As the summer holidays approach, many parents are bracing themselves for the financial strain of keeping their children entertained. The cost of childcare alone can add up to over £1,000, and days out or activity camps can push the total even higher.
However, there are a variety of free classes available across the UK that can provide fun, educational, and physical activities without costing a penny. The good news is that families can access a range of opportunities, from sports coaching to arts and crafts. These initiatives are designed to offer children engaging and skill-building experiences while easing the financial burden on parents.
Free Football Coaching and More
According to McDonald’s, families can take advantage of free football coaching sessions for children aged 5-11. Running from March to July, the programme is open to children of all abilities and takes place at over 1,600 locations across the UK. Sessions are delivered by FA-qualified coaches, ensuring that children gain high-quality instruction.
With 10 weeks of football training available, parents can rest assured that their children will stay active and engaged throughout the summer, without the added expense of private coaching.
In addition to football, other sports camps are available to help children develop new skills. For instance, the Islington Council’s Summerversity programme offers free courses such as archery, football camps, and photography for teenagers and young adults.
While the programme is restricted to residents of the London borough, it’s worth checking with local councils to see if similar opportunities exist in other regions.
Additionally, in Waltham, Sporting Aid is running a free boxing camp for children aged 10-16. This camp takes place every Saturday at 12:00 pm at the Waltham Cross Playing Fields Car Park, offering a chance for young people to try boxing regardless of experience.
For those looking for a more creative option, the Vache Baroque music charity in St Giles offers a completely free summer camp from Monday, 18th August to Friday, 22nd August, for children aged 9-14. The camp includes a variety of activities such as singing, arts and crafts, and circus skills.
The charity even provides a hot meal for the children, making it an all-inclusive opportunity. Children can also take part in an optional performance with a professional orchestra in its summer circus-opera on Sunday, September 7th, adding an exciting, artistic dimension to their summer activities.
Financial Support for Parents
Childcare can be a significant financial burden, especially during the school holidays. For parents looking to save, there are several financial assistance schemes available. The government offers 30 hours of free childcare for parents of three and four-year-olds, provided they meet certain work and income requirements.
Additionally, working families and the self-employed can take advantage of tax-free childcare, where for every £8 parents contribute, the government adds £2.
For those with children under 20, some families can claim tax credits to help with childcare costs. Another useful option is childcare vouchers, which offer savings on tax and national insurance contributions.
These schemes are an excellent way to reduce the financial pressure of keeping children entertained during the summer, making these free classes even more accessible to families in need.
By taking advantage of free programmes like football coaching, summer camps, and financial support, parents can provide their children with enriching experiences while maintaining control over their budgets. These initiatives not only promote physical activity and skill development but also help children enjoy a fulfilling summer break without the cost.
