IT can be all too easy to splash the cash to keep the children entertained during half-term.
But here are some bright ideas on how to leave the house and get into the great outdoors without the big costs . . .
GRUFFALO ADVENTURE: Head out to one of the special birthday trails at 26 forest sites across England which are celebrating the 25th anniversary of children’s favourite The Gruffalo. Each trail has five activity panels as well as sculptures and play areas.
You can pick up an accompanying trail pack for £4. Find trails at forestryengland.uk/gruffalo-party-trails.
GET THE INSECT BUG: Hunting for real- life mini beasts is always a winner with younger children.
Turn over old logs and piles of leaves to see how many different worms and bugs they can spot.
You can take an old jam jar and collect them to get a closer look before putting them safely back in their homes.
RUB UP: Arm yourself with a few crayons and some paper on a walk in nearby woods or the park. Then encourage your child to find leaves and other items to take rubbings of them. Tree bark and ferns work well.
SCAVENGER HUNT: At this time of year, you can also look for snow drops, daffodils, tree buds and other signs that spring is just around the corner. And make nature-spotting more fun for kids by creating a scavenger hunt.
You can create your own list or there is a free printable scavenger hunt at hobbycraft.co.uk.
WET WEATHER: Do not let a little drizzle put you off heading out.
Pull on some wellies and waterproofs and you will find that puddle jumping provides little kids with an afternoon’s worth of entertainment.
Take a bucket and spade and they will also have fun scooping up mud, water, leaves and just about anything else — before pouring it all back out.
STOCK up on beauty products with this nine-piece No7 gift set from Boots for £44.95. The products bought individually would cost £120.
SAVE: £75.05
SET the mood for a Valentine’s meal at home tonight with these heart-shaped tealights, £2.50 from George at Asda.
TAKE your snacks to work in this cheerful box, £2.50, new in at flying tiger.com.
MAKE a style statement with these silver boots, £160 from Dune at johnlewis.com. Or pick up a similar pair for £45 from Bonprix at freemans.com.
SAVE: £115
NAIL your tasks with this daily list pad, £6, from Tesco.
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