The operator whisked a group of youngsters off to the Sunwing Side Beach hotel in Turkey over the October half-term for an all-inclusive getaway.

For some of the children, it was their first experience flying, trying new and unusual food and making new friends.

It comes after more than two million people tuned in last Christmas to see the show’s regulars jet off to Cyprus for a holiday.

As before, the kids are joined by their siblings and parents as well as experts Dr Elizabeth Kilbey and Professor Paul Howard-Jones to gauge how the they behave and interact with each other and their families away from their daily routine.

Activities included a Turkish mud bath and snorkelling, as well as meeting Thomas Cook Kids Club mascots Lollo and Bernie.

Jamie Queen, Thomas Cook group marketing director, said: “It was fascinating to watch last year’s Secret Life of Five Year Olds holiday special and to see how our youngest guests reacted and dealt with new situations.

“Turkey was one of this summer’s most popular destinations for families across the UK so it is apt that in this year’s Christmas episode, the children bring along their parents and siblings to experience everything a family holiday and the destination has to offer.”

Jane Hector-Jones, Channel 4 group partnerships and content manager at Channel 4, added: “Following the success of last year’s special, we’re extremely excited to be partnering with Thomas Cook once again on such a heart-warming series.

“Channel 4 viewers will be treated to a warm and authentic look at family dynamics and how all the delights of a holiday can be a child’s greatest adventure.”