A childcare worker who has spent several years at school holiday clubs has shared the most common mistakes parents make each summer - but it's an easy issue to sort13:39, 24 Jul 2026The summer holidays are an exciting time for children - but for many parents, the six-week break brings the challenge of juggling childcare around work. As a result, thousands of youngsters spend their days at school holiday clubs while their parents are on the job.‌Now, one childcare worker has revealed the biggest mistakes parents make before dropping their children off - including one common habit that staff wish would stop immediately.‌The worker, who has spent several years at children's holiday clubs and is also a parent herself, shared her top tips to help families avoid unnecessary stress and make sure children get the most out of their day. She noted that while there's plenty parents can do to help the day go without a hitch, one of the most frustrating oversights is failing to send children with a refillable water bottle.‌She said: "My most important tip... please send a water bottle. Specifically a child-friendly, refillable water bottle."She pointed out that many parents send their little ones in with juice cartons or fruit drinks instead, but these quickly cause problems as they can't be topped up as the day goes on.She added: "We refill water bottles frequently throughout the day, but obviously cannot refill a juice carton."‌The childcare worker also urged parents to take the time to read through any information issued ahead of their child's first day, as it typically sets out precisely what's included.While some clubs lay on breakfast, snacks and a light tea, lunch isn't always part of the deal. She revealed that staff regularly find themselves faced with children who've arrived without a packed lunch, simply because parents assumed meals would be on offer.While her club is able to prepare a basic meal, she cautioned that not every provider offers that facility. She also urged parents to give careful thought to what they pack for lunch.‌Some children turn up with barely enough food to see them through the day, while others arrive with lunchboxes bursting with sweets and treats."We have some kids sent with a sandwich, apple and yoghurt who then complain they're hungry by mid-afternoon," she added.‌"Then we have some sent with bulging lunchboxes filled with every treat imaginable."She also reminded parents that many holiday clubs operate a nut-free policy, so peanut butter sandwiches are best left at home.The childcare worker noted that a backpack is another must-have, particularly for children who love arts and crafts, as they'll frequently need somewhere to carry their creations home.‌For younger children, she recommends popping a spare set of clothes in the bag in case of any accidents or spillages.She also urged parents to check the forecast before heading out and dress children accordingly, noting it's surprisingly common for youngsters to show up in thick jumpers on sweltering days or shorts in the middle of winter.Parents are also advised against sending children in pricey outfits or impractical shoes, as paint, glue and grass stains are virtually unavoidable.‌Finally, she recommended that parents check the club's sunscreen policy ahead of the first day, as some require it to be applied before arrival while others will assist children in reapplying it throughout the day.Most importantly, she was keen to put parents' minds at rest that staff are on hand to ensure children have a wonderful time.She said: "We are there to make your child have a fun summer.Article continues below"I know how scary it can be leaving your child for the first time as I've done it myself, but trust me, they have so much fun that they don't want to leave."