When most people think about school holidays, summer usually gets all the attention.
Long days, beach trips and warm weather seem to have all the ingredients for a great holiday.
But after more than 20 years working with children, we’ve noticed something interesting.
Winter school holidays often bring out the very best in kids.
A lot of it comes down to the season itself. When the weather turns cold and wet, kids often spend more time indoors and have fewer chances to burn off energy, so getting out, moving and being around other kids can have an even bigger impact. Winter also tends to change the rhythm of family life a little. Things can feel a bit quieter, a bit slower, and that often gives children more room to settle in, open up and try things they might not usually go for.
Without the distractions of endless beach days, screens and packed social calendars, children tend to slow down, connect more deeply with others and become more willing to try something new.
It’s often during the winter holidays that we see friendships form between children who may never have met at school. We see children step into activities they wouldn’t normally choose and discover interests they didn’t know they had.
The child who spends most of the year focused on sport might decide to join a drama activity.
The child who usually sticks with their friendship group might strike up a conversation with someone new.
The child who is reluctant to try something unfamiliar might surprise themselves by jumping into a science challenge or outdoor adventure.
Winter has a way of encouraging children to engage differently.
There is also something to be said for keeping active during the cooler months. While it can be tempting to stay indoors, winter school holidays provide a valuable opportunity for children to keep moving, socialising and building confidence.
Research consistently shows that physical activity, social connection and positive experiences contribute significantly to children’s wellbeing. School holidays provide the perfect opportunity to tick all three boxes.
For parents, winter can also bring its own challenges. Finding engaging activities that get children out of the house and away from screens isn’t always easy. That’s why many families look for opportunities that combine fun, friendship and variety.
At Camp Blue, we’ve always believed that no two children are the same. Some children are looking for sport and adventure. Others are searching for creativity, friendship or the chance to explore something new.
That’s why choice sits at the heart of everything we do.
Because while winter may be cooler, it often creates some of the warmest memories of the year.
After all, school holidays aren’t just about filling time. They’re about creating experiences that children will remember long after the holidays have ended.
And winter might just be the season that does it best.
