As a Headteacher, and a parent of two boys now entering adulthood, I often reflect on how quickly those childhood summers pass. With one son graduating and the other preparing for university, I find myself looking back on those ordinary moments that turned out to be the most meaningful: kicking a ball in the garden, turning the kitchen into chaos while cooking together, or sitting down as a family for a film night where we all took turns choosing what to watch.

At the time, these things felt small. But now, they’re everything.

Finding Balance: Fun, Freedom and a Little Bit of Learning

Summer should be a time to recharge. Children have worked hard, and they deserve the chance to unwind. But that doesn’t mean their minds have to switch off completely. In fact, the holidays offer a unique chance to support their growth in subtle, joyful ways.

Reading, for example, is one of the most powerful things your child can do. Whether they dive into novels, enjoy fact books or get stuck into comics, it all helps. Even reluctant readers can be drawn in by the right story, or by watching you read, too. Younger children especially love being read to, and there’s no age limit on the magic of a shared story.

Writing, too, can sneak into the holidays in creative ways. A summer diary, if approached playfully, can become a treasure. But writing doesn’t always have to look like schoolwork, building Lego and writing down the instructions, inventing games, making up menus for a pretend restaurant... it’s all literacy in disguise.

And then there’s conversation, arguably one of the richest tools we have as parents. Over dinner, a walk, or a drive, conversations about the news or what's happening in the world can help children shape opinions, ask questions, and understand differing views. As my sons have got older, these have turned into lively (and sometimes very spirited!) debates, anything to argue with their father!

It’s the Little Things

What I’ve learned, both as a parent and in school, is that we don’t need grand plans or jam-packed schedules to make a summer special. In fact, it’s often the unscheduled moments, a spontaneous picnic, getting muddy in the woods, or letting a bored afternoon turn into a new game, that bring the greatest joy.

Children benefit so much from time with their parents, not just doing, but being. That presence, especially in a world full of distractions and smartphones, matters more than anything else.

Looking Ahead

Come September, your child will return to school not only rested, but richer in experience, connection and confidence. And you might just have a few more memories to treasure, too.

If you'd like to find out how we help children grow in curiosity, confidence and compassion, both in and outside the classroom explore our Outdoor Learning pages, or get in touch with our Admissions Team.

Wishing you a summer filled with laughter, adventure, and a little bit of reading under a tree.