Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Step Into May!
May is the perfect month to get your family moving. The lighter evenings and natural burst of spring energy make it ideal for heading outside together. It also marks National Walking Month, a UK-wide campaign led by the walking charity Living Streets that encourages people to build more walking into everyday life. At its heart is the idea that even small increases in walking can have a big impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, and how connected we feel to our communities.
Each May, people are encouraged to take one simple walking challenge and to discover new routes in their local area. And the best part? You don’t need expensive kit, special training, or hours of free time. You just need a pair of shoes and a bit of curiosity.
Why walking works for families
Walking fits easily into everyday life. It’s mostly free, flexible, and can be as short or as long as you need it to be. A walk doesn’t have to mean a big hike. It might be:
• A stroll to the park after school
• A loop around the local woods
• A weekend wander to somewhere new
The real magic is what happens along the way. Children don’t always need exercise to feel engaged – they need adventure.
Beaches, playgrounds, rivers, and even puddles turn a simple walk into something memorable. Add in the possibility of spotting ducks, climbing, or stopping for ice cream, and suddenly walking becomes something children want to do.
Make it fun
The secret to successful family walking is turning it into a game rather than a goal.
Try a colour hunt: who can spot five yellow things? Or a mini-beast mission in the grass. Add movement challenges like walking like a crab, hopping like a frog, or jumping like a frog.
Simple games work brilliantly too:
• Count how many dogs you see
• Spot the first bird
• Find something shaped like a heart
You could even create a family walking chart for May. Ten walks might earn a picnic, a special outing, or letting the kids choose a weekend treat.
Keep it realistic
For younger children, 1–2 miles is usually enough. Older children can often manage 2–5 miles comfortably, especially with breaks. Snacks can help, and it always works best to plan a destination – a park, café, or shop – so there’s something to look forward to.
Most importantly, let go of perfection. A short walk where everyone is laughing is far more valuable than a long one filled with complaints.
A royal route for inspiration
For families wanting a bigger adventure, England also has a growing coastal walking network known as the King Charles III England Coast Path. It stretches for thousands of miles around the country and is designed in sections, so walkers can dip in and out wherever they like, enjoying the beautiful coastline and the variety of landscapes along the way.
You don’t need to attempt the full route. Even a small stretch can feel like a mini seaside holiday, with beaches, wildlife, and fresh air built in.
Some parts are still being fully connected, but that only adds to its ‘choose your own adventure’ feel. Think of it as inspiration for future family days out rather than a single challenge to complete.
Find out more at: www.nationaltrail.co.uk/en_GB/trails/england-coast-path
For more information on National Walking Month visit: www.livingstreets.org.uk