Shop these outfits here.

School holidays are in full swing and if our conversations amongst the parents at Hux HQ are anything to go by, parents everywhere are looking for fun ways to keep their kids entertained.

Specifically, we've been swapping ideas that are fun, low-cost and easy to recreate at home or close by. Some of the most memorable school holiday ideas happen when you slow down, get creative and simply, spend some quality time together.

If you have kinder or primary school-aged children, chances are you've tried some of these activities below already but it's about making these activities feel magical in new ways... Keep reading for a few simple ideas that make all the difference.

As Christopher Moore once wrote, 'Children see magic because they look for it.' Here's to helping them find it these school holidays.

Here are three low-cost school holiday ideas your little ones will love…

1. A Scavenger Hunt They'll Never Forget

Find a beautiful local park, beach, bushwalk or garden with plenty to discover. It’s all about the energy you bring - if they see how excited you are, they’ll naturally match it. 

Dress them in their favourite clothes (Hux, obviously), pack their favourite snacks and, if possible, be fully present in the adventure yourself. After all, these memories are for you too.

To keep them engaged, we recommend printing the scavenger hunt on paper in colour rather than using a phone. It’s a visual activity, and kids love physically ticking things off. Add some fun textas or stickers so they can celebrate each discovery. 

Here's a free printable scavenger hunt we found from the WA Nature Play website. 

And afterwards? We’re not suggesting bribery is the answer… but let’s be honest, a small reward at the end definitely doesn’t hurt.

Local Melbourne parents, our top pick for families right now is Cubbyhouse Canteen in Armadale. Nestled in a beautiful park with two playgrounds right on its doorstep, it's the kind of place where parents can actually relax while the kids do their thing. They've been around for over 13 years, and their gingerbread cookies with a side of good coffee? Chef's kiss. Check out their Instagram here.

Shop girls clothing here.

Shop all boys clothing here.

Shop girls clothing here.

2. Photography Competition (Then Print the Winning Photos)

Okay, as much as we all have a love-hate relationship with kids using screens? Kids in this generation love taking photos. It's going to be a huge part of their world, so why not make something magical out of it? Use it as a chance to learn, to create, and to look at everyday things through a creative lens.

In a world where we can take hundreds of photos a day and forget most of them by morning, there's something worth teaching kids about slowing down and making forever photos. Just like the good old days.

This isn't about creating content for social media. It's about teaching them the art of photography and making something worth printing and keeping forever.

Explain what makes a good photo: interesting backdrops, natural light, and joyful or unexpected facial expressions. Talk about capturing the really special moments, not just every moment. Get them to flick through some books or magazines before heading out for a bit of inspiration.

Then turn it into a competition. Kids love getting into character, so tell them it's a real photoshoot and that they need to think like a photographer.

 

Tip: if you have a camera they can safely use, or even a vintage one from Marketplace, even better.

We live in a world where content is created every single day, but how often do we actually teach kids about photography? Or print their photos? Don't let these little moments get lost in the cloud. Print them for fifteen cents per photo at Officeworks, stick them on the fridge, or frame them as a daily reminder of the joy you created together.

Tip: extend the activity further with some scrapbooking or a real life photo album. Remember those?

And if your little ones happen to be wearing Hux, we would love to see. Send us a DM.

3. Craft Activities (Our Pick: Birthday Cards)

Calming indoor activities are a must, especially if you're in a cooler climate right now. The world of crafts has had a huge comeback in recent years, so there are endless options in stores these days.

To save you from decision paralysis with screaming kids in tow, one activity we've been loving lately is making birthday cards. It takes time and will (hopefully) keep them entertained for a couple of hours. They'll also love the idea of creating personalised cards for friends and loved ones. And watch their eyes light up when the time comes to actually give them.

As a bonus, you'll be sorted for every kids birthday party for the rest of the year (sing Hallelujah, sing it to me). Because birthday cards are never cheap, and somehow always a last minute thought. These ones will be ready and waiting in the cupboard.

Tip: encourage them to think about the person they're making it for. What does that person love? What makes that person happy?

There are endless sticker and embellishment options if you want to go full bling, but sometimes less is more. Find some blank cards and envelopes and you're ready to go. We made ours using watercolour markers, which can be reused for future activities (also way less messy than paint pots.

Tip: this is a very visual activity, so sourcing some inspiration on Pinterest before you start will help get the creative juices flowing.

And remember, the activity is only part of the magic. Set the scene with their favourite music, a bowl of snacks, and a space that feels fun and inviting. Sometimes it's those little details that turn a simple afternoon into a lasting memory.

 

Seven years of primary school. Just 28 school holidays in their childhood. Make them count.

For the outfits worthy of these memories? Shop Huxbaby kids clothing here.