Summer days out to remember: Joy, connections and first-time adventures
3 mins read
Friday 29 August 2025
As we wave goodbye to the long summer break, we hope the memories of Contact’s fun activity days throughout August stick around a bit longer for all the families who attended them.
From sandy adventures in Bournemouth, Herne Bay and Southend, to a wild day at London Zoo. Every trip was packed with smiles, laughter and special moments. (Our Zoo trip was kindly organised by John Lyon’s Charity, as part of their celebration of 10 years of their SchoolHoliday Activity Fund)
Whether it was building sandcastles, paddling in the sea or making new friends, our family fun days offer families more than just a change of scenery. They create lasting connections and memories.
“I loved being friends with the ocean”
One parent summed up the spirit of these days perfectly: “Thank you to the team for a lovely day out. It is a great opportunity to meet other parents and carers and children.”
“Thank you so much for today’s trip to London Zoo. We all had a fantastic time, and the food was great. All the staff were so supportive. Thank you once again.”
Parent carer
And one young beachgoer melted our hearts with this gem: “I loved being friends with the ocean. I could not think of anything I did not like.”
“It was unforgettable”
These trips also mean a lot to Contact’s staff – especially those who work behind the scenes at Contact HQ. Here’s what our database manager, Alex, had to say after volunteering on our Bournemouth family day out:
“Volunteering at Contact’s family events is an excellent way to put myself in touch with why we do the jobs we do.
“I’ve had all kinds of illuminating conversations with parent carers. I’ve seen the real positive effect that a trip out can have on them and their (often very excited) children. It is a pleasure to support them in some small way.
“My favourite moment so far? The cheer that went up on the coach from the children as they spotted the sea for the first time on the approach to Bournemouth. Some of them had never seen a beach before – it was unforgettable.”
Don’t miss our family fun days and other events
Keep up to date with everything Contact offers families, including family activity days, by signing up to our weekly newsletter.
Many of our trips are organised by local Contact teams – see whether we have anything in your area.
Could you help us unlock even more joy for families by making a donation to our summer appeal? Your donation, however big or small, will make a big difference.
