7yrs.
Cost: From £55 +VAT per day. OFSTED registered – Tax Free Childcare or Childcare Vouchers accepted. All hardware and software included. Small group sizes –limited seats!
To book: Select location online at: �� codeninjas.co.uk or call: 01494 623125
11+ Summer School
Highly recommended summer school to help children prepare for the 11+ exam. A team of highly trained professional teachers will provide an engaging environment with a mixture of mock examinations, tuition, teaching and revision sessions.
Where: Total Tutoring, near The Rye, High Wycombe. When: 24th–28th August, (Summer School). Plus fl exible, weekly lessons.
Ages: Pupils taking the 11+ in September 2026. To book, visit: �� totaltutoring.co.uk or email: vicky@totaltutoring. co.uk
Wild Woodrow Day Camps
Summer Camps
GYMNASTICS
The Little Gym Handy Cross Summer Camps
Packed with serious fun, energetic activities and confi dence-building gymnastics for children of all abilities. The Little Gym Handy Cross Summer Camps combine skill-building, games, arts and crafts, STEM activities, messy play and themed gymnastics coaching. Summer themes include: Summer Games (20–23 July), Under the Sea (27–30 July), Ninja Warrior (3–6 August), Secret Agents (10–13 August), Shipwrecked (17–20 August) and Hawaiian Hideaway (24–27 August), with afternoon sessions focusing on skills such as cartwheels to aerials, back handsprings, parkour, handstands to handsprings and somersaults.
Where: The Little Gym Handy Cross, High Wycombe.
When: 20th July–27th August.
Ages: Morning camps for 3–8 years, afternoon camps for 5–12 years, full-day camps for 5–8 years.
To book: Visit �� thelittlegym. co.uk/handycross
PERFORMING ARTS
Summer Acting Course with Tring Park School
Develop your performance skills this summer at Tring Park School’s Summer Acting Course. During this exciting week, you’ll be immersed in a range of dynamic and engaging workshops designed to develop your acting skills. Led by experienced industry professionals, participants will build confidence, creativity and stage presence while collaborating with like-minded young performers in a fun and supportive environment. The workshops will cover various aspects of performance and technique including: improvisation, scene study, character development, screen acting and physical theatre. At the end of the week, there will be an informal performance where you will be able to showcase the skills you’ve developed in the
course.
Where: Tring Park School (HP23 5LX.)
When: 26th–30th July 2026
Ages: 10–16 years
To book: �� https://www. tringpark.com/holidaycourses/summer-residentialacting-course/
Summer Holidays in Neverland with Perform Children aged 4–10 can join an adventure to Neverland with Perform this summer. Filled with drama, dance and singing, storytelling and arts and crafts, the children will join Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and friends for 3, 4 or 5 days of confidencebuilding fun, ending with a joyful performance for family and friends.
When: Courses take place across July or August. Where: Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrards Cross and Wendover. To book: Visit�� perform.org. uk/peterpan for dates & details.
CREATIVE
Summer Art Club Inspire creativity this summer with Make Play Do Art Club. These engaging sessions give young artists the opportunity to explore ideas, develop their skills and create their own work in a supportive, small-group environment. Choose from Zine Club and Sketchbook Club morning and afternoon sessions, with all materials provided. Places are limited, so booking is essential.
Where: Chesham. When: 3rd–7th August and 10th–14th August, 9am-3.30pm Ages: 8-13 years. To book: Visit �� makeplaydo.com for full details.
Pudding and Pie Cookery and Craft Sessions
Put your apron on and get ready to mix, bake and create! Pudding and Pie cookery and craft sessions offer a hands-on, fun-filled experience where children can learn simple recipes, get creative and enjoy making together in a relaxed and supportive environment. Where: Winchmore Hill, Coleshill and Chalfont St. Giles Ages: 4–11 years. Sessions: 4-hour sessions, (all equipment is provided.) To book: jayde@ puddingandpie.org.uk or call: 07341 931121.
Summer Camps
Packed & Ready! Holiday Camp Essentials
By Tanni Haas
You’ve found a great camp for your kids, signed them up and are getting them ready for all the fun ahead. But what should you pack for them every day? Drawing on my own experiences as a seasoned parent of day campers, I’ve compiled the following list of things.
Lightweight Bag
Buy a lightweight yet durable and roomy bag pack, made of fabric or nylon. It’s useful if it has many compartments, so that you can put different items in different places, including an outside pocket for the water bottle.
Hat, Sunglasses and Sunscreen
If they’re spending much or all of the day outside, shades and a hat will keep them cool and comfortable. Teach your kids how to apply sunscreen properly without getting it in their eyes, ears or mouth. Apply it in the morning before they leave and encourage them to reapply during the day.
Food and Snacks
Pack one or two sandwiches and some healthy snacks in case they get hungry before and/or after lunch. Put all the food in a thermal bag so that it stays cool and fresh all day.
Hand Sanitiser and Wet Wipes
Let’s face it: kids get dirty, especially if they’re spending a lot of time outside. Pack some hand sanitiser and wet wipes and instruct them on how to use them properly and frequently.
Plastic or Ziploc Bags
Pack a couple of plastic bags or, even better, Ziploc bags –great for any wet items like swimsuits or towels.
Medication
If your kids are young, give the camp organisers any prescription medication they need. Older kids may be happy to carry the medication themselves, (if allowed).
Swimming
Gear
Many day camps include trips to the pool or other ‘wet’ activities. Always have swimming gear packed.
Water Bottle
Pack a reusable water bottle, ideally in an easily accessible compartment. Put the bottle in the freezer overnight.
Hoody or Light Rain Jacket
It can get chilly – and, of course, it may rain. Pack a lightweight windbreaker or a hoody, depending on the weather forecast.
… and a Little Surprise
Put a little surprise item (a favourite snack or an I-love-you note) in a place where you know your kids will look, like in their lunch box. It’ll put a smile on their faces and ensure they have a great day.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at The City University of New York.
