Everyone deserves a break from learning every now and then, but we promise that these educational holidays in France are so fun that your children won’t even realise they’re gaining new skills and knowledge!
History lessons in Normandy
No matter what school-age your children are, you’ll find some history in Normandy that is sure to both educate and engage them. Children of all ages are sure to be fascinated by the Bayeux Tapestry, which is on display in the Bayeux Museum. The tapestry offers a great chance to step back into medieval times, and shows both the Norman invasion of England and the Battle of Hastings.
Follow the whole story from William of Normandy preparing for the invasion and setting sail, to the famous Battle of Hastings itself. It cannot be said that everything shown in the tapestry is perfectly accurate, as it was commissioned by the Normans, but it certainly gives an interesting insight into the different events that occurred. Younger children might like to spot the dogs and horses that appear throughout the tapestry, or have fun finding the selection of mythical creatures that are also included.
Normandy is also home to the D-Day beaches where Allied forces landed on 6th June 1944 in order to liberate north-west Europe from Nazi occupation as park of Operation Overlord. There are loads of very interesting things for children studying World War 2 to discover here. Visit Longues-sur-Mer where you can see giant examples of German artillery set in their original concrete structures, explore the Overlord Museum which is home to military equipment, photos, and letters, and head to the Arromanches 360° Circular Cinema where you can see impressive footage of the Battle of Normandy.
Learn to speak French
The best way to learn a new language is to head to the country where it is spoken fluently, so holidays in France offer the perfect opportunity for your children to work on their language skills. If your kids are already learning French in school they can improve on this during their holiday, and you might like to teach the basics to younger children before you travel. We suggest singing French songs, like Frère Jacques, on the ferry journey to get them started!
While you’re away, encourage children to order their meals or ask simple questions in French. They should also seize the opportunity to speak with locals which will help them to perfect their tone and accent. One of the best places to do this is in markets, as there is often plenty that can be said by stallholders about their products. Staying in a holiday camp or hotel? You might also like to suggest that your kids befriend French children, as they will have lots that they can teach each other.
If you are visiting museums, zoos, or other attractions with information boards during your holiday in France, encourage kids to read the signs in both English and French. Should their language skills be a little more advanced, you could try covering the English text with your hand and ask them to read and then translate the French copy for you.
P.E. lessons in France
Being active is a very important part of childhood, so booking an adventure holiday in France could be the perfect way to encourage your children to put down their tablets, step away from the TV, and take part in some activities that they haven’t tried before. You’ll find that there are plenty of options for children of all ages, and you’ll often be able to choose between land and water based activities too! Activity holidays offer a great way to bond as a family by working as a team, so we guarantee you’ll make lots of amazing memories.
First, you’ll need to choose between finding your own activities or booking a multi-activity holiday. You’ll discover that there are great outdoor activities on offer throughout many areas of France, so finding things to do, such as canoeing, climbing, and cycling, definitely won’t be a problem. A multi-activity holiday will be a little more organised, and perhaps a bit more random! We have seen everything from raft building to catapult making being included in activity itineraries, so you certainly won’t get bored and are bound to learn new things!
Depending on where you are staying you might find that your accommodation offers activities that you can all get involved in too. This gives you a bit of flexibility as you can just take part as and when you want to without having to schedule or book anything in. You might even be able to encourage your kids to take part in an activity while you enjoy some peace and quiet every now and again.
There are so many great educational holidays in France that you can take your kids on, no matter what their favourite subject is. Book your Dover to Calais crossing today and start your holiday as soon as you step on board your ferry to France!
