Although summertime brings longer days, that doesn’t mean your kids’ entertainment budget has to stretch to fill them. With a little imagination, you can turn ordinary summer days into a series of unforgettable adventures, without draining your wallet. Consider these creative ideas for kicking your summer fun into high gear — while sneaking in a few money-smart lessons along the way.
Explore Local Gems
Many towns offer summer activities and events for families. Check online community calendars and social media for nearby fairs, library events or outdoor concerts. Look for “movies in the park” that let you enjoy kid-friendly flicks and BYOP (bring your own popcorn), all without paying a fortune at the box office. Also look for kids’ pricing, summer special discounts or free admission at zoos, museums and nature centers.
Backyard Adventures
Epic family memories are waiting to be made just outside your back door. Transform your backyard into a fun-filled destination with simple activities like water balloon games and scavenger hunts. Or pitch a tent, dish up some s’mores and spend time stargazing and watching fireflies with the kids.
Budget-friendly Day Trips
Rather than traveling to a far-flung destination, consider a short car ride to open up new possibilities. Take the family on a day trip to a nearby state park or nature trail, with packed lunches ready for picnicking. Bring along a kite or frisbee and spend the day offline while enjoying the great outdoors.
Let Kids Learn While They Play
Mix fun with learning opportunities by letting the kids set up a lemonade stand. Making, marketing and selling drinks can introduce them to the basics of business and help them practice fundamental math skills. Or have the kids plan out a special family outing: Give them a budget and let them help decide how to spend it. They’ll gain experience with establishing priorities and making spending decisions.
Put on a Show
Another fun, low-cost idea: Host a neighborhood talent show. Ask your kids to invite a few of their friends to sing, dance or perform in the backyard. Hand out paper “tickets” and popcorn to make it feel more like an event.
Rainy-day Fun
Don’t let bad weather dampen your summer fun schedule. Get crafty with construction paper, crayons, markers and other supplies, and let kids create their own decorations and artwork. You can even hold a mini art show to display their masterpieces. Or just grab your galoshes and head outside once the afternoon showers subside for some puddle stomping — you might even spot a rainbow.
Make Summer Shine Without Overspending
Summer doesn’t need a high price tag to deliver big time on fun. With a little planning and a lot of imagination, you can create memorable, magical experiences that keep kids happy, engaged and learning along the way. Save money and soak up the season — because some of the best summertime memories are the ones that cost the least.