Try Family Camp This Year
Family camps typically offer residential accommodation in cabins or tents, with sports, crafts or outdoor activities for all; including aunts and uncles, cousins and grandparents too! They’re great places to wake up together to a day of fun activities with no tight schedules, worries or distractions.
What to Expect:
A wide range of activities for all interests and abilities and a no-electronic device policy – perfect for focusing on enjoying each other’s company.
Making it Work: Top Tips
Plan your extended family break together as a group. Think about the best time for all of you to go away and talk about the kinds of activities that you all would enjoy. Agree ahead on how mealtime shopping and prepping will work.
Factor in ‘me’ time for family members who are less gungho or need a quieter adult break.
Finally, look for a family camp that you can all afford and get to without too much trouble.
Turning Summer into a Season of Reading
As the summer holidays approach, many parents start thinking about how they will keep their children busy, productive and entertained. Some may also be concerned about the ‘summer slide’ – the progress lost during the holidays, which teachers report can be around a month, particularly if children are not regularly keeping up skills such as reading. For this reason, reading should be an essential part of any summer activity plan.
Here are some simple and effective ways by Erin Miller to encourage reading over the summer.
In the first few days of the holiday, visit your local library and (re)introduce your child to the children’s section. Try to make this a weekly habit so it becomes a familiar and enjoyable routine. While you’re there, check to see whether the library is running any summer activities for children such as the annual Summer Reading Challenge (see details on page 3), as these can be motivating and make reading feel more social and engaging. Developing this habit early also helps children feel confident using libraries later in life, whether in school, university or the wider community.
Another tip is setting a reading target with rewards, which can be especially helpful for reluctant readers. Even a small incentive can be a useful starting point. Make sure the target is realistic so your child can achieve it and feel a sense of pride. This could be as simple as reading one chapter book in August or reading for twenty minutes each day.
Reading to Learn
Reading isn’t just about learning to read; it’s about reading to learn. It’s useful to recognise and exploit all the reading your child does, not just when they are curled up with a book.
Take every opportunity to encourage reading in everyday situations, whether that’s street signs, information boards, menus, recipes, adverts or food packaging. These small moments all help build confidence and fluency.
The key role for parents is to check understanding. Children can often decode words and read them aloud without fully understanding what they have read, so asking simple questions and discussing meaning is essential. If your child has an interest in another subject, such as math’s, consider buying workbooks. Look for problemsolving activities that include written questions, as these encourage them to engage with reading while doing something they already enjoy.
Reading ability supports success across all subjects. By doing the above, you will be helping ensure that your child is not only learning to read but also able to read to learn.
Encouraging your child to read a book series is another easy win. Once they are hooked on a set of books, there’s no need to keep searching for what to read next. For younger readers, popular series such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The Worst Witch or Horrid Henry can be great starting points, while older children might enjoy Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games trilogy or Harry Potter.
You could also refresh or redecorate your child’s bookshelf by donating old books and picking up new ones from charity shops. This can become a fun, creative project, perhaps involving painting or reorganising the space, which helps make reading feel more exciting. It also keeps your child’s reading material fresh and engaging without being expensive.
Finally, try to maintain or re-establish bedtime reading routines. Lighter evenings can make bedtime more challenging, so keeping reading as part of the routine is even more important.
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
Do Audiobooks Count?
Long summer car journeys provide a great opportunity to engage with books in a different way. While travelling, try listening to audiobooks as a family. Sharing the experience and discussing the story together can have a strong impact on your child’s interest in reading. Starting a free trial with a service like Audible over the summer can be an easy way to begin.
As a teacher, I am often met with scepticism from parents when I suggest audiobooks. While they may not support decoding skills as directly as reading print, they are highly valuable for developing a love of stories, which is especially important for reluctant readers.
Listening to stories also helps build vocabulary and background knowledge and studies have shown that strong background knowledge can compensate for weaker reading ability. It’s not just about sounding out words but about understanding and making meaning from what is read.
Finally, listening itself is an important skill that is often overlooked, so audiobooks can play a valuable role in your child’s overall literacy development.
Great Reads for Young Bookworms
Looking for the best books for your family reading this summer? There’s nothing better than sharing stories and there’s a book out there for everyone! Here are Sarah Campbell from Parrot Street Book Club’s top picks.
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion by Abiloa Bello Ages 5-8.
The first in a thrilling series of illustrated chapter books, this story takes readers on a wildlife adventure to Ethiopia, where twins Misha and Ziggy put their extraordinary animal powers to the test. Misha can speak to animals and Ziggy can shapeshift into them, but when the legendary Black Lion goes missing, can they keep the whole jungle safe from harm?
Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower by Nathanel Lessore Ages 5-8
Mystery and adventure combine in a story about being extraordinary. Everyone else in Sara’s hometown has been granted extra special powers by a mysterious treasure – but not Sara. She can’t even levitate a squirrel! When the school football trophy is stolen, it falls to Sara to find it and maybe, just maybe, she will discover her super skills in the process.
This is a story about an extraordinary friendship. When Rhys moves to London to live with his estranged dad, he decides to keep secret the lost black Labrador he has adopted – but looking after a secret dog is anything but easy!
Told with heart and empathy, Rhys’s story is perfect for reading together as a family.
With children being snatched off the streets of London, Cassia Thorne and her friends set out to investigate and rescue them before it’s too late. The inspiring lead character, magic, mystery and adventure will have you on the edge of your seats!
Guiding the next generation of boys and girls!
Saturday 26th September
My Dog by Olivia Wakefield Ages 8-12.
Deep Dark by Zohra Nabi Ages 8-12.
Learning Beyond The Classroom
By Zuzu Jordan
Some of the richest and most memorable learning happens beyond the classroom. While some children enjoy the structure of desks, carpet sessions and a teacher at the front, every child gains from opportunities to explore, move, talk, question and experience the world around them.
Furthermore, learning certainly does not have to stop when the school day ends. When children are given the chance to learn through life, nature, play and hands-on experiences, they often develop confidence, curiosity and a deeper understanding of what they are discovering.
