A guide for time-pressed, busy parents.
When it comes to holiday camps, most parents are looking for two things: somewhere safe and fun for their children to spend the day.
Of course, the activities should always keep them learning, growing and smiling from drop-off to pick-up.
With a lot of holiday camp providers in Manchester saying that they’re “offering more than just childcare”, how do you find the one that will provide a world of adventure, creativity and social connection? How do you know what’s worth your child’s time and your money?
Our tip: get a copy of the activity timetables and assess.
To help you, here are the top 10 holiday camp activities that are always a hit with the children. These are all tried, tested and loved by thousands of children who attended our holiday camps across the Greater Manchester area:
1. Creative Crafts
Craft activities are more than just glue and glitter. From designing superhero capes to building bug hotels, crafts foster imagination, improve fine motor skills and give children a real sense of achievement. Bonus: they come home with something they’re proud to show off.
2. Mad Science Experiments
Fizzing volcanoes, homemade slime and erupting rockets – science sessions are always a favourite. These hands-on experiments spark curiosity and teach real STEM concepts in a way that feels more like magic than school.
3. Multi-Sports Sessions
From dodgeball and football to rounders and basketball, sports sessions are a brilliant way to keep kids active, burn energy and build teamwork skills. Plus, it helps form healthy habits that last a lifetime.
4. Outdoor Play and Adventures
Nature walks, scavenger hunts and den building all help kids reconnect with the outdoors – a welcome break from screens and indoor routines. These kinds of activities are also great for promoting resilience, problem-solving and a sense of independence.
5. Water Games (No Pool Needed!)
While not every camp has a swimming pool, water play days still make a splash. Think sponge races, water balloon games and bubble-blowing contests. It’s a refreshing way to cool down and creates some of the best summer memories.
6. Cooking & Food Fun
Chopping fruits, making pancakes and waffles, or decorating biscuits can teach children life skills. Children learn how to use kitchen tools and food safety while having fun and trying new things.
7. Drama & Role Play
From putting on plays to acting out stories, drama sessions build confidence, communication and creativity. For shy children especially, drama can be a gentle way to express themselves in a supportive environment.
8. Themed Days
Pirate treasure hunts, dinosaur digs, space missions, themed days take children on immersive adventures without ever leaving the camp. These are often the most talked-about moments of the week and keep children excited to come back the next day.
9. Super Sessions
Bigger, bolder and bursting with WOW factor, Super Sessions like Laser Tag, Glow-in-the-Dark Dodgeball and Remote-Control Car Races are the standout highlights of the holiday. These premium experiences leave lasting impressions and turn a good camp into a great one.
10. Team Building Games
From problem-solving challenges to relay races, team games encourage collaboration, sportsmanship and friendship. They’re especially valuable in helping children settle into camp and feel like part of the group from day one.
What to Look for in a Camp
Finding a camp that offers a wide variety of these activities along with excellent staff, strong safety procedures, and a warm, welcoming environment should be at the top of your list.
It becomes difficult when you’re pressed for time.
At School of Play, we understand what busy families like yours need: flexible hours, easy online bookings, and most importantly, meaningful experiences for the children.
That’s why our commitment to you is simple: to give your children an enriching holiday camp experience, filled with fun and purposeful activities that don’t just fill the time.
Together with our team of qualified childcare professionals who always go above and beyond for the children and our OFSTED approved venues and programmes, we successfully execute one of the best holiday camps here in Greater Manchester.
Whether your child is sporty, shy, creative or curious, they’ll find their place at School of Play.
Ready to book your child’s next adventure?
Explore our upcoming camps and secure your spot at: https://schoolofplay.ipalbookings.com/
Let them play, learn and grow every school holiday, while you enjoy peace of mind knowing they’re in the very best hands