10 Top Tips for Frontline Holiday Club Staff

From years of hands-on experience running holiday clubs and creating content alongside some of the most creative minds in children’s engagement.

We know what it’s like.

The noise, the energy, the sudden downpour that sends everyone indoors.

At The Wonder Company, our team has spent years running holiday clubs at The Rainbow Factory and developing engaging content for children across the UK with The Wonder Company. Along the way, we’ve learned that keeping kids focused, happy, and creative doesn’t always come from grand plans — it comes from connection, flexibility, and a sense of fun.

This guide is packed with practical tips you can use right away — especially if you’re new to running sessions or stepping into a busy club for the first time. Think of it as a friendly bit of backup: a handful of ideas, reminders, and confidence-boosters to help you bring out the best in every child, no matter the weather.

1. First Impressions Matter

Children decide quickly how they feel about a session — and about you.A warm smile, an open tone, and a few minutes to learn their names can completely change the atmosphere.

✨ Try this:

• Start with a fun icebreaker (“What’s your superpower?” or “Would you rather...?”)

• Welcome each child personally at the door.

• Let them help set up — it gives them ownership and pride.

2. Keep Them Busy, Not Overwhelmed

The best sessions balance energy and calm.When the excitement starts to bubble over, switch things up with a quick “reset” activity — something creative, short, and easy to follow.

✨ Try this:

• Five-minute drawing or build challenge (“Build the tallest tower you can!”)

• Quick-fire quizzes, riddles, or word hunts.

• “Change the leader” games where kids take turns giving instructions.

3. Create Moments of Calm

Even the most confident children need time to pause.Quiet corners, mindful colouring, or gentle puzzles help children reset and refocus. These moments also help prevent overwhelm and support emotional wellbeing.

✨ Try this:

• Set up a “Calm Table” with colouring sheets, puzzles, and mindfulness prompts.

• Use breathing games (“Smell the flower, blow out the candle”).

• Create a “Peace Pass” where children can take a short break if needed.

4. Embrace Wet Weather

Rainy days can be golden — they’re the perfect chance to spark creativity and teamwork.Think beyond crafts: story challenges, scavenger hunts, or indoor group builds keep things moving and minds engaged.

✨ Try this:

• “Build a den” corner with chairs, blankets, and imagination.

• “Pass the Story” — each child adds a line to a shared tale.

• Indoor scavenger hunt (“Find something round, blue, or soft”).

• Team quiz or “Guess that sound” challenge.

5. Let Kids Lead Sometimes

When children take ownership, everything changes.Letting them make small choices — or lead an activity — builds confidence and connection.

✨ Try this:

• “Mini Leaders” — assign daily helpers to choose warm-ups or crafts.

• Create a “Wonder Wall” where children share ideas for next time.

• Have a “Design Your Own Game” challenge and play the winners.

6. Don’t Strive for Perfection

Holiday clubs are full of surprises — and that’s okay.You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be present. Focus on connection, encouragement, and laughter.

✨ Try this:

• When something goes wrong, laugh it off together.

• Ask the group, “What should we do next?” — kids love helping find solutions.

• Share your own “oops” moments to show mistakes are part of learning.

7. Listen First, React Second

Sometimes, behaviour or frustration hides something else — tiredness, hunger, or nerves.Take a breath, listen, and show empathy before stepping in.

✨ Try this:

• Ask calm questions: “What’s happened?” or “How can we fix this together?”

• Offer choices (“Would you like to help me or take a minute over here?”).

• Use positive language — notice good behaviour as much as tricky moments.

8. Build Team Spirit

When staff work together, everything flows.Encourage communication, share ideas, and support each other — especially on hectic days. Kids can sense a positive team dynamic.

✨ Try this:

• Hold a two-minute team huddle before each session.

• Swap roles occasionally to stay fresh and learn from one another.

• End the day with “One win, one wow” — every staff member shares something that went well.

9. Celebrate Every Achievement

Children light up when their efforts are noticed.It doesn’t need to be a competition — recognition builds pride, self-esteem, and motivation.

✨ Try this:

• Create a “Wall of Wonder” to display artwork, crafts, or ideas.

• Give verbal praise that’s specific (“I love how you helped your teammate there!”).

• Use sticker charts or certificates for effort and kindness, not just achievement.

10. End Every Day with Wonder

The final minutes matter — they’re what kids remember.End on a positive, reflective, or funny note so everyone leaves feeling good.

✨ Try this:

• Group reflection: “What was your favourite moment today?”

• Quick “gratitude circle” — each child shares one thing they enjoyed.

• Short story or mini performance to end the day on a high.

Final Thoughts

Every day brings new energy, new weather, and new opportunities to create moments that matter. Whether you’re leading a group, helping behind the scenes, or stepping in for the first time — you play a vital part in shaping how children feel about themselves, each other, and the world around them.

From everyone at The Wonder Company, thank you for bringing imagination, patience, and heart to every session. Together, we’re building brighter, more confident futures — one day of wonder at a time.

Free to print and share across your teams

Download more resources at thewondercompany.co.uk