The long summer holiday is the perfect time to experience education anywhere. A walk to the park, a trip to the supermarket, baking in the kitchen or helping to wash the car can all build valuable skills. When children are relaxed and engaged, they often absorb more than we realise. They are noticing, questioning, comparing, solving problems and making sense of the world around them.
Outdoor learning is a wonderful example of this. Many schools now use Forest School approaches to give children hands-on opportunities in natural spaces. In a woodland or garden, children can identify plants, compare leaves, search for minibeasts, spot seasonal change and talk about weather, habitats and growth. Physical development is supported through climbing, balancing and lifting. Language grows through conversation and storytelling. Maths appears naturally, as children count sticks, sort stones, measure puddles or notice patterns in petals and bark.
Some families enjoy creating themed weeks during the holidays and this can be a brilliant way to immerse children in a topic.
One week might be all about volcanoes. You could visit a museum together, get them to write to a volcanologist, build a volcano at home, read related books and create fact files or drawings inspired by what they have learned. This immersive approach allows children to deep dive into
a subject and make links between reading, writing, speaking, science, art and research in a way that feels exciting rather than forced.
Learning beyond the classroom feels purposeful. Children can see why they are doing something. Reading a recipe helps make lunch. Counting coins matters because they are buying an ice cream. Writing a list is important because the family needs to remember what to pack. These ordinary moments help children build confidence because the learning is immediate, useful and enjoyable.
We must also remember that life skills are an important part of learning outside the classroom. How do you catch a bus or a train? How do you read a timetable, buy a ticket and know when to get off? How do you plan a meal, shop for the ingredients and then cook it safely? These experiences involve reading, sequencing, money skills, problem solving and independence. They also help children feel more capable in the world around them.
Children do not need expensive days out or perfectly planned activities. Some of the richest learning comes from simple, everyday routines. Gardening teaches patience, care and life cycles. Building a den develops teamwork, creativity and perseverance. A journey on public transport can spark conversations about directions, maps, numbers and the wider community.
Perhaps the most important thing adults can do is slow down and notice the learning already happening. Ask open questions. Wonder aloud. Give children time to think. Follow their interests, even if they seem small. When we value learning everywhere, children begin to see themselves as capable learners everywhere too.
Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
Family Nature Discovery Days
www.field-studies-council.org/families
Fresh Ways to Prepare Kids For September
By Ellie Malt
Whether your child is starting school for the very first time or moving somewhere new, preparation isn’t about getting everything perfect, it’s about helping them feel secure.
Advice about uniforms, routines and packed lunches is familiar; however, there are some less obvious ways parents can help their children feel ready for change.
Starting School for the First Time:
Practice ‘Micro-Independence’
Rather than focusing only on big milestones like using the toilet or writing their name, build independence in small, everyday ways. Encourage your child to open snack packets, put on their own coat or ask for help from an adult. These tiny victories make a big difference in a classroom.
Talk about Feelings in Advance
Instead of only emphasising excitement, gently introduce the idea that it’s okay to feel nervous, shy or even a bit cross. Giving children language for these emotions helps them cope when they arise.
Create a ‘Goodbye Ritual’
Ritual can be a powerful tool in helping children feel secure at the start of the day. A predictable routine such as a special phrase, a quick hug, a high-five or a wave at the window helps create a clear and reassuring transition between home and school. The key is consistency, so your child can rely on it. Over time, this small moment of connection builds emotional security and can significantly reduce separation anxiety.
Build Stamina for the School Day
School is tiring. In the weeks before term, gradually introduce longer periods of activity followed by rest, mirroring the rhythm of a school day. This helps avoid overwhelm in those first few weeks.
Use Stories to Rehearse Scenarios
Use books and role play games to explore situations like making friends, asking to go to the toilet or what happens if something goes wrong. Children absorb these scripts naturally through play.
Moving to a New School:
Focus on Continuity
Help your child identify what will stay the same - their interests, favourite hobbies, family routines. This reinforces the idea that school is just one part of their life and not the be all and end all, making the transition feel less like a complete upheaval.
Make the Unfamiliar Feel Familiar
Walk or drive the route to school as practice and look at photos of it online. Even small details like knowing where the toilets are can reduce first-day anxiety. It’s tempting to tell children everything at once, but too much detail can increase anxiety. Offer information in small, manageable chunks and answer questions as they come.
Encourage ‘Bridge Friendships’
If your child knows even one person at the new school, help nurture that connection over the summer. Even if that friendship doesn’t last beyond the first few weeks, it can
be really helpful in calming those nerves in the build up to starting at the school and during those first days of term.
Make a Mini Break Plan
Keep expectations small by putting in place the ‘Just One Plan’: smile at one person, talk to one new person and learn one new name. Encourage your child to look out for games that are easy to join, such as football or tag, which naturally welcome new players. These simple strategies give children a sense of control and make break times feel far less daunting. Before term starts, help your child practice an easy ‘first hello’ such as: ‘Can I join in?’ or ‘What are you playing?’ so they have some words ready to fall back on.
Find your Tribe
Joining clubs can make a massive difference when children start a new school. It’s often easier to make new friends outside the classroom in an environment that’s more about having fun. Activities with other kids who have similar interests create a sense of belonging. Ultimately, it can help children settle more quickly by making them feel comfortable and connected.
Forget Rewards and Punishments ...
Try This Instead!
By Ross W. Greene
As a parent, you probably feel pretty saturated with guidance on how to handle your child when they behave badly.
You might read that children should experience more consequences or punishment, in response to bad behaviour. In my opinion, this is a good example of the adage: ‘For every problem there is a solution that is simple, neat and wrong.’
