AS A dad to three boys, I know how tough the summer holidays can be with six weeks to fill with fun activities and it’s going to be even harder this year as it seems the recession is set to crunch family fun.

According to a new study from Kellogg’s, more than half (53 per ecnt) of parents will be slashing spend on their children this summer.

We’re set to spend 15 per cent less on summer activities, a cut of £41 per child from last year’s figure of £283.

Money is so tight one-in-three parents say their children will spend more time indoors over the holidays this year.

Family trips to the zoo and theme parks have been badly hit, with four-in-ten planned excursions put on ice.

Worryingly, parents are more likely to ditch family days out than cut back on computer games and satellite or cable TV subscriptions.

The research is worrying but there are lots of activities we can do as a family without breaking the bank.

Make the most of the great outdoors this summer and pledge to have fun with your family with this top ten: Go to the seaside – collect shells, write in the sand and jump the waves.

Make a den in the woods.

Head to your local park for a kick about and a picnic.

Get on your bike and burn some energy – pick a new route with the Kellogg’s cycle path planner.

Take advantage of the Government’s free swimming scheme – it’s free for under 16s and over 60s, so go with your grandparents.

Visit the Krispies Kitchen and follow the yummy recipes.

Play hide and seek with your friends.

Host a sleepover.

Plant sunflower seeds and have a growing competition with your brothers and sisters.

Create a collage using your favourite cereal – add dried fruit for texture and colour.

You can download this list from kelloggs.co.uk/whatson and stick it on your fridge as a reminder throughout the summer.

Have a great time.


Kyran Bracken