5 easy ways to beat school holiday boredom

It’s been a long old year thanks to the pandemic upending plans, limiting catch-ups and affecting ‘normal’ activities.

As we head into the holidays, we’ll all be grateful for what feels like a long-overdue break, but let’s be honest, we know that the chorus calls of “I’m bored!” are never far away, even when it’s beautiful and sunny outside!

Rest assured, there are some simple and fun ways that you can keep the kids amused during the upcoming summer holidays and most involve little-to-no brain power from you! Below, we’ve rounded up some ideas:

Take them to the movies

Aside from being one of the best places to stay cool this summer, a trip to the cinema is educational, fun, inspiring and, thanks to some great family deals and child tickets at HOYTS, it’s also an affordable activity for the whole family.

Not sure what to see? Here’s our pick of some of the best new kids’ movies showing at HOYTS this summer:

The War With Grandpa: this star-studded comedy features Marisa Tomei, Christopher Walken, Eugene Levy and Robert De Niro, as Grandpa, who’s moving in and ruffling feathers.

The Witches: based on Roald Dahl’s scary, hilarious and classic tale of a young boy who has a run in with real-life witches. You’ll all love and squeal in equal measure!

The Croods: A New Age: everyone’s favourite prehistoric family, voiced by Ryan Reynolds and Emma Stone, are back. And this time they have competition from another family! Watch it unfold on the big screen.

Dragon Rider: any dragon fans will adore this cute tale which brings together an unlikely trio of new friends to unite against an evil dragon-eating monster. OK, so this is one more for the kids than you, but the joy on their faces will be priceless!

Maya The Bee 3: The Golden Orb: this sweet animated tale focuses on Maya, a headstrong little bee, and her best friend Willi, who find themselves in a bug battle. Cute for little ones.

Wonder Woman 1984: featuring a kick-ass line-up of Kristen Wiig, Robin Wright and Gal Gadot, this action-filled flick will appeal to young and old. Cue lots of “was it really like that when you grew up, mum?” questions!

PSA: You can enjoy big screen entertainment at great value with HOYTS Rewards. Become a member for free, and unlock exclusive access to discounted movie tickets with saver and super saver sessions. HOYTS Rewards members can also unlock family ticket bundles for a family of three or family of four.

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Go on a (short) road trip

While overseas holidays are ultimately off the cards for some time, going on a short road trip can really help break things up. You don’t even necessarily need to pack a suitcase – simply choose a direction, put the kids in the car and take them somewhere an hour away for the day. There will be something new to do at a different destination, and apparently, a change is as good as a holiday…

Hold a cupcake decorating contest

There’s nothing kids love more than eating, so why not teach them how to bake? If you have two or more kids, make it exciting by getting them to decorate once the goods are ready to go. The end result will give them a sense of accomplishment and full tummies.

Build a fort inside

If the weather’s bad or you’re having a chilled day, rest assured there are still some things you can do from the comforts of your own home to keep the kids from tearing the place apart. Help them create a fort underneath the dining room table and fill it with books, puzzles and toys to keep them entertained. If you’re lucky, they might even nap inside.

Grow a small herb garden

Studies show that indoor plants can have a positive effect on mental health. Creating a garden with the kids is an ideal way to teach them the importance of caring for living things. Have them check on the plants’ progress every day and water each one.

Brought to you by HOYTS

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