Kill two birds with one stone this school holidays - feed your kids and entertain them at the same time! Here's some budget ideas to try this school holidays to keep the kids from climbing the walls, and maybe even give them an opportunity to learn something new!
Pancakes
Foods where everyone gets to make theirs their own way are always a hit! Whether your family likes big fluffy hotcakes, or thin crepes, there's so many ways you can go with these... make cute pancake animals, or top with chocolate chips and whipped cream... However, I've stopped making pancakes in a pan! I know it sounds insane, but unless the kids are learning to cook the pancakes themselves who has time to stand over the stove for the whole pan. I converted to make Sheet Pan Pancakes years ago, and I've never looked back.
Pizza
Same concept here really, everyone gets to make their own pizza, have things exactly the way they want them, and have fun making them. A Basic Pizza Dough is cheap to make, however, I'm never organised enough to wait for the dough to rise, so try this fast, No Yeast recipe instead. Or use pitas, english muffins, or tortillas, and make funny faces with the toppings!
Homemade Marshmallow
Did you know marshmallow is basically just sugar and gelatine? Which makes it very cheap to make! And once you've made it, there's lots of fun options, like toasting over a fire, or making s'mores. The days are getting warmer, so it's the perfect opportunity to get the kids outside, and find a (legal) spot for a campfire! Check out this easy recipe here.
Damper
I'm surprised at the amount of people who don't know what damper is! I've got so many great childhood memories of making this bread over a fire while camping. You cook it on a stick over the fire, which leaves it hollow, perfect for filling with butter and golden syrup! Here's an easy Damper Recipe.
Popcorn
Homemade popcorn must be one of the cheapest snacks you can make - and with the drama of all the popping, kids absolutely love it! Use whatever seasonings you like, but this Rainbow Popcorn was always a staple at our birthday parties when we were growing up. For some reason brightly coloured food is so much more exciting! Learn the make The Perfect Popcorn here