FUN FREE OR CHEAP THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER
Are you looking for fun ways to entertain the kids for free this summer or ways to enjoy yourself while sticking to your budget? The resources and ideas here should really help you do that this coming summer. Having a great time does not always have to cost a lot, in fact some of the best experiences are budget friendly. Simply being present with your family and friends can make a huge difference in the experience for everyone. So let me encourage you to set aside your smart phone or device to enjoy these activities and focus on the ones you love.
1) Go to the park- Many areas have parks of all kinds. Some of my favorites are our local metro parks and our botanical gardens which are both free and so nice to visit.
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2) Utilize your local library- This is a great idea to have some fun entertainment on a budget for the kids. Local libraries offer so much to entertain and educate you and all you need is a library card.
3) Local museums- In our local area the art museum is well-loved and can be a fun place to go spend a few hours. It does not always cost a lot either, some museums run discount days or even free events that you could participate in.
4) Go to your local zoo- We have a wonderful zoo in NW Ohio area and they actually have free admission on Monday's which makes this a great free thing to do with the family.
5) Free or cheap summer movies- Go to the movies for special super discounted showings offered throughout the summer. You can also pick a time to go early on weekends when the movies are discounted as well. Check your local theaters for more details on what is available in your area.
6) Summer reading programs- Many area libraries offer a summer reading program as well as many book stores. This is great for any age to participate in as long as the offer it for all ages. This can also be a great activity for you and your children to enjoy together.
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7) Pack a picnic lunch- Pack a lunch and take a good old-fashioned picnic at one of your area parks. Soak up some sun, take some balls and baseball mitts to play catch or some yard games you have at home for you and the kids to enjoy.
8) Fossil parks in your local area- Sylvania Ohio which is close to where I live and offers an area where they usually have well-preserved fossils that you can search for in piles of dirt and rocks. This is especially fun for little boys who love to dig in the dirt but can be fun for the whole family. In our local fossil park visitors aren't allowed to bring any digging equipment like hammers or chisels. You really do not need it though because they are so easy to locate without this and it is advised to come after it rains because the fossils are easier to locate then.
9) Check with local churches- Many area churches offer fun free things to do in the summer especially for children. Vacation bible school is a big thing at a lot of churches and kids have tons of fun participating, doing crafts and fun things and just hanging out with other kids.
10) Take a trip to the nearest beach or pool- Whether you live close to the ocean or not a lot of areas have smaller beaches or community pools, you could take a day and just hang out in the sun. Don't forget your sunblock though and snacks and drinks so you don't need to buy anything.
11) Get creative and make something- Use things you have around the house and create something. You do this with things many basic things you find around the house like bubbles made with dish soap like the recipe below, play dough made with elmers glue, you could put together a scrap-book that you have been dying to finish, make homemade cards, etc.
Recipe for play dough
1/2 cup white school glue, 1/4 cup cornstarch (plus more for kneading) ,
food coloring & 3/4 cup warm water
Recipe to make bubbles2 cups hot water 1/4 cup dish soap 1 (.25 oz) packet gelatin & 2 tablespoons glycerin
12) Check your area for local free festivals or fairs-
Many areas have local festivals or fairs throughout the summer that do not cost a fortune. These can be a lot of fun for the whole family so be on the look out for these dates and plan a fun day at these festivals or fairs.
13) Go ride bikes, roller skate or roller blade-
If you already owns bikes and skates these can be great to both get some exercise and enjoy hours of fun alone or with family and friends.
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14) Have a yard sale-
You can not only save some money with this activity but also make some extra money. Get the whole family involved and begin to teach kids how to handle money by allowing them to help price items, count the money and even make change.
There are so many ways to get creative and enjoy your summer on a tight budget. These are just some budget friendly ways to entertain yourself and your children during the summer even without a lot of money.