From ordering their own ice cream to making friends by the pool, a family holiday could be the easiest way to help children grow in confidence this summer.

And with nearly two-thirds (63%) of children saying they feel more independent on holiday, TUI retail expert Alex Wagstaff says everyday holiday moments can become confidence-building firsts.

To help children grow their confidence this summer and build on those everyday milestones, TUI's holiday expert Alex Wagstaff has given her five top tips for families and children to use over summer holidays.

1. Let them order for themselves – from asking for an ice cream to choosing from the buffet, small decisions help children feel trusted.
2. Give them holiday spending money – budgeting for souvenirs or treats is a simple way to practise responsibility.
3. Encourage them to meet other children – kids' clubs, hotel activities and poolside chats can build social confidence.
4. Help them try something new – whether it's a new food, sport, swim skill or waterslide, holidays make firsts feel fun.
5. Hand over small responsibilities – carrying a boarding pass, packing a day bag or helping choose an activity can make children feel capable.

The advice comes after TUI's research highlights a clear holiday "independence gap" between parents and children.

Children believe they are ready to walk around a holiday resort alone from age seven, while parents place that milestone at 10. They also feel ready to stay out later with friends around three years earlier than parents think they should.

The findings also show that this extra freedom can have a real impact, with 41% of children saying being trusted by their parents helps them feel more independent.

Almost three in 10 parents also said their children are more willing to try new things on holiday, from new foods and activities to making friends away from home.