The Best Holiday Activities for Kids Aged 5-12 in 2025
Educational and Fun Activities
Written by Chloe Brown
25 December 2024
đź•“ 10 min
Finding engaging and enriching holiday activities for children aged 5-12 can be a challenge, especially with the wide variety of options available. As parents and educators strive to keep children entertained and inspired during school breaks, selecting activities that combine fun with educational value becomes paramount. This guide highlights some of the best holiday activities for children in 2025, with a special focus on how Science of Sound is redefining the holiday experience with its unique offerings.
1. Science of Sound Holiday Camps
Science of Sound Holiday Camps are a standout choice for families looking to combine fun and education. These camps offer a variety of interactive activities centred around sound science, music, and technology. Children can participate in workshops where they build their own musical instruments, explore sound waves, or even code simple music visualisers. These activities not only make science accessible but also ignite curiosity and creativity. For younger children, facilitators incorporate hands-on activities like crafting water-glass harmonicas or experimenting with tuning forks to understand pitch and resonance. Older participants might explore more advanced topics, such as soundproofing techniques or the physics of echoes, all while having fun. Science of Sound ensures that every session is tailored to the age and skill level of the participants, making these camps a hit with children and parents alike.
Additionally, the camps provide opportunities for teamwork and collaboration. Group projects like constructing a giant sound wall or designing a soundproof box allow children to work together, share ideas, and learn from one another. This social aspect helps build confidence and communication skills, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Parents often praise these camps for their engaging content, professional facilitators, and the visible excitement in their children as they recount what they’ve learned.
2. Museum Adventures
London is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, making it an ideal destination for holiday learning adventures. The Science Museum, Natural History Museum, and Victoria and Albert Museum all offer tailored programmes for children during the holidays. These workshops often include hands-on exhibits, interactive storytelling sessions, and science demonstrations designed to captivate young minds.
The Science Museum, for instance, features engaging workshops that allow children to experiment with robotics, coding, and chemistry. One popular activity is “Mission to Mars,” where children can learn about space exploration by designing their own Mars rover. Meanwhile, the Natural History Museum hosts workshops such as “Dinosaur Detectives” and “Fossil Explorers,” where children can learn about prehistoric creatures and even handle real fossils. These museum adventures not only entertain but also inspire children to delve deeper into STEM subjects, making them an excellent choice for holiday activities.
Adding to the excitement, museums often feature temporary exhibits that align with current scientific advancements or historical themes, ensuring there’s always something new to explore. For example, children might marvel at interactive displays showcasing renewable energy innovations or participate in live demonstrations of chemical reactions. These immersive experiences help children connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
3. Outdoor Exploration Programmes
For families seeking activities that combine physical activity with learning, outdoor exploration programmes are a fantastic option. Many nature reserves and parks across the UK offer holiday programmes designed to teach children about ecology, conservation, and the environment. Activities might include guided nature walks, pond dipping, bug hunting, and birdwatching, all led by experienced educators who make learning about nature an exciting adventure. Kew Gardens, for example, offers “Plant Detectives,” a holiday programme where children can explore the world of plants, learn about pollination, and even plant their own seeds to take home. These activities encourage a sense of wonder about the natural world while teaching children the importance of environmental stewardship. Additionally, outdoor programmes provide an excellent opportunity for children to develop teamwork and observational skills, making them both enjoyable and educational.
Beyond the structured programmes, parents can enhance the experience by engaging in family-friendly activities such as treasure hunts or geocaching in local parks. These outings not only strengthen family bonds but also give children the chance to practise problem-solving and navigation skills in a fun, hands-on way. With so many options available, outdoor exploration remains a timeless and rewarding choice for holiday breaks.
4. Creative Arts and Science Fusion Workshops
Creative arts and science fusion workshops are another excellent option for holiday activities. These workshops combine artistic expression with scientific exploration, allowing children to learn through a multidisciplinary approach. Activities might include creating science-themed art, such as painting the solar system, designing their own lab coats, or building 3D models of molecules using craft materials. Science of Sound also offers unique workshops that integrate music and science. For example, children can participate in a “Sound and Sculpture” workshop where they design and build musical sculptures that produce sound through interaction. These workshops foster creativity and innovation, encouraging children to think outside the box and approach problems from multiple perspectives.
Parents often report that these workshops are particularly effective in engaging children who might not initially show interest in traditional science activities. By blending art and science, these sessions provide a well-rounded learning experience that appeals to a wide range of interests. The joy of creating something tangible combined with the discovery of underlying scientific principles ensures these workshops remain a holiday favourite
5. STEM Challenges and Competitions
STEM challenges and competitions are perfect for children who thrive on problem-solving and friendly competition. Many organisations, including Science of Sound, host holiday challenges where children can test their skills in areas such as engineering, coding, and design.
One popular challenge involves designing and building a musical instrument that can play a simple tune. Children are encouraged to experiment with different materials and techniques, learning about acoustics and engineering principles along the way. These challenges are not only fun but also highly rewarding, as they teach perseverance and critical thinking.
Competitions often culminate in a showcase or presentation, giving children the opportunity to display their creations and share their learning experiences with peers and family members. This not only builds confidence but also reinforces the importance of collaboration and communication. Additionally, prizes or recognition for innovative designs add an extra layer of motivation, making these challenges memorable and impactful. For parents and educators, STEM challenges offer a glimpse into the children’s interests and strengths, providing insights into potential career paths or areas for further development. The combination of hands-on learning and real-world applications ensures these activities remain a highlight of the holiday season.
Conclusion
Many organisations, including Science of Sound, host holiday challenges where children can test their skills in areas such as engineering, coding, and design. Activities might include guided nature walks, pond dipping, bug hunting, and birdwatching, all led by experienced educators who make learning about nature an exciting adventure. Holiday activities in 2025 offer an incredible range of opportunities for children aged 5-12 to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether it’s through hands-on experiments at Science of Sound Holiday Camps, educational museum visits, or creative fusion workshops, there’s something for every child to enjoy. By choosing activities that combine entertainment with education, parents can ensure their children make the most of their school breaks while developing skills and interests that will last a lifetime. Make 2025 a year to remember with these enriching holiday experiences!
If you’re looking for a way to inspire your child and set them up for a successful day, consider enrolling them in one of our Science of Sound party clubs. Designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning, our programmes provide the perfect balance of fun and education. Contact Us now to help your child start their day with excitement and discovery!
