New research has unveiled the whimsical and imaginative holiday plans that children would create if given the reins, with a survey of 1,000 youngsters aged 6-12 highlighting a world of dessert-first meals, treasure hunts, and giant water fights. The study, commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages, shows that kids dream of indulging in three ice creams daily, using bikes or scooters as their primary transport, and playing board games every night, painting a picture of carefree, fun-filled getaways.
Key Findings from the Children's Holiday Poll
The poll, conducted via OnePoll.com, reveals that 40% of children would spend all day in the pool, while one in five would organise hide and seek sessions with their family. Additionally, 14% would opt for a cosy pyjama day, and 93% express a preference for staying at holiday parks, citing them as fun places with abundant activities. Notably, 72% of respondents believe holiday parks offer entertainment that keeps them engaged, with 19% viewing them as a home away from home due to amenities like swimming pools, adventure playgrounds, and arcade games.
Competition to Appoint 'Directors of Fun'
In response to these findings, Sykes Holiday Cottages has launched a unique competition to appoint two children as resident 'Directors of Fun'. This initiative aims to place kids at the heart of holiday planning, encouraging them to share their perfect itineraries until 30th April 2026 for a chance to see their dreams realised. The playful job ad calls for spontaneous, imaginative, and enthusiastic applicants, emphasising the value of children's input in creating memorable family breaks.
Family Time and Freedom Valued Highly
James Shaw, spokesperson for the staycation specialist, commented on the results, noting that while unlimited ice cream and activities generate excitement, children's emphasis on family bonding is particularly striking. Over half (51%) of the surveyed youngsters said their favourite aspect of holidays is spending time with family, and 35% highlighted meeting peers their age. Shaw added, "Holidays should give families the chance to properly switch off, reconnect, and enjoy shared experiences all in one place."
The research also found that eight out of ten children would like to take control of a family holiday, with top reasons including leading activities (63%), instructing relatives (41%), and feeling like an adult (40%). Shaw further explained, "What's striking is how much children value the freedom to shape their own days – whether that's choosing activities, exploring, or just having unstructured time to play."
Top 10 Activities Kids Would Include on Holiday
- Eat ice cream every day
- Spend all day in the pool
- Have a giant water fight
- Ride bikes or scooters everywhere
- Play hide and seek with my family
- Go on a treasure hunt
- Have a midnight feast
- Eat dessert before dinner
- Stay up late playing board games every night
- Have a pyjama day
This list underscores a desire for playful, unstructured fun, with holiday parks emerging as ideal settings due to their flexibility and variety. As families seek ways to reconnect and create lasting memories, this competition offers a creative avenue to incorporate children's joyful perspectives into holiday planning, ensuring breaks are both exciting and meaningful for all involved.
