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Spring has sprung and so have the school holidays. If you’re finding it tricky to find affordable ways of keeping the kids busy during the coming weeks — we’re here to help!

The Salvos Moneycare team has assembled some tried and tested (and affordable) spring school holiday ideas. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Go out and about

‘Tis the season to enjoy the outdoors and there are so many ways for families to do so this spring. A hike along an easy trail, a picnic in the park, a trip to the beach, or a walk around your local neighbourhood to admire the flowers.

Spring is also an ideal time for a get-together with loved ones — host one in a local park or in your backyard, if you can. Encourage people to bring their own drinks and food so there are plenty of options and you don’t have to supply it all. These gatherings can be a simple but wonderful opportunity to make lasting memories, which is what the holidays are really about!

Make nature fun

Why not combine the beauty of springtime nature with some creative activities? Set up an outdoor treasure hunt where they follow clues that lead to goodies like edible treats, small toys, or stickers. Encourage your kids to draw or paint what they see outside, or collect some foliage and make a collage out of it. Spring spent outdoors can be energising for little (and big souls). Best of all — it’s free!

Make use of budget-friendly community activities

Just like our winter tips, local councils and libraries across Australia offer school holiday programs in spring with no and low-cost activities. Activities can include such fun and unique things as fishing (Melton, Victoria), drumming (Moreton Bay, Queensland), and hula hooping (Parramatta, New South Wales). Contact your local library or council to check out school holiday activities in your area that your kids might enjoy.

Libraries are also a great space for kids to relax in and enjoy a range of reading material and perhaps some video games too (depending on location).

Encourage the kids to garden

Spring is a great time for gardening and it’s worth getting the kids involved! Encourage them to find out what’s ready for planting (hint — local hardware stores have useful information on spring gardening, as well as a variety of plant and seed options to choose from). The kids can plant something they have selected, and care for it as they enjoy watching it grow.

If it’s flowers, the kids can then arrange them creatively in a vase or bouquet to present. Produce such as herbs, fruits or vegetables can be harvested and used to cook delicious meals.

School fetes and fairs

Spring is typically a busy time for outdoor community-based activities such as fairs, fetes and festivals. School fetes often have low-cost entry fees and are packed with activities and attractions to delight family members of all ages, such as rides, food, raffles, live performances and more. See what’s near you and spring into action!

Spring holidays can be fun, educational and budget-friendly with these simple tips. Happy holidays!