Summer holiday childcare costs are expected to rise again this year, putting additional strain on families already struggling with rising prices for food, energy, and housing. Last year, parents were paying an average of £148 per week per child, totaling nearly £900 for the full six-week school break. This year, the charity Coram Family and Childcare warns that families will face even higher costs.
To help alleviate some of the financial burden, experts suggest several strategies to save on childcare expenses. One option is to explore available benefits and assistance programs. Turn2us.org.uk offers a benefits check for those seeking financial aid. Universal Credit recipients can now receive higher rates for childcare costs, up to £951 per month for one child and £1,630 per month for two children, and payments can be made up front for new job starters or those increasing their working hours. Additionally, tax-free childcare is available for working parents with children aged up to 11, or up to 16 for disabled children. The government will contribute £2 for every £8 paid to a childcare provider, but many families are not taking advantage of this opportunity.
Another option is to look into subsidized or low-cost holiday clubs and activities. The government’s Holiday Activities and Food scheme offers at least four weeks of holiday childcare and meals for children aged four and over who receive free school meals. Booking for an entire week can often result in a lower overall cost, and families are advised to consider clubs at schools their children do not attend, as they may be cheaper. Other organizations, such as the YMCA, churches, faith groups, youth centers, and libraries, also offer low-cost or free holiday clubs.
For children interested in trying new sports, various initiatives provide opportunities to participate at little or no cost. Spend over £30 at Aldi stores before the end of July, and you’ll receive a voucher allowing your child to book a free taster session of an Olympic or Paralympic sport. McDonald’s Fun Football Centres offer free kickabouts for children aged five to 11, and swimming sessions can be enjoyed for just £1 through the Kids For A Quid scheme at 150 UK pools. Cricket summer camps run by the TCA Foundation are available for £40 per week, or for free for children entitled to benefits-related school meals. Universities may also organize sports camps for children in their sports centers, often at affordable prices.
Childcare options extend beyond sports, with a variety of clubs and activities available for children of all interests. Websites like whatson4kids.co.uk, Club Hub, and Eventbrite are useful resources for finding holiday clubs, while local dance and acting schools may offer specialized programs. Drama clubs, coding clubs, and forest schools are among the many options available, giving children plenty of choices for their summer activities.
Residential stays are another option for children, allowing them to build independence while participating in fun activities. Companies like PGL offer day trips and residentials, and using the code KCTHREE, families can save 25% when booking trips for three or more children. Childcare vouchers received through tax-free childcare programs can also be used to cover the costs of these outings. The Outward Bound Trust provides trips for children starting at £549 for a five-day adventure, and the Adventure Fund aims to help cover costs for those in need. The National Citizen Service offers a five-day trip for older teens, providing work skills training and volunteering opportunities for just £95. Bursaries are available to cover the full cost for certain groups, including care leavers, children with disabilities, and those on free school meals or in families receiving Universal Credit. The charity Over The Wall also offers free camps for children with serious illnesses and their siblings.
Many families resort to sharing childcare responsibilities with other parents during the summer holidays. By taking turns looking after each other’s children, it becomes a more manageable task. Parents can also claim unpaid parental leave to dedicate more time to their children, although this may result in a loss of earnings. Additionally, grandparents who have not yet reached the state pension age can benefit financially by caring for children under 12.
One working mother, Jenny Hardman, from Preston, Lancashire, found an alternative solution to costly holiday camps for her two youngest children. Instead, she divided childcare duties with another mother and paid her older sons to look after their siblings, effectively halving her costs. Although not ideal, this option allowed Jenny to manage rising rent, food, and energy costs without sacrificing quality care for her children.
The summer holidays can be both a joyful and stressful time for families. Finding affordable childcare options is essential for parents who are already facing financial pressures. Through diligent research and utilizing available resources, families can make informed decisions to ensure their children’s safety, well-being, and enjoyment during the summer break.