We’ve been Focused on the Wrong Thing Since... Forever
You may have been taught that consequences – especially in the form of rewards and punishments – are the answer to misbehaviour. Things like sticker charts, time-outs, grounding and privilege gain and loss. This approach misses the fact that concerning behaviour is almost always a sign of frustration or distress; your child is communicating that they’re finding it difficult to meet an expectation. Let’s call these expectations ‘unsolved problems.’ What parents and caregivers need to understand is that rewards and punishments don’t solve any of them. There is a more effective problem-solving process.
Unsolved Problems Arrive Early... Concerning Behaviour Arrives Later
Our obsession with behaviour sets us up to be reactive. This explains the popularity and ubiquity of interventions focused on what adults should do once a child is already becoming frustrated or has already exhibited a frustration response: co-regulate, de-escalate, send them to the calming corner or, for teenagers, restrain them, seclude them or, if bad behaviour happens at school, give them a detention, suspend or expel them.
If a child is exhibiting concerning behaviour, there’s an unsolved problem that preceded it. If you identify and solve that problem proactively, it won’t continue to cause a frustration response. This will avoid you getting stuck in the heat of the moment dealing, yet again, with an old unsolved problem in the middle of the grocery store or in the car.
Problems can be Solved Collaboratively
Many parents believe it’s their job to ‘divine’ what’s making it hard for their child to meet a particular expectation and to ‘divine’ solutions, which are then imposed.
The bad news: we’re wrong a lot. The good news: kids are excellent problem-solving partners, if we’re open to it. Children have critical information to offer and often excellent solutions to suggest, once we adults get over ourselves and come to recognise that there is zero downside to involving kids in solving the problems that are affecting their lives.
Whether you’re a parent or educator, be sure to check out all the FREE resources on the website of the non-profit website Lives in the Balance (�� livesinthebalance.org).
Ross W. Greene (Ph.D.) is a clinical psychologist, originator of the evidence-based Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model and author of many books including the recently released The Kids Who Aren’t Okay: The Urgent Case for Reimagining Support, Belonging and Hope in Schools.
Collaborative Problem
Solving
Step One: Empathy. This is where caregivers gather information from a child about what’s making it hard for them to meet a particular expectation.
I’m often asked: ‘What make you think the child knows?’ My pat answer: thirty-five years of asking. I’m also frequently asked: ‘What if the child is non- or minimallyspeaking?’ The answer: they can always be engaged in the problem-solving process, in one way or another. Meet them where they’re at. Listen to them. Earn back their faith. Tightening the vice grip won’t do it.
Step Two: Define Adult Concerns. This step is where caregivers tell a child why they feel it’s important that an expectation be met.
Step Three: The Invitation This is where a child and their caregiver agree on a solution that addresses the concerns of both parties. If the solution doesn’t address the concerns of both parties, it’s not going to work. Not for long anyway.
Celebrating Your Child’s AmazingAutistic Brain!
We all want our children to feel good about who they are but for autistic children, that confidence doesn’t always come easily. One way we can support that is by understanding autism and the many amazing strengths it brings. Emily Snape explains.
As the parent of a neurodivergent child myself, I’ve seen just how powerful it can be when we begin to understand and celebrate how their brains work. Those moments where something small can feel overwhelming but also the incredible focus, honesty and creativity that come with it. By noticing both sides, we can help our children do the same.
Your child might notice tiny details that others miss. They might have a brilliant memory, a deep passion for the things they love or a wonderfully creative way of thinking. They might be full of energy, honesty, curiosity or kindness. These are not small things - they are real strengths. But children don’t always see this in themselves, especially if they’re often hearing about what they find tricky. That’s where you can really help.
Try to spot and gently name your child’s strengths in everyday moments. You might say: ‘I love how you noticed that’ or ‘You worked so hard on that, your brain is amazing.’ Such repeated small comments help your child begin to recognise their own abilities. It can also help to reframe challenges. A child who feels overwhelmed by noise might also have a very sensitive and aware brain. A child who talks a lot about their favourite topic might have a fantastic ability
Simple Ways to Help your Child See their Strengths
Helping your child recognise their strengths can happen through small, every day moments
Notice and name your child’s strengths in everyday situations.
Create a ‘My Strengths’ space at home with drawings, photos or notes.
Share your own strengths and challenges to normalise differences;
Keep encouragement gentle and consistent.
Over time, your child begins to believe these things about themselves and builds a stronger sense of confidence.
Did you know? Autistic brains actually process the world with a richness of observation and sensory detail that many neurotypical people miss entirely. This intense, sometimes hyper-focused depth of attention is the root of many autistic strengths.
to learn and share information. By shifting the way we talk about these moments, we help our children see the full picture.
Encourage your child to follow what they love. Their interests are where confidence grows and where they feel most themselves. Invite them to reflect on what they enjoy and what they’re good at. Simple questions like: ‘What made you feel proud today?’ can build self-awareness over time. You can also model self-acceptance by celebrating differences in everyday life. Read books together that show diverse minds, talk openly about feelings and highlight role models who think in unique ways. Invite your child to teach you about their interests so you share a connection. Most importantly, remind your child often: there is no one else in the world quite like them. When they begin to see that for themselves, it can change everything.
Emily Snape is the author of My Amazing Autistic Brain and My Amazing ADHD Brain (Summersdale). She is passionate about helping children understand and celebrate how their brains work.
Keeping your Family Safe & Healthy this Summer
By Dr Tom York
As the weather gets warmer, you and your family are likely to be spending more time outside. Outdoor activities can be a lot of fun but it’s important that you’re prepared and take certain precautions to keep your family safe.
Here are my tips for staying safe this summer.
Be Careful around Open Waters
Water starts to appear more and more inviting as the weather gets warmer. Whether you take your family kayaking on a lake, for a dip in the sea or simply for a riverside walk, the dangers of open water should not be overlooked. In 2025 there were 202 deaths from accidental drowning in the UK, and almost one third of these were from people falling in the water unintentionally. The best way to prevent this is to never leave your children unsupervised when in and around water, teach them about the dangers of water and start taking them to swimming lessons from a young age. Always ensure they wear buoyancy aids if necessary.
