Parenting costs in Wales have more than doubled in the last decade.

Recent research by Moneyboat reveals that the price of holiday childcare in Wales has increased by a staggering 163.84 per cent from 2014 to 2023.

Comparatively, the UK inflation rate during the same period was 32.25.

In 2014, the average holiday childcare cost in Wales was £63.75, which soared to £168.20 in 2023.

Moneyboat estimates that if prices keep rising at the same speed, parents in Wales can anticipate paying a hefty £357.71 on average by 2030.

It's important to mention that the overall increase in holiday childcare costs across Britain during this period was 63.61 per cent.

England and Scotland saw increases of 58.35 per cent and 51.87 per cent respectively, with England’s costs pegged at £156.43 and Scotland's at £157.22 in 2023.

The stats were also broken down further for parts of England.

Wales' statistics rank as the biggest jump in the entire UK.

The North West recorded the lowest surge: 43.70 per cent from £101.50 to £145.86.

However, this is still more than 10 per cent more than the UK inflation rate.

Also noteworthy is the forecast for 2030.

Britain's average cost is estimated to leap to £230.44, while England and Scotland can expect to pay around £223.65 and £217.60 respectively.

Parenting coach Isobel Mary Champion said: "There are so many summer camps and activity clubs available these days - the choices are mind boggling!

"Not surprisingly, the providers are cashing in on this trend."

She offered helpful tips for parents wanting to offset these soaring costs.

Ms Champion said: "Sharing childcare with another family is a great idea - suggest taking turns to look after each other’s children once or twice a week.

"And do ask all available relatives for regular childcare help - aunts, uncles, grandparents, godparents can all enrich your child’s life."

For larger families, she recommends exploring alternative childcare options that don't add up in cost depending on the number of siblings, such as hiring an au pair for the summer or seeking out students willing to gain some babysitting experience.

Revealing the gravity of the situation, Moneyboat's research highlights that holiday childcare prices are rising at a faster rate than inflation throughout the UK.

Anticipating this trend means parents can explore creative solutions to navigate the mounting costs and ensure their children's holidays are packed with fun.