Gather as many parents/children/friends as you can. There should be a goal, which each team is protecting from getting wet (and one they are trying to get wet); when one of the goals has been soaked, you know you have won.7. Set up camp  Pitch camp in the back

with young children. Heat the oven to 210°C, then grease a baking tray. Sift 1 cup of flour into a bowl, add a generous pinch of salt. Meanwhile, combine 30g of melted butter, a splash of milk and a splash of water. Make a well in the centre of the flour

children. Send all of the younger set into one room – or preferably the garden – to devise and rehearse their performance. Ask for a theatrical 10-minute call before the performance. Inspiration should run wild, but if they are struggling, remind them

12 should be actively watched at all times.* Children should always sit face-forward on their sleds Never let them sled down a hill backwards or while standing, and make sure they don't go down the hill face-first, as this greatly increases the risk

to take home. In my experience, children are always happy with this thoughtful compromise, and parents can feel satisfied with their own responsible approach to an activity that will always be cherished as a wonderful childhood memory.Ingrid Thomas

1. Write your name or funny messages in the sand with shells2. Decorate sand-pies and sandcastles with different shaped shells3. Have a rock-pool ramble  Learn about the food chain of this natural aquarium so your child understands how it works: look at the different seaweeds, th...

by setting her up with an international pen pal. Over the age of three, the excitement of getting her very own letter in the post will be inspiration enough. If you have friends living overseas who have children of a similar age, this is the perfect way

. Turn it into a game, singing and dancing while you work like Mary Poppins, and your children will be surprisingly happy to help.2 Let’s decorateThe different spring festivals each have their own symbols, which you can use to decorate your home. Green

days; 11–17 years £158; 5–10 years £127; under-fives free. (Three- and four-day, and daily tickets also available). Extend your stay Stay at family-friendly Woolley Grange near Bath with activities for the children and babysitting and pampering for you

Britain’s beaches play host to a plethora of natural life, just waiting to be discovered by curious little beachcombers. While children adore exploring this stimulating habitat, there are a few considerations that should be taken into account