Frugal Fun Summer Activities for Kids
Frugality doesn’t go on vacation for the summer, especially in tough economic times. So what’s a mom (or dad) to do with youngsters home for the summer?
Your best bet is to seek out free and cheap activities that can be enjoyed as a family. Most summer camps and programs are quite pricey, and out of budget for many. Instead of springing for a program you can’t afford, give your kids some responsibility when it comes to choosing meaningful summer activities.
Water recreation is the quintessential heat-beater and timeless summer past time. Swimming, canoing, snorkeling and rafting can be relatively cheap depending on what is close to you and what equipment you own. Look for free water sites, such as state parks, local river access and public beaches. Bathing suits and towels are all you need for hours of fun.
Free museums make for a fun and educational outing, and the air conditioned atmosphere will be a welcome relief on sweltering days. Contact your local chamber of commerce to find out what’s nearby — saving on gas is key to frugal summers.
Try involving your children in the family garden by allowing them to tend and plant their own little patch. Work the garden in the early morning or early evening to avoid the heat of the day.
Crafts and art are great for keeping kids indoor during the intense sun and heat of midday. Craft materials can be cheap or even free if you’re creative. I buy extra paint, crayons, markers, glue and colored pencils when they are at dirt-cheap back-to-school loss-leader prices in late August and early September.
Fruit Picking in the early morning or late afternoon is enjoyed by my kids throughout the summer. We pick Strawberries in May, cherries in June, blueberries in July, peaches in August and apples in September. Our favorite place to go is Hartland Orchard in Virginia.
Have any ideas for a fun, frugal summer? I’d love to hear your tips.
Those are all great tips.
My daughter loves making crafts.
Bookstores like Barnes & Noble have reading circles for younger children.
Simple activities like grilling outside are a cherished activity in our household, also “create a story” is how my daughters day ends. It gives her a chance to think and be creative she loves it. I was doing it for the first few years but when she turned three she decided she wanted to participate.
Apple is currently featuring a camp at select Apple stores kids will be able to create music, vidoes, and a lot of other things for free. At the end of the session they get a free t-shirt and a CD/DVD of their “fun work”.
June 19th, 2008 at 11:08 amThanks for stopping by, Opal. I enjoy your blog.
Thanks for the tip about the Apple store camps. I wonder if there is one near us, I’ll have to check.
Your daughter must be very creative … our kids like us to make up the stories still!
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June 28th, 2008 at 6:29 am