Watch Out for Open Windows
Every year thousands of children in the UK are seriously injured, or die, from falling out of open windows. If you
open a window to keep the house cool, remember to consider if there’s any chance at all your child might be able climb up to the windowsill and fall out. Children can be surprisingly ingenious when it comes to exploring and you may not consider that they’d be able to effectively rearrange the furniture until it’s too late. If in doubt, install a window guard, but be aware that this isn’t a substitute for close supervision as children have been known to climb over these as well.
Set Up a Safe Barbeque Area
It won’t be long before the aromas of flame grilled food begin to fill the air. Barbecues are a great way to enjoy the brighter evenings but pose a risk to young children who decide they wish to play with the new contraption in the corner of the garden. Explain to your children the dangers of going close to the barbecue and that the person doing the cooking needs to have plenty of space to cook safely. Take extra care to keep children away from the barbecue – you could even arrange for another adult to keep them distracted with some garden games.
Prepare for British Weather
Going on a long family walk can be a great way to enjoy the warm weather but ensuring you’re well-prepared can make the difference between having fond memories and an afternoon you’d prefer to forget. Plan your route, take a map rather than relying on a phone, and take your phone too in case you need to call someone in an emergency. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks and make sure everyone has appropriate clothing and footwear. Consider taking waterproofs, a towel and even a survival blanket. We all know how changeable the British weather can be and children are especially susceptible to hypothermia should they be caught in an unexpected downpour or accidentally slip into water.
Beware of Biting Insects
With warm weather come a multitude of biting/stinging insects. Thankfully there’s nothing too dangerous in the UK but it still pays to be prepared. Insect repellent is a good first line of defence but antihistamines and antiitch cream are also useful. Piriton is fast acting and is safe to use in children. Eurax cream or its steroid-containing alternative Eurax Hc is good for reducing the itchiness and swelling following a sting. Bee stings are best removed by scraping them off with a fingernail or the edge of a credit card. Pinching the stinger to try and remove it causes more venom to be released so this should be avoided. Both wasp and bee stings should be washed with soap and water and then a cold pack should be applied to the skin. Watch out for any signs of allergy such as a rash, facial swelling or difficulty breathing, especially in children who may not have been stung before.
Dr Tom York is a NHS-registered and private GP.
Delicious & Healthy Lunches Kids will Love!
By Renee Kohley
Garden Party Quesadillas
(egg-free, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free)
Even the toughest little veggie critics in the house will fall in love with these ooey-gooey quesadillas!
There is something magical that happens to veggies when you roast them, as they become sweet with the caramelised sugars that naturally occur in the vegetables. Soft, easy-to-eat roasted vegetables, yummy cheese and a creamy, protein-packed bean spread make these quesadillas a well-rounded (and fun) lunch (or lunchbox) idea for any day of the week.
Makes 4 to 6 quesadillas (depending on the size of the tortillas; older children will eat one or two tortillas while younger children will eat half of a tortilla).
As there is quite a long list of ingredients, we have put these and the method for making them online. Just visit: bit.ly/ recipegpq or scan the QR code!
Five-ingredient fast-prep Chicken Nuggets
(dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free & soy-free)
Is it really this simple to make chicken nuggets? My goal in developing this recipe was to get you away from boxed or bagged frozen nuggets with mile-long lists of ingredients and I can promise these crispy nuggets will not disappoint. With a short ingredient list and a 5-minute prep, you’d never know these nuggets are baked instead of fried with their crispy exterior, juicy interior and amazing flavour!
Chicken nuggets will last three days in the refrigerator. To freeze the cooked chicken nuggets, cool them completely and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
This recipe also doubles perfectly - just use two baking sheets. Doubling will help with having enough leftovers from dinner to stash in your freezer for tomorrow’s lunch or a picnic.
Serve the nuggets with your kids’ favourite dipping sauce, such as ketchup or honey mustard.
Makes about 28 (1-inch [2.5-cm]) chicken nuggets
- 1 cup (55 g) gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
These recipes feature in The Little Lunchbox Cookbook by Renee Kohley and are reprinted with permission of Page Street Publishing Co. 2020.
Photo credit: Becky Winkler.
- Avocado or olive oil spray, as needed
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or unbleached parchment paper.
Put the breadcrumbs and sea salt in a gallon zip-top bag and shake to combine them. In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Set aside the breadcrumbs and egg.
Lightly pat the chicken dry and cut it into 1-inch (2.5-cm) pieces.
Transfer the chicken to the bowl with the egg and stir to combine, so that every piece of chicken is coated in egg.
Put the coated chicken pieces into the bag of breadcrumbs. Close the bag and shake it to coat the chicken in the crumbs.
Place the breaded chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
Spray the nuggets with the oil spray. Bake them for twenty minutes, until they are golden brown on top.
Place the cooked nuggets on a wire rack to cool.
Tip: If your kids like honey mustard to dip, simply stir up a 2:1 ratio of mustard to raw honey for an easy, fun sauce!dipping
Top Toys for Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor play is essential for children’s development. It not only provides a healthy break from indoor routines but also offers numerous benefits that contribute to their holistic growth. All of these toys have been reviewed by the Good Play Guide. Each guarantee fun while also helping children to learn and grow in different ways! Find more reviews online: goodplayguide.co.uk
Ollyball
A lightweight, inflatable ball perfect for the park, beach or garden. For added fun, children can colour in the unique cover, turning it into a personalised toy. Easy to pack and take anywhere, Ollyball guarantees lots of active play and fun for children of all ages. £16.
Spiro Hop
This innovative and awardwinning seesaw not only goes up and down but also spins 360°, with clever counterbalancing so kids of different weights can play together. Height-adjustable and with padded ball seats for comfort, it’s perfect for years of fun. £129.99.
Swingball
Classic Swingball is a great way to keep kids active without having to ask the neighbours for their ball back! With a tethered ball attached to a spiral head and sturdy base, the aim is to reach the top or bottom first. Complete with two lightweight bats, it’s perfect for competitive outdoor play. £29.99.
