10 Things To Do In Your Back Garden This Half Term (+BONUS)

Updated: 8.4.25

Worried about what to do with the kids this half term?

Outdoor activities are a fantastic way to keep kids entertained, active, and connected to nature. From soaking up vitamin D to learning about nature and staying physically healthy, the benefits of outdoor play are endless.

The best part? You don’t need to travel far. Your own garden or local park is bursting with opportunities for fun, free activities. So grab your wellies and get ready to make the most of the great outdoors this half term.

Here are 10 of our favourite back garden ideas your kids will absolutely love:

1. Go on a Bug Hunt

It might not be every parent's cup of tea, but kids are fascinated by insects! A bug hunt is the perfect way to teach them about different species, habitats, and life cycles.

Grab a magnifying glass and explore under rocks, in flower beds, and around tree trunks. Encourage your child to observe, draw, or take notes about what they find.

2. Plant Some Seeds

Introduce your child to the magic of gardening. Whether it's wildflowers, herbs, or strawberries, planting seeds teaches responsibility and patience while connecting them to nature.

Discuss the life cycle of plants, the importance of pollinators, and how to care for their growing garden.

3. Make a Homemade Bird Feeder

Crafty and rewarding! Making a bird feeder attracts all sorts of feathered friends and helps kids learn about local wildlife.

Use household items like toilet rolls, string, peanut butter, and birdseed to create simple feeders. Hang them near a window so they can birdwatch daily.

4. Camp Outdoors

Set up a tent in the garden and spend the night under the stars. Backyard camping brings the thrill of the wilderness with the convenience of home.

Tell stories, toast marshmallows, and listen to the sounds of the night—just remember the torch and extra blankets!

5. Have a Picnic

Transform lunchtime into an event with a picnic on the lawn. Get the kids involved in packing sandwiches, fruit, and snacks.

Use colourful blankets and reusable plates. Let them decorate paper place mats or create a mini picnic playlist to set the mood.

6. Go Stargazing

When the sun sets, stargazing turns your backyard into a wonderland. Grab a blanket and enjoy a hot drink while pointing out constellations or spotting shooting stars.

Introduce them to the planets, the phases of the moon, and myths behind different constellations.

Related: How to Get Your Child Interested in Astronomy

7. Build a Den

Unleash their imagination with a DIY den! Whether it’s built with sticks and leaves or sheets and pegs, kids will love making their own hideout.

It’s a perfect base for roleplay, quiet time, or even reading outdoors.

8. Start a Compost Heap

Teach kids about sustainability and the environment by creating a simple compost heap. Use food scraps, leaves, and cardboard to get started.

Explain how composting works and why it’s important for the planet.

9. Host an Outdoor Cinema Night

Bring movie magic outdoors! Use a projector and white sheet or a laptop on a garden table. Add bean bags, cushions, and fairy lights for extra ambience.

Pick a family favourite and don’t forget the popcorn.

10. Create a Treasure Hunt

End the week with an adventure-packed treasure hunt. Hide items around the garden and give kids clues or a map to follow.

For older kids, add riddles or physical challenges between stops. You could even turn it into a scavenger hunt with a checklist!

Treasure Hunt How-To:

• Step 1: Plan your route and choose hiding spots
• Step 2: Gather materials (toys, sweets, notes)
• Step 3: Write fun clues or riddles
• Step 4: Hide the treasures and test your route
• Step 5: Let the hunt begin!

Bonus Tip: Want more of a challenge? Try a themed scavenger hunt—like nature items, colours, or textures—for added fun.

FAQs

What age are these outdoor activities best suited for?

Most of these activities can be adapted for kids aged 3–12. You can scale the difficulty or involvement depending on your child’s age and interests.

What if it rains during half term?

No problem! Many of these activities (like den building, bird feeders, or seed planting) can be done indoors or under a sheltered porch. Just get creative with the space you have!

Do I need special equipment for these ideas?

Not at all. Most activities use items you already have at home—just bring some imagination and enthusiasm.

How do I encourage my child to get involved?

Let them take the lead! Involve them in planning, prepping, or setting up. Giving them ownership of the activity increases their engagement.

Are these ideas suitable for small gardens?

Absolutely. These activities work just as well in smaller spaces or even local parks. Just adjust the layout to fit your garden size.