Preparing for Summer Holidays with Toddlers in the UK

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Summer break is almost here! Grabe, I can’t believe it’s the last week of nursery for my eldest. Honestly, I have mixed emotions—excited kasi we get more time together, pero at the same time, iniisip ko na agad: “How do we survive six weeks with two toddlers at home?!” 😂

If you’re a parent in the UK, you know what I mean. British summers are beautiful, yes—but also unpredictable. One minute you’re in the garden enjoying the sun, next thing you know, umuulan na naman. So planning is key (or at least trying to plan… kasi alam mo naman, toddlers have their own schedule, right?).

So here’s how we’re preparing for summer—and maybe these tips can help you too:


1. Make a Simple Summer Plan

I’m not talking about strict schedules—kasi let’s be real, toddlers don’t follow them anyway. Pero having a rough plan helps avoid those “Anong gagawin natin ngayon?” moments.

Our ideas:
✔ Local park trips – Reading and Caversham have nice outdoor spots. Or maybe go to Henley-on-Thames
✔ Splash days – Maybe a small paddling pool in the garden or check out local splash pads.
✔ Mini day trips – Oxford or Windsor picnic? Both are just an hour away!


2. Be Ready for Rainy Days

UK weather loves surprises, so kailangan may Plan B:
✔ Arts and crafts – Always a hit for my eldest.
✔ Baking simple treats – She loves helping out (and tasting the icing).
✔ Soft play – Para makatakbo sila indoors, and kami makainom ng coffee in peace.


3. Pack a “Summer Survival Kit”

If we’re heading out, these are always in the bag:

  • Snacks and water (trust me, hungry toddlers = chaos)
  • Sunscreen and hats (kahit cloudy, minsan mas malakas ang araw)
  • Extra clothes (for those muddy adventures)

4. Keep It Simple

Honestly, hindi naman kailangan magpa-bongga. It’s not about fancy trips or expensive holidays. For us, it’s about small moments that matter—like running in the park, eating ice cream, or just chilling together at home.


So parents, how about you? Anong plano niyo this summer? Any tips on how to keep toddlers busy during the UK break? Share in the comments!

-Dadbuhay

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Hey! 👋

Welcome to DadBuhay, a personal blog by a Filipino dad sharing his experiences raising two daughters in the UK. The blog highlights the daily challenges and joys of parenting, juggling work and life, traveling with kids, and the unique moments of raising children in a multicultural environment. It aims to connect with fellow parents and OFWs by sharing authentic stories of love, chaos, and life abroad.


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