Summer vacation is either already here or just around the corner for most children. Feeling a touch nervous about how to keep your kids occupied and happy during this period? Worried that you might be swamped with the dreaded utterance, “I’m bored” frequently? How about introducing fun educational games as a solution?
Keeping children entertained can be challenging, even more so when trying not to overspend. I found this out the hard way when I explored summer camp options for my son. They were all either beyond my budget, too fleeting (lasting only about a week), or didn’t align with his interests. Consequently, I decided to put plans in place to ensure he enjoys a fun-filled and memorable summer.
Do you relate to this? Here are seven entertaining and free summer activities that can help you bond with your kids and keep them engaged.
1. BOWLING – ‘Kids Bowl Free’ is a well-known program available across the nation that I make an effort to register for each year. It’s pretty straightforward. You visit their webpage, locate your nearest bowling alley, and your child plays two free games all summer long on weekdays. If you spot bowling alleys offering discounts on particular days or through coupons, you can decrease your personal bowling expenses, or pay a one-off fee of around $30 when you join ‘Kids Bowl Free’, to play alongside your child without incurring more costs. Regardless, the savings-making ‘Kids Bowl Free’ program is an excellent option when you need to appease your kid’s boredom.
2. VISIT THE ZOO – While entry tickets to the local zoo would usually be expensive, there is an abundance of free zoos and petting zoos scattered across the country. If none of the free zoos listed here are in your vicinity, discover if there are smaller zoos in nearby towns or even within your home town that offer free admission. Zoos are a magnet for children, as they can keep them entertained while imparting new knowledge. However, ensure to choose a day that isn’t unbearably hot to coax out the animals.
3. PICNICS AT THE PARK – Not every summer day will brim with adventure, but you can spice up the mundane ones with impromptu activities like picnics at the park. Pack some sandwiches, fruits, beverages, and a blanket, and take off to your nearest park for a pleasant picnic.
4. MOVIE NIGHT AT THE PARK – Treat yourself and your child to an outdoor cinematic experience at a neighborhood movie night. Simply bring along a chair, snacks, and enjoy a community screening of a family-friendly film. And the best part? It’s free!
5. BEACH TRIP – Beat the hefty cost of pool passes and take a trip to the beach if one is available close by. Few things can entertain a kid as much as playing with sand and water.
6. LIBRARY VISIT – On sweltering days, head to your local library for solace. Libraries often host a variety of activities such as story-telling sessions, craft workshops, and even movie screenings.
7. BACKYARD CAMPING – Fancy a cosy night at home? Set up a camping site in your backyard, complete with marshmallow roasting and board games. If the weather is inclement, you could always get creative and build a blanket fort indoors.
8. UNDERSTANDING THAT LESS IS MORE – As a parent, the urge to always do more for your children is quite understandable, especially during the summer when you want to create enduring memories for them. However, keep in mind that it’s mostly about spending quality time with loved ones. Simple pleasures, such as enjoying popsicles on the porch or bike rides, can enrich a child’s summer experience without costing anything.
Even if you’ve planned holidays or exciting trips, these free activities will come in handy to sustain a fun-filled summer and avoid shelling out large sums for summer camp. What are the cost-free activities you’re eager to embark on with your child this summer? Do you recall any activities they’ve greatly enjoyed before?
