Summer ACTionism ideas for Children and Families
As a parent to three small people, I am well aware that the summer holidays can feel overwhelming - weeks stretching ahead with expensive day trips, costly activities, and societal pressure to keep children 'entertained'. But what if this summer could be different?
What if, instead of spending money on expensive attractions, you discovered the magic waiting right outside your front door, while also teaching your kids that they hold so much power to create positive changes where they live?
This summer presents a perfect opportunity to introduce your family to ACTionism - the art of finding your people through small, meaningful actions. It's about recognising that we all have the power to create positive change, starting with the most straightforward steps in our neighbourhoods.
The beauty of ACTionism lies in its accessibility. You don't need expensive equipment or grand plans. You simply need to begin.
When you start with one small action - whether it's picking up litter, planting flowers in forgotten corners, or sharing books or toys with neighbours - something remarkable happens. Your children see that change isn't something that happens to them, but something they can actively create.
These visible acts of care naturally draw others in. Neighbours become curious, other families want to join, and before you know it, you've not only connected more deeply with your children but also woven stronger threads in your community fabric.
The following simple actions cost little more than your time and attention, but offer rich rewards: deeper family bonds, stronger community connections and children who understand that positive change starts with them.
Ready to ACT?
1. Community Litter Pick
Begin on your own street or local park. Wear bright colours, and you'll often find neighbours joining in or asking how they can help. Check out this IG account for some child led inspiration - this young man is picking up 100 buits of litter for 100 days.
2. Guerrilla Gardening and DIY Seed Bombs
Plant flowers in neglected public spaces, tend to abandoned planters, or create seed bombs for wasteland areas. Children love getting their hands dirty. Check out this IG account for some inspiration And watch the below on how to make your own simple Seed Bombs at home.
3. Doorstep Repair Cafe
If you or your children enjoy taking things apart and fixing them, or sewing, then you could set up a stand on the drive/garden to fix/repair broken clothes. Others will notice and may bring their broken things or offer skills.
4. Free Little Book Library
Build and stock a small book exchange box. Perfect for involving children in carpentry and book sorting whilst creating a community gathering point. Lots on inspiration here
5. Chalk Art Messages
Create positive, weather-washable messages on pavements - "You're amazing!" or "Have a lovely day!" Kids love this, and it sparks conversations. Lots of ideas here
6. Community pantry shelf
Start with a small shelf outside your home for surplus food sharing. Others often contribute once they see it working. We love this account from @rosewoodandlovaine, who set up a community shelf outside her house to pass on joy and surplus stock from her kitchen business- so joyful!
7. Create your own Nature Trail
Make simple identification signs for local plants/wildlife or create a small nature scavenger hunt route for other families. The RHS has a great little guide to get your family started
8. Toy Swap driveway box
Put a box of toys on your drive and get the kids to make a sign offering them to neighbours to spark a little joy – many people make this a toy swap – take a toy, leave a toy for others. Children can also help organise and curate the collection.
9. Pavement Weeding
Clear weeds from pavement cracks and plant edges. Satisfying for kids and highly visible to potential collaborators who might join in! Take a look at what a simple first ACTion can lead to in your community courtesy of @mcrurbangardener!
10. Yarn/Wool Art
Why not create bunting for lamp posts or check out these knitted Post box toppers - Art naturally attracts curious helpers. Here’s a simple way we found on Instagram to get started!
@blooming_artists on IG has helped some of their 9-year-old students make simple Yarn art to hang on local trees and railings.