Reusable Water Balloons
With EcoSplat Reusable Water Balloons, kids (and adults!) can splash and play all afternoon - no refilling hassles, no tricky tying or rubbish to clean up. Encouraging physical and imaginative play, these fun balloons make water fights longer, mess-free and better for the planet! £14
Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail at Hughenden
Unleash your energy on a Pokémon adventure at Hughenden, celebrating the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Series.
Calling Pokémon fans new and old! Until 06 September, get active outdoors on our Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail. Team up as a family to search the gardens for each Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, and complete your own challenges. Are you ready for a mega adventure? Trail sheets will be available to collect on the day. Normal admission also applies (free for National Trust members).
Ages 4+
Ages 3+
Ages 4+
Ages 3+
What’s On
Fill your diary with these summer events and activities for all the family to enjoy.
With thanks to Claire LockieWilliams for compiling.
Daily to 1 November
THE SAXONS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Three lives. Three burial sites. Three extraordinary stories. Meet lifelike Saxon warriors, uncover glittering treasures, and explore incredible archaeological discoveries from across Buckinghamshire. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Daily to 6 September
POKEMON TCG MEGA EVOLUTION TRAIL AT HUGHENDEN
Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. Unleash your energy on a Pokémon adventure at Hughenden Manor this summer! 9am- 4.30pm. FREE with admission, (free for National Trust Members). nationaltrust.org.uk
Monday 1 June – Monday 31 August
NFTS CIRCUS THEMED EXHIBITION
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. There’s a 1930’s circus puppet exhibition by NFTS students for all visitors to admire! Included in the entrance fee. Book online at least 48-hrs in advance and enjoy 10% off the standard entry price. bekonscot.co.uk
Thursday 11 June – Friday 19 July
WORLD CUP CELEBRATION
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. To mark the Football World Cup celebrations this summer, explore an exclusive exhibition that walks you through the history of the game. Included in entrance fee. Book online, at least 48-hrs in advance and enjoy 10% off the standard entry price. bekonscot.co.uk
Saturday 28 June – 27 August
THE GREG CHAPMAN MAGIC SHOW
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Greg will delight audiences with brilliant shows at different times across selected days throughout the summer holidays. Included in the entrance fee. Book online, at least 48-hrs in advance and enjoy 10% off the standard entry price. bekonscot.co.uk
Friday 3 July
TOTS GO WILD
Black Park Country Park, Stoke Poges. A variety of activities for kids to go wild for with a weekly activity or craft. 1-5yrs, 10-11.30am. Fridays, term time. countyparks@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Saturday 4 July
FETE IN THE FIELD AND CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Bledlow Village Hall, Bucks. buckinghamshire.gov.uk
WOODROW’S SUMMER BIRTHDAY BASH!
Woodrow High House, Amersham. Woodrow’s 80th birthday. Meet a mermaid, play lawn games, try high ropes, archery (ages 6+), bushcraft (4+). Music, food & craft stalls. Noon-5pm. woodrowhighhouse.org
Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 July
AIR RAID SHELTER CAFÉ & TEA ROOMGRAND REOPENING Botley, Chesham.
Re-opening weekend with live performances, afternoon tea (pre-book) theairraidsheltercafeandtearoom.com
Sunday 5 July
MOVING THE MAIL
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Learn all about how the Travelling Post Office was an integral part of the railways! 10.30am-4pm. Book online bucksrailcentre.org
SILVERSTONE RACE SCREENING
Red Bull Technology Campus, Milton Keynes.
A live F1 Screening Event! Fans can watch a race alongside fellow supporters, enjoy themed food and drink and get up close to iconic Formula 1™ cars. 12+yrs. Pre-book tickets online. redbullracing.com
STEAM AND HERITAGE DIESEL TRAINS
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway.
Steam and Heritage Diesel train services between Chinnor and Princes Risborough. Sundays. chinnorrailway.co.uk
Tuesday 7 July
NATURE TOTS
College Lake Nature Reserve, nr Tring. Wildlife themed activities for tots! 2-4 yrs. 10.15-11.45am. bbowt.org.uk
Wednesday 8 July
STAY AND PLAY CAFE
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Pop in for a safe play space for under 5’s, free tea and coffee, meet other parents/ carers. £2 per child, adults free. discoverbucksmuseum.org
, with a free compass and prize (children must be accompanied by an adult for whom the garden entrance fee applies). Open daily 10am- 5.30pm. Check website for special events/activities. waterperrygardens.co.uk
A variety of activities for tots, families, home educators and children with SEND to go wild for. 1-10yrs. 10am12.30pm. Thursdays, term time. E: countyparks@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Thursday 9 July – Sunday 12 July
HORSES TRUST
Speen, Princes Risborough.
Support the Horses Trust by visiting their homeplace. Thurs-Suns. 1-4pm. Book tickets online: horsetrust.org.uk
Friday 10 July
FACTORY TOUR EXPERIENCE
Red Bull Technology Campus, Milton Keynes.
A fantastic family day out offering behind-the-scenes access to the home of Oracle Red Bull Racing. 12+yrs. Pre-book tickets. Also on 28th August. redbullracing.com
FOREST PLAY
Black Park Country Park, Wexham.
