It’s the start of the school summer holidays, six weeks that are a time of both joy and pain for parents across the nation, Sheena Grant writes.

And if your children haven’t yet muttered the words “I’m bored, what can I do?”, you’re either very lucky or a skilled entertainer who really ought to consider taking up the job professionally.

Of course, if money is no object then it’s easy to keep children entertained with days out to be had at theme parks, zoos and other attractions. For most of us, however, those sorts of outings will be an occasional treat.

For the rest of the time, here are a few no cost or low cost alternatives...

1. Head to the beach: It’s been a great summer weather-wise so far and if the sunshine continues there’s a ready-made playground out there just waiting to be discovered. Our region has great beaches where you can enjoy everything from rock pooling to building sandcastles, swimming and maybe even a spot of family beach olympics.

2. Take the bikes to the forest: Head to Thetford, Rendlesham or Tunstall to enjoy picnics, ride or walk along forest trails, organise your own football match or do a spot of den building.

3. Camp out in the garden: Put up a tent, light a camp fire and toast marshmallows as the sun goes down, read some stories and sleep out under the stars. You haven’t got far to go to get some shelter and a comfy bed should the weather take a turn for the worse in the middle of the night.

More garden fun can be had during the day with some water pistols or a garden sprinkler.

Encourage the children to get arty by mixing cornflour, water and food colouring in a plastic container.

Then use brushes and spray bottles to make designs on any paved area outside. The ‘artwork’ will wash away when the fun’s over.

4. Stage your own film day: A great one for rainy days - hold your own film showing and make your own popcorn. It’s a lot cheaper than the cinema.

5. Have a baking day: Bake some cakes, pizza, biscuits or something more adventurous. The kids could even put together a menu and serve the food to mum and dad, or invite some guests round.