From eating out to holding a swap shop – seven tips to entertain kids at half-term while halving your costs

CUT your costs on entertaining the kids this half-term.

The May holiday can leave working parents up to £433 out of pocket, according to magazine Primary Times.

But getting the children to help plan value activities can mean you slash what you spend.

Here are seven easy ways to save.

1) HOLD A SWAP SHOP: Invite friends round for a play date then arrange a week-long toy exchange, so everyone gets to keep something new until the hols end.

2) EAT OUT FOR FREE: Many big names, including Asda, Dunelm and Future Inns, are offering “kids eat free” or £1 meal deals. See netmums.com.

3) ENJOY A TRIP FOR LESS: Take advantage of National Rail’s Days Out 2 For 1 deal, with up to half-price entry at top attractions, hotels and theatres around the UK. See daysoutguide.co.uk

4) BECOME BUDDING ENTREPRENEURS: Ask your children to clear out any unwanted clothes, toys and books, then hold a yard sale or list the items online. Give them any profits as pocket money.

5) CHECK OUT YOUR COUNCIL: Most local authorities put on free or low-cost activities, from arts, crafts and cooking classes to sports clubs. Visit your local council website for details.

6) HAVE AN EAT-UP WEEK: Remove all your food from the freezer, fridge and cupboards.

Make a list of what you have, then repack with the items that go out of date first at the front.

Ask the kids to help you prepare meals from whatever is there, only buying in fresh ingredients.

7) USE FAMILY VOUCHERS: Seek out special half-term discounts on Groupon, Vouchercloud and vouchercodes.co.uk.