School holidays are a time for children to relax, have fun and enjoy a break from their usual routines. Days out, family activities, holidays and more time at home can all make the school break exciting, but they can also make it more challenging to maintain healthy eating habits.
Without the structure of school days, many children have later breakfasts, irregular meal times, more snacks or more opportunities for treats. While this is a normal part of holiday life, maintaining a balanced approach where possible can help support children’s energy levels, growth and overall wellbeing.
Warmer weather and increased activity can also affect children’s nutritional needs. Spending more time outdoors, playing sports or being active on days out can increase fluid losses, making hydration particularly important. Encouraging children to drink regularly throughout the day can help support concentration, energy levels and general wellbeing.
Why School Holidays Can Affect Children’s Eating Habits
During term time, children often follow a consistent routine with set meal times, school lunches and regular snack breaks. Once the holidays begin, these habits can naturally change.
Later mornings may mean breakfast is skipped or delayed, while busy days out can lead to more meals being eaten on the go. At home, having easier access to snacks can also encourage children to graze throughout the day rather than sitting down for balanced meals.
Holiday treats, meals out and family occasions are all part of enjoying time together, and there is no need to remove these foods from a child’s diet. Instead, focusing on balance and variety most of the time can help children continue to get the nutrients they need while still enjoying their break.
It's also important to remember that not every family experiences the school holidays in the same way. For some, the loss of access to free school meals and increased food costs can make it more difficult to provide regular, nutritious meals during the break. This highlights the importance of raising awareness of holiday hunger and supporting families wherever possible.
Why Good Nutrition Still Matters During the Holidays
Children continue to grow and develop throughout the school holidays, meaning their bodies still need a variety of nutrients to support normal growth, energy and everyday health.
Rather than aiming for perfect eating habits every day, small consistent choices can help support children’s nutrition while allowing plenty of room for fun, flexibility and favourite foods.
Supporting Children’s Nutrition with Vitamins and Supplements
A varied and balanced diet should always be the foundation of children’s nutrition, but supplements can provide additional support when routines change or certain nutrients may not always be obtained from the diet.
Vitawell Kids Multivitamin Gummies provide essential vitamins including Vitamins A, B, C, D and E to support everyday nutritional needs and maintain energy levels. Vitawell Little Bones contain Calcium and Vitamin D, which contribute to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, while Vitawell Little Dreamers Gummies are designed to complement a healthy bedtime routine alongside a balanced lifestyle.
Simple Ways to Support Healthy Eating
Keep meals balanced
Try to include a variety of foods throughout the day, including fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, protein and healthy fats. This can help provide the nutrients children need to stay energised and active.
Make healthy snacks available
Keeping nutritious options such as fruit, yoghurt, vegetables or wholegrain snacks easily available can make balanced choices easier between meals.
Plan ahead for busy days
Days out and holidays can make regular eating more difficult. Packing healthy snacks and taking a refillable water bottle can help children stay fuelled and hydrated while on the go.
Encourage involvement with food
Getting children involved in preparing meals, choosing ingredients or helping with shopping can encourage curiosity around food and support positive eating habits.
Ultimately, school holidays are a time to enjoy family, have fun and make lasting memories. By focusing on balance rather than perfection, parents can help children build healthy habits while still enjoying treats, days out and all the excitement the holidays bring.