Looking for ways to keep your family entertained and occupied during the long, hot summer days without breaking the bank? You're not alone! As the cost of food and fuel rise, more families are seeking less expensive alternatives to the traditional summertime activities and nixing the expensive vacations.
Frugal Fun at Home
How about making arts and crafts projects? Playdough and fingerpaint are great for little ones while some older children may enjoy working with baker's clay. You can find lots of recipes for various supplies right here on Suite101. Check out the article on Homemade Art Supplies.
You could try teaching your child something that you enjoy doing such as fishing, baking/cooking, sewing, painting, woodworking, etc. Sharing your hobbies, interests and talents with your children will not only encourage them to try new things, it will strengthen your bond as well.
Try planting a garden. What would your family enjoy? How about a butterfly garden? What about planting tomatoes and herbs for a pizza garden? You can easily find free gardening information on the internet and at your local library.
Homemade treats are healthier and way less expensive than their store bought counterparts. Try your hand at homemade ice cream, sorbet, popsicles or ice cream cake personalized with your family's favorite flavors.
Try making up a family summer camp for a week. Choose a theme for each day of the week and base all of your activities and meals for that day around the theme. If a week is too short you could try having theme weeks instead such as beach week, Hawaiian week, nature week, etc.
Inexpensive Summer Activities
What could be cheaper than a picnic in the park? Grab a blanket and a lunch and spend the day playing with your family at the park or the beach.
Have you checked out your local pick-your-own farms lately? Why not add berry picking to the agenda? Check the internet for a list of local pick-your-own farms. After you've picked your berries you can make your own preserves, jams and jellies. Not only is this more cost effective than purchasing whole fruit preserves in the grocery store but it's much healthier for your family since you can control the ingredients.
Go tent camping at a local campground. Tent camping tends to be tremendously less expensive than RV camping and considerably less expensive than sleeping in a hotel. Even if you are planning a family vacation away from home this summer consider camping before booking that pricey hotel room.
Check out your local parks department. Many have free concerts in the park and some have movies or plays as well.
Does your family have a membership to a local tourist attraction or museum? Well why not take full advantage of your membership benefits this summer?!
Do you live in a historical town or area of the country? Why not go exploring? Most of these attractions have a lull between the end of the school year and the beginning of tourist season and in many areas these educational activities are inexpensive or free.
Budget Friendly Summer Fun
When planning budget-friendly activities for your family this summer think back to your favorite summertime activities as a child. It may take a bit of extra effort and imagination on your part but the key to enjoying your summer without worrying about your wallet is to stay local.
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