The Easter holidays are almost here and it’s the perfect time to plan fun activities with children. Covid-19 restrictions are easing but there are still measures in place. However, this doesn’t need to ruin your long weekend – with a bit of planning, there are still plenty of fun ways to spend time together.

Here are six ideas to try this Easter:

1. Set up an Easter egg hunt at home

A hunt for Easter eggs has become a tradition in many households. While large community hunts are off the cards this year, hiding away treats in your home and garden can be just as much fun for little ones. Pick up Easter-themed treats from your local shop – just remember where you’ve hidden them all!

If you have older children, cryptic clues that lead them to a pile of chocolatey treasure can get them thinking and keep them entertained for longer. If you need some inspiration, a Google search brings up lots of riddles to build a trail around your home.

2. Get creative with Easter arts and crafts

If you have a budding artist in your family, Easter crafts are a great way to spend a day. Think about the craft projects you used to do at school for some inspiration. How about an extravagant Easter bonnet competition or painting eggs with a colourful mix of paints?

Good Housekeeping has over 50 Easter craft ideas for you to explore, many of which you can do with everyday household items. Alternatively, many supermarkets and online stores sell craft activity packs that have everything you need for an Easter project.

3. Arrange a family picnic

The days are getting warmer and it’s expected that outdoor gatherings for up to six people or two households will be permitted by Easter. After months of social distancing, it’s a great opportunity to plan a picnic with friends or family you may not have been able to see.

Taking some outdoor play equipment, like bats and balls, can keep children entertained for hours. Your local playground may also be open, so it’s worth checking this too.

4. Visit your local National Trust property

National Trust houses remain closed, but most gardens are open and many of the Easter trails will also be going ahead this year from 29 March. The trails will take you around the beautiful gardens and natural areas of the properties as they start to come alive for spring. There is plenty of fun for young children along the way too, and, of course, the trail ends with a chocolate reward! You need to book in advance for many National Trust properties.

If there isn’t a National Trust property local to you, parks, reserves, and gardens are a great place to get outdoors over the bank holiday weekend. Make sure you check opening times and restrictions before making plans.

5. Plan a movie night

Easter movies may not be a staple like Christmas films, but there are still some good options to enjoy with children. The release of new family-friendly movies often marks the school holidays, but many are delayed until cinemas reopen in a few weeks. A movie night at home can be just as popular though.

Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get comfy on the sofa to enjoy an Easter-themed film. Peter Rabbit, Hop, and Rise of the Guardians are all excellent options for a family film night this Easter.

6. Take a (virtual) trip to the zoo

If your Easter usually involves a day trip out as a family, you don’t have to quite give up the tradition. While most venues are closed, the last year has seen virtual experiences soaring – you can even take a digital trip to the zoo.

Chester Zoo has been hosting live virtual zoo days that let you see everything from impressive elephants to adorable red pandas. The videos take you behind the scenes of the zoo, allowing your family to see it from another perspective – perfect for young animal lovers.

It’s not just Chester Zoo that’s offering a virtual experience either. Over the last year, many attractions, including museums, galleries, theatres, and more, have developed an online presence. If you have a family favourite destination, it’s worth checking their website to see if they’ll be hosting online events.