- Tour company Evan Evans reveals activities parents want their children to experience by age 9 ¾ – inspired by world-famous wizard, Harry Potter
- Over half of mums and dads (56%) rate Harry Potter-themed experiences most exciting for capturing the imagination
- Results come as Evan Evans announces tickets available for top Harry Potter Tours ahead of the Spring and Summer
It’s the magical figure: the renowned hidden Platform 9 ¾ at London King’s Cross station where Harry and his fellow wizards embark on a magical train journey to their esteemed school of witchcraft and wizardry – and now parents have come up with the 20 activities kids need to experience by age of 9 ¾.
New research by Britain’s longest established tour company Evan Evans lists activities including outdoor adventures named by around half (48 percent) of mums and dads, exploring nature (41 percent) and family days out (40 percent).
Despite a desire for more adventures in nature, over two thirds (68 percent) would be hesitant or unwilling to let their kids play outside unsupervised for extended periods – while nearly two thirds (62 percent) express a true change in the times, admitting their own childhoods involved more free play and unsupervised time compared to children today.
And almost half (42 percent) of parents would also be hesitant to let a child walk or bike to a friend’s house or a local park alone, or with a small group of friends.
When asked about the experience to spark young imaginations, parents rated Harry Potter-themed experiences as one of the most exciting, with over half (56 percent) saying activities such as touring film locations were the most exciting for kids aged 9 ¾ and under.
Top 20 things kids should do by age 9 ¾:
- Roll down a big hill – 48%
- Conquer new heights and climb a tree – 48%
- Camp out in the wild – 41%
- Master the art of tracking animals – 41%
- Embark on behind-the-scenes film locations – 40%
- Discover the lavish lifestyles of kings and queens by visiting castles – 40%
- Score a goal – 39%
- Jump into the deep end of a swimming pool – 36%
- Embrace the freedom of open water – 36%
- Visit a famous landmark – 34%
- Go to a show and watch live performers – 34%
- Scream at the top of your lungs on a roller coaster – 28%
- Go to the park on a playdate with friends – 25%
- Embark on a hiking adventure – 25%
- Put on a show for family or friends – 24%
- Learn a balance skill such as cycling, skateboarding or ice skating – 22%
- Forage wild, edible foods – 21%
- Transform leaves and branches into a snug and secure shelter – 21%
- Horseback riding – 22%
- Tackling an obstacle course – 20%
With millennials the next key parenting generation, they’re changing how kids play expressing less interest in the great outdoors over other activities. Known as the most Harry Potter-obsessed, the research found that they’re the biggest ‘family day out’ fans, with nearly half (44 percent) saying activities such as touring film locations were something they wish their kids experienced more of by the time they reached that magical age.
TikTok-loving Gen Z parents want their kids to do more activities that involve creative movement, with 75 percent saying interests such as dance are at the top of their lists.
Alexis Peppis, Head of Sales of Evan Evans, said: “Families are craving experiences that spark imagination and create lasting memories – and we understand the importance of providing those magical moments, whether it’s stepping into the wizarding world of Harry Potter or exploring the great outdoors.
“We’re committed to offering tours that connect children with these enriching activities, and we have plenty to keep families busy and creating unforgettable memories”
Budding wizards and witches can visit evanevanstours.com to accio (summon!) their perfectHarry Potter-themed tour – whether that’s taking a Harry Potter London Film Locations Tour, discovering Harry Potter film locations in Lacock and the Cotswolds or boarding a magical train journey to Oxford.
About Evan Evans
Since 1933, Evan Evans has delighted guests with the highest quality guided Tours, Experiences and Attractions that London and Britain have to offer. Part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) group, one of the world’s largest travel companies, Evan Evans provides unrivalled expertise in taking guests on incredible journeys and experiences that create unforgettable memories.
Offering both full-day and half-day guided tours, with a range of small group and private chauffeured experiences, Evan Evans provide a highly immersive exploration of British heritage and culture that allows guests to discover London and the UK in greater