A shorter forest school session focused purely on free play. 1-5yrs. 1-2pm. Fridays, term time. E: countyparks@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
PONY VISITS
Two Oaks Pony Sanctuary, Berkhamsted. Support the sanctuary with a weekend visit. 2-4.30pm. Open most weekends. twooaksponysanctuary.wixsite.com
Saturday 11 July
MINIONS BRUNCH WITH KEVIN
The Honey Bee, Aylesbury. Magic Mouse theme entertainment and activities. 11am-1pm. Also 15th August. Buy tickets at: tickettailor.com
HATS OFF CHESHAM
High Street, Chesham. FREE community event. 12-6pm. visitchesham.org.uk
SUMMER FEST
High Street, Princes Risborough. 1-6pm. It features a man-made beach, live music, circus workshops, and food stalls. FREE annual street event. princesrisboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
Saturday 11 July – 6 September
BUTTERFLY ADVENTURES AT WATERPERRY GARDENS
Waterperry Gardens, Oxfordshire. Enjoy exploring the gardens, using directions and clues to find the handmade butterflies! £5.25 per child
Sunday 12 July
THE TEMPEST
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Shakespeare’s final masterpiece is brought to vivid, magical life in this new adaptation by Queens Park Arts Centre. Noon-2.30pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Tuesday 14 – Sunday 19 July
COLLEGE LAKE
Bulbourne, Tring. Outstanding Wildlife Centre. Open Tues-Suns. bbowt.org.uk
Friday 17 July – 31 August
NATHAN’S FARM
Little Chalfont. Fabulous family farm. Open daily. nathansfarm.co.uk
Saturday 18 July
ACCESSIVALE
Thomley, Worminghall. Thomley’s Accessible music festival for the whole community. 10am-9pm. thomley.org.uk
Saturday 18 July (Cont.)
LEE FLOWER SHOW
The Lee Cricket Ground, Manor Park. Family entertainment from 1.45pm. thelee.org.uk
Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 July
CLASSIC VEHICLES SHOW
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Admire a range of classic vehicles and listen to live music. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 19 July
MURDER ON THE OCEAN PRINCESS Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Step aboard the Ocean Princess. 7pm. bucksrailcentre.org
PRE-LOVED KIDS WEAR MARKET
Piddington Village Hall, High Wycombe. Shop high quality, pre-loved children’s clothes and accessories for 0-12 years. 9am-2pm. Register as a seller or prebook your free buyer ticket: thekidswearloop.co.uk
THE RAILWAY CHILDREN
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Presented by Paperback Theatre. 12pm and 2.30pm. Included in
Wednesday 22 July – Sunday 26 July
SUMMER OF PLAY AT WADDESDON Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Fabulous family fun at Waddesdon. Kids go FREE! 22nd–26th July: Animal Week! Animal-themed activities.
29th July–2nd August: Get active week! 5th–9th August: By the Seaside: pirates and mermaid themed arts and crafts. 12th –16th August: Circus Week! An unforgettable circus experience. 11am4pm.waddesdon.org.uk
Tuesday 21 July – 2 September
FANTASTIC FOXY SUMMER
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. A summer of fun based on Fantastic Mr Fox! Daily storytelling, themed paper crafts, court-yard games and
LEGO building, FREE with admission. Workshops available at an extra cost. 10am-4.30pm. roalddahlmuseum.org
Wednesday 22 July – 1 September
THE GREAT DRAGON ADVENTURE
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Set off on a thrilling Dragon Quest for an unforgettable family adventure. Children will love tracking the dragon, having fun with the hands-on challenges and exploring the Museum. Included in entry. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Thursday 23 – Friday 24 July
BOGGIS, BUNCE AND BEAN’S DIGGIMON MACHINES
The Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden. Channel your inner farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean to create a nifty digging vehicle out of junk materials. 5yrs+. More times. £5 per maker plus Museum entry. Also on 4th–7th August. roalddahlmuseum.org
Thursday 23 July – 1 September
SUMMER SIZZLER
Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Green. Visit the rare breeds farm complete with farmyard fun, water play and outdoor adventure play. Summer Sizzler passes are available to give unlimited access to
1 August - 31 August
Family tours
summer time Summer,
There is lots going on at Bekonscot over the summer holidays. Set in 1.5 acres of tranquil gardens, the village captures a snapshot of 1930s rural England. During your next visit: Save10% whenyoubook online 48 hrs in advance
Explore our nine model villages.
Watch the trains whizz along our Gauge 1 model railway. Ride on our 7¼” narrow gauge light railway.
Relax and enjoy tasty seasonal treats from our tearoom. Enjoy themed crafts mid-week during the school holidays.
To plan your next adventure visit: www.bekonscot.co.uk
Outdoor activity stations
Arts and crafts
bletchleypark.org.uk
Summer of Play at Waddesdon Manor
the farm park all 6 weeks of the summer holidays for just £38.40! oddsfarm.co.uk
Friday 24 July
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. An outrageous take on Shakespeare’s most magical comedy. 1pm- 2.30pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 July
HERITAGE CRAFTS WEEKEND
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. See demonstrations from a range of heritage crafts. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 26 July
TWELFTH NIGHT
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Shakespeare’s iconic comedy as you’ve never seen it before. 12pm- 2.30pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Sunday 26 July
DAY ROVER AND SPARKLING
AFTERNOON TEA
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway.
Day Rover ticket for all train services on
the day plus a sparkling Cream Tea on one service, pre-booking only. Also, 9th 23rd Aug. chinnorrailway.co.uk
EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Special community day. 10.30am-5pm. £7pp, u3’s drop-in FREE. All Emergency Services personnel get FREE ENTRY! bucksrailcentre.org
THE JUNGLE BOOK
Black Park Country Park, Stoke Poges. 3pm. Weekly during term time. Wildly entertaining theatre adaptation. countyparks@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Sunday 26 July – 6 September
SECRETS AND SPIES TRAIL
Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave.
Would you make a good spy? 4-11yrs, drop-in, 10am-4pm. wycombemuseum.org.uk
Monday 27 July – Tuesday 28 July
WHIZZ FEST
Hands-on activities across local libraries. Hickory, Dickory Dock. 3-8yrs. Aylesbury Library: Mon 27th July 11am & 2pm; Chesham Library: Tues 28th July, 10.30am and High Wycombe Library: Tues 28th July, 3pm. Book online: buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Tuesday 28 July
TERRIFIC TUESDAYS
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.
