October half-term always seems to sneak up on us. One day, you’re packing school lunches and trying to get everyone ready at the same time, the next you’re faced with a whole week of family time… and then the rain arrives. If you’re anything like me, the idea of being cooped up indoors with little ones climbing the walls is enough to make you wish for a tiny bit of that elusive autumn sunshine. But rainy days can be just as magical with the right activities up your sleeve.
So, if you’re staring down another damp October day, here are some fun, non-boring ideas to help keep spirits high (and screen time low). Plus, don’t forget to grab my FREE Woodland Animal Colouring Pages linked at the end. They’re a lifesaver when the kids need something quiet to do.
Explore Local Hidden Gems (Indoors, of Course)
Sometimes, cabin fever means you just need to get everyone out of the house, rain or not. Luckily, October half-term is prime time for local venues to put on family-friendly events. For example:
Tropical World in Leeds is having a Monkey Madness event this half-term (children dressed as monkeys get half-price entry!)
York Explore Libraries have some fantastic low-cost activities running across the libraries of York
These places often go the extra mile in October, adding spooky trails, craft corners, or themed snacks. Even if you’ve been before, half-term activities make it feel brand new. (Tip: Take lots of candid snaps of your kids having fun.)
Baking With a Twist
Yes, baking with kids can be messy. Yes, you will find flour everywhere for days after. But hear me out: half-term is the perfect time to let them take charge.
Instead of the usual fairy cakes, set them a “Great British Bake Off” style challenge with a Halloween or woodland theme. Think hedgehog cupcakes and pumpkin-shaped biscuits.
Not only do you end up with delicious treats, but it’s also an easy way to create fun photos for your family album. And if they lose interest halfway through? Hand them my woodland colouring pages that are linked below, while you finish the job in peace.
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Cosy Crafting That Doubles as Keepsakes
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to get crafty, and I don’t mean just sticking glitter on paper (though glitter is always welcome). How about creating some Autumn memory jars? Gather a few leaves, conkers, or pinecones from a quick dash outside, then add them to jars along with little notes about what your kids loved most about this season. They make such sweet keepsakes, and in years to come, you’ll laugh at the funny little details your children thought to write down.
Pair this with the Woodland Animal Colouring Pages, and you’ve got a whole afternoon of calm(ish) activities that will look lovely on the shelf afterwards.
Indoor Camping (With a Woodland Twist)
No tents in the rain? No problem. Clear some space in the living room, drape blankets over chairs, and create your own cosy den. Add fairy lights, a pile of cushions, and a few woodland stories (about owls, foxes, hedgehogs, etc). Finish it off by handing out my Woodland Animal Colouring Pages.
You can also include seasonal snacks, and try toasting marshmallows over the hob or a candle (carefully, of course). Suddenly, you’ve got the whole camping adventure without setting foot outside.
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A Little Salesy Bit (But You’ll Thank Me Later)
Here’s the thing about half-term: while the days can feel long, the years absolutely fly by. Those cheeky giggles, toothy grins, and sticky baking sessions? They don’t last forever. That’s where I come in. My Family Portrait Experiences are designed to capture the real moments, whether that’s cuddles or a playful tickle fight.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’d love photos that actually look like us,” October is the perfect time to book! Drop me a message if you’d like to find out more. I promise the session will feel fun and natural, not stiff or awkward.
Or if you fancy something a little different, this year I am running an Autumn Mini Family Session Day on Saturday 24th October, and booking is now open. Hop over to my Autumn Minis webpage for more info. Availability is limited, so please get in touch asap if you would like to book a slot.
Final Thoughts
October half-term doesn’t need to feel like a washout, even if the weather says otherwise. With a few creative ideas and a stash of printable colouring pages, you can keep little ones entertained, make some memories, and maybe even squeeze in a hot cuppa while they’re busy.
Don’t forget to download your FREE Woodland Animal Colouring Pages, perfect for rainy days, car journeys, or just five minutes of calm. Trust me, you’ll want them ready to go when the clouds roll in!
