Parents across the UK are forking out an eye-watering £1,600 every year just to keep their children entertained, according to startling new research.
The study, which surveyed 2,000 British parents, found that weekends are particularly costly, with families spending an average of £31 every Saturday and Sunday on activities for their kids.
Where Does the Money Go?
The research breaks down exactly how these costs add up:
- £24.50 per week on after-school clubs and activities
- £23 weekly on weekend entertainment
- £21.50 each week on toys and games
- £20 weekly on digital entertainment
The Weekend Spending Spike
Saturdays emerge as the most expensive day, with parents spending £16.50 on average. Sundays aren't far behind at £14.50. The research suggests this weekend spending splurge is driven by:
- More free time to fill
- Pressure to create memorable experiences
- Desire to balance screen time with physical activities
The Hidden Costs of Parenting
Beyond the obvious expenses, parents revealed other financial pressures:
"It's not just the activity costs themselves," explained one parent. "There's transport, snacks, equipment, and often we end up spending on ourselves while we wait for them."
The study also found that 45% of parents feel judged if they don't keep their children constantly engaged in activities, adding social pressure to the financial strain.
How Families Are Coping
Faced with these mounting costs, parents are adopting various strategies:
- Rotating expensive activities with free alternatives
- Sharing childcare costs with other families
- Setting strict entertainment budgets
- Rediscovering simple pleasures like parks and libraries
As living costs continue to rise across the UK, this research highlights yet another financial pressure facing modern families.