Themed family craft and activity days. U4’s free. Also, 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Aug. coam.org.uk
Wednesday 29 July
FAMILY NATURE DISCOVERY DAYS
Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. Drop in any time and join an expert learning team as they run a range of exciting nature-inspired activities for families. There’s pond dipping, helping kids discover an underwater world, sweep netting in our meadow or bug hunting at a minibeast hotel. 10.30am3pm. Also 4th , 6th , 10th & 12th August. Pre-book online: field-studies-council.org
BACKSTAGE PASS TO INNOVATION
Bekonscot Model Village and Railway
What’s On
Wednesday 29 July – 30 August
SUMMER HOLIDAY STEAMING DAYS
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Bring children to Steaming Days (not special event days) for just £1 each for steam train fun! 10.30am-5pm. See website for dates and booking. bucksrailcentre.org
Thursday 30 July
CONJOURING ON THE COBBLES Market Square, Aylesbury. 11am-3pm. FREE. aylesburytowncouncil.gov.uk
MARVELLOUS MINIS
The Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden. Why let the big kids have all the fun? 6 mths-4yrs. Also on 5th August. roalddahlmuseum.org
Friday 31 July
SWORD IN THE STONE Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Workshop and show- fun with the actors in a drama games workshop before the performance. 5-10yrs. 12.30pm workshop, 2pm show. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
August
Daily Summer Fun
EDEN SHOPPING CENTRE
High Wycombe
With over 100 stores, there’s something for everyone! Families can also enjoy Cineworld, Hollywood Bowl, TeamSport, Clip ’n Climb, Carnival Golf and Pirates Landing. edenshopping.co.uk
Saturday 1 August
WHIZZ FEST
Friars Square Shopping Centre,
Aylesbury. Creative family fun. buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Saturday 1 – Monday 31 August
SUMMER FAMILY FUN AT BLETCHLEY PARK
Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes is bursting with family adventure! Dive into history on a fast-paced interactive tour and discover the amazing people and machines that helped break the Enigma cipher at Bletchley Park during WW2. Get hands-on at art and craft workshops and try activity spots around the site inspired by how the Codebreakers spent their free time. bletchleypark.org.uk
Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 August
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF THE LIGHT RAILWAY
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Celebrating the Light Railway’s Silver Jubilee by running an intensive service using all four locomotives, the Tram, both passenger coaches and goods wagons. At the original price of 50p per ride! Book online, at least 48-hrs in advance and enjoy 10% off the standard entry price. bekonscot.co.uk
ROGUES AND HIGHWAYMEN
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Take your life in your hands travelling to the 18th century. Under 4’s FREE. coam.org.uk
Saturday 1– Sunday 2 August (Cont.)
THE SAXONS WEEKEND
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Step into the world of the Saxons this summer with a family-friendly weekend of live action, discovery & storytelling. discoverbucksmuseum.orgS
Sunday 2 August
DAY ROVER AND CREAM TEA IN A BOX
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway. Day Rover ticket for all train services plus a cream tea-in-a-box on one service, pre-booking only. Reduced fares for Seniors Day. Also on 4th Oct chinnorrailway.co.uk
Monday 3 – Thursday 7 August
SUMMER ART CLUBS
Make Play Do Art Club, Chesham. Engaging sessions for young artists. 8-13yrs. 9am-3.30pm. Also 10th-14th August. makeplaydo.com
Wednesday 5 August
EVERYWHERE’S A BEACH
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Charmingly ridiculous performance, taking place on a giant revolving beach parasol! 1pm and 3pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. A multi-period living history event with re-enactment displays. U4’yrs free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 9 August
MUSEUM DAY KIDS FOR £1
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. £1 per child to explore fascinating exhibits, interactive displays & historic locomotives! 10.30am–5pm. bucksrailcentre.org T
Tuesday 11 August
FANTASTIC FAMILY ANIMATION DAY: Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Create your own family stop-motion animation. 8-12yrs only. 10.30am-4pm. Pre-book online: roalddahlmuseum.org
AWESOME ANIMALS VILLAGE TRAIL
The Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden.
Guided walk around the village inspired by the wonderful creatures in Fantastic Mr Fox. 6+yrs. 11.45am& 2.15pm Also 18th August. roalddahlmuseum.org
Viking Raid: 30-31 August at COAM
Wednesday 12 August – 14 August
MR FOX’S LIVING LANDSCAPE
The Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.
Use natural materials (including some that grow!) to create a landscape in a container. 5+yrs. More timings. roalddahlmuseum.org
Wednesday 12 August
THE THREE MUSKETEERS
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. 2–4.15pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Friday 14 – Sunday 16 August
BUCKS CULTURE OPEN WEEKEND
2026 – ROOTS, RHYTHMS & RITUALS
Various locations in Buckinghamshire. Explore workshops, performances, exhibitions, heritage activities, storytelling, open studios and familyfriendly creative experiences. Some activities may require advance booking. Also 21st–23rd and 28th–30th Aug. buckinghamshireculture.org
Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 August
TUDOR MERRIMENT
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Dancing, music, firepower and Tudor life. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Saturday 15–Sunday 16 August (Cont.)
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS™
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. Hop onboard a train ride with Thomas, ride with either Percy or Mavis! 10.30am-5pm. bucksrailcentre.org
Tuesday 18 – Friday 21 August
CLAY FOXY FEAST
The Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden. 5+yrs. Also 25th–28th August. roalddahlmuseum.org
Saturday 22– Sunday 23 August
VICTORIAN WEEKEND
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Wednesday 26 August
TREASURE ISLAND
Waddesdon Manor, South Front. Join Long John Silver and his motley crew. 1–2.40pm. Included in admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Thursday 27 August
A FAMILY POETRY ADVENTURE
The Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden. Into the Woods with Poet Will Burns. 5+yrs. 10.30am and 1.30pm. roalddahlmuseum.org
Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 August
PARKLIFE WEEKEND
Aylesbury Vale Park. 12pm–9.30pm. Sat: Live in the Park. Sun: Battle of the Bands & Proms in the Park. aylesburytowncouncil.gov.uk
WHIZZ FEST
Eden Shopping Centre, High Wycombe. A relaxed, imaginative family weekend. buckinghamshire.gov.uk
