Summer Fun Without Spending A Lot

When the kids are off from school and have every day free for fun in the sun, spending can become an issue. We want our kids to have a blast, but before we know it, we’ve blown lots of money. Summertime doesn’t mean that the bank account has to dwindle. We can have plenty of memorable times with the kids without wasting money in the process. Of course, not everything comes cheap (or free), but with planning and a positive attitude, there are plenty of ways to spend those summer days on a dime.

Here are some inexpensive ways to make it through summer without overspending. The kids won’t feel like they’re missing a thing, and you won’t be missing your money!

Park Picnic

The kids have to eat no matter what, so why not make mealtime an enjoyable outdoor activity? Pack up a picnic basket with plenty of goodies and drinks – snacks, sandwiches, juice, fruit, etc. – and bring a big blanket to sit on. Find a nice cool shady spot on the grass and dig in. Once the food is finished, the kids can play in the park. It sure beats sitting around the kitchen table when the weather’s so lovely.

Indoor Ice Cream DIY Bar

Kids love to eat ice cream when the weather’s warm, but taking everyone to the ice cream shop can add up. You’ll save a lot of money by buying a big container of ice cream and a variety of toppings to bring home. Set all the toppings out in small bowls and give the kids a scoop or two. They can create their own sundaes with whichever toppings they choose. This is far more fun than having the server at the shop do it for them. And don’t forget to mix in some healthier toppings options like dried fruit, nuts and seeds, and low-sugar dry cereals.

Backyard Scavenger Hunt

Kids love to explore and get down and dirty, so let them have a blast in the backyard. Set up a scavenger hunt where they can look for items you’ve listed. The kids can work in teams or on their own depending upon how many friends come by. The first team or person to find every item on the list can win a modest prize or get a perk like no chores for a week. You’ll love that the kids are playing outside rather than tuning in to another TV show or playing a videogame.

What do you like to do with the kids in the summer? What’s fun but free or inexpensive? We’d love to share your summertime ideas with the AMC community.

For more information like this, please visit All My Children’s blogs.

By: Melissa A. Kay