Half term is the perfect time to switch off, get away from the routine, enjoy some family time, and give the kids a break from screens and schoolbooks. But between beach days, pool sessions and exploring the local area, there’s also an opportunity to nurture their imagination. And with National Creativity Day coming up, it’s the ideal excuse to do just that. 

If your child loves to build, make, paint or perform, there are plenty of ways to keep them creatively entertained during your holiday at Waterside. From hands-on activities to local experiences and even a few clever things to pack in your suitcase, here are some ideas on how to spark their imagination while making the most of your time away.

Creative Adventures at Waterside

At Waterside, we believe holidays should be more than just relaxing (although, there’s plenty of that too!). They should be about trying new things (food, activities and more), making memories, spending quality time together, and giving children space to express themselves. We know how important it is to keep young minds engaged, especially during school holidays. Our parks offer a range of fun-filled, hands-on activities to let kids get creative and make lasting memories. Here’s how your little ones can get involved during your stay:

Kuddles with Kimi

One of the most loved activities among our younger guests, Kuddles with Kimi gives children the chance to make their very own cuddly companion! It’s a heart-warming experience where they choose, stuff and personalise their new soft toy, then take it home as a special reminder of their holiday.

Nature-Inspired Creativity

With the beach, countryside and wide-open spaces right on your doorstep, there’s endless inspiration in the great outdoors. Think sandcastle building, beach pebble mosaics, shell collecting, or making woodland creatures from leaves and twigs. Even a simple seaside sketchbook can turn a quiet moment for the adults into a creative adventure for the kids!

Kids’ Entertainment & Expression

From mini discos and dance-alongs to interactive family shows, our kids’ entertainment programmes often include chances for children to sing, move, and express themselves. It doesn’t matter if they’re up on stage or dancing in the crowd, it’s all about building confidence and having fun.

Explore Local Creative Spots

If you’re heading into Weymouth during your stay, why not add a visit to a local pottery painting café? There are a few dotted around town offering walk-in sessions where children (and adults!) can paint their own ceramics and have them glazed and fired. A lovely way to spend a rainy afternoon and take home a truly personal souvenir.

Creative Things to Pack

Want to keep the creativity flowing in your holiday home? Here are a few simple items parents can bring along to encourage imaginative play and creative downtime:

Sketchbooks & colouring supplies – perfect for beach scenes, wildlife spotting or rainy-day doodles.

Craft kits – travel-sized packs with beads, stickers, pipe cleaners or origami paper are compact and full of possibilities.

Story cubes or writing prompts – great for inspiring creative storytelling or a DIY holiday diary.

Building toys (like LEGO) – ideal for quiet time inside, and easily packed in a box or zip bag.

Disposable camera or instant print camera – let them become the family photographer for the week to help you remember your trip!

 

Celebrate National Creativity Day the Fun Way

This National Creativity Day, why not give your little ones the time, space and inspiration to express themselves in new ways? Whether they’re crafting, dancing, painting or building, a holiday at Waterside is the perfect place to let their imagination shine.

Ready to make something amazing together? Book your half-term or summer getaway now and enjoy a holiday filled with family fun, laughter, and creative memories.

 

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