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As the leaves begin to fall and the nights draw in, many parents find themselves facing the question: what are we doing for autumn half-term? Whether you’re planning a short break, staying local, or juggling childcare and work, organising the October school break in advance can make all the difference. With a little planning and some clever hacks, half-term can feel more like a holiday and less like a juggling act.

Here’s how to prepare for a fun, smooth-running half-term – without the stress. If you want to save money along the way download Kids Pass today and save a fortune!

1. Plan Activities Early – But Keep It Flexible

Half-term creeps up quickly once the school year starts. If you’re hoping to book attractions, mini-breaks, or even just playdates, get ahead of the game. Some family favourites – pumpkin patches, woodland trails, Halloween events – get fully booked fast.

Top ideas to consider:

• Autumn nature walks and scavenger hunts
• Local heritage sites with family workshops
• Cosy cinema trips or at-home movie marathons
• Bake-off afternoons with seasonal recipes
• Simple craft sessions like leaf rubbings or pine cone painting

Pro tip: Create a loose weekly planner with options for both indoor and outdoor days. Flexibility is key with autumn weather.

2. Pack Smart for Autumn Adventures

Whether you’re staying overnight with relatives or heading away for a few days, autumn weather demands smart packing. Layers are your best friend – think waterproofs, warm fleeces, and extra socks.

Don’t forget:

• Reusable water bottles and flasks for warm drinks
• A small first aid kit – scratches and colds are common
• Puzzle books, card games or audiobooks for travel downtime
• Extra carrier bags (for muddy boots or damp clothes)

Bonus tip: Pack a designated “grab-and-go” rucksack with essentials like snacks, tissues, wipes and hand sanitiser – it’ll save you loads of faff each time you leave the house.

3. Balance Busy Days with Downtime

It’s easy to over-plan, especially when you want to make the most of limited time. But children (and parents!) need space to relax. Alternate busy days with slower ones and build in time for naps, free play or quiet reading.

Simple ways to create calm:

• Build a half-term den at home for cosy reading or screen time
• Try family yoga or stretching videos on rainy days
• Encourage journalling or drawing to reflect on daily activities

4. Use Tech to Stay Organised

Half-term can feel chaotic, especially for larger families. Use shared calendars, whiteboards, or apps like Cozi or FamCal to keep track of plans, packed lunches, or who’s going where and when.

Try this hack: Let older children add their own ideas or responsibilities to the plan – it gives them ownership and eases the mental load on parents.

5. Get Ahead on Food and Snacks

When everyone’s home, the kitchen becomes mission control. Avoid endless “I’m hungry” requests by prepping ahead. Batch cook a few easy meals, stock up on healthy snacks, and consider creating a snack drawer or box kids can help themselves from.

Meal ideas that work well:

• Slow-cooked curry or chilli that can be reheated
• Pasta sauces frozen in portions
• DIY sandwich or wrap stations

If you’re travelling, pre-portion snacks for the journey – think oat bars, chopped fruit, mini rice cakes or veggie crisps.

6. Make Space for Seasonal Joy

Autumn half-term is a special time – Halloween is approaching, nature is changing, and there’s a sense of cosy excitement in the air. Lean into the season with simple rituals:

• Decorate the house with autumn garlands or pumpkins
• Choose a seasonal family read or audiobook
• Toast marshmallows over a firepit or hob (safely!)
• Visit a local farm or orchard for apple or pumpkin picking

Making these moments part of your half-term traditions adds a layer of fun and connection, without needing to spend a fortune.

7. Prep for Back-to-School Before the Chaos Returns

Before the final weekend hits, do a quick stocktake:

• Are uniforms clean and labelled?
• Are PE kits, water bottles, and lunchboxes accounted for?
• Is homework done and reading signed off?
• Have you checked for costume or trip notices in school bags?

Doing this ahead of time means you can enjoy the final day of the break without Sunday night panic.

Final Thoughts

Half-term doesn’t have to be a stress-fest. With a mix of planning, flexibility, and a dash of seasonal fun, it can become a genuinely enjoyable family reset. Whether you’re off on an adventure or keeping things close to home, the key to success lies in striking a balance that works for your family.

So grab a cup of something warm, make your half-term list, and prepare to welcome the season with open arms.