15 Free & Cheap Fun Things to Do with Kids
Summertime is a great time for kids to get out and active, but what if you are on a limited budget? No worries, as there are plenty of activities your kids can enjoy that are either free or cheap. That’s right, free or cheap! If you have no idea where to begin, take a look below at 15 free and cheap summer activities for kids that you can look forward to enjoying this summer.
1. Join a local library book club.
You can check the book out for free and enjoy many of the activities and talks the library will sponsor to go along with it. You can even earn prizes for the books you read.
2. Join the Barnes and Noble summer reading club.
Just swing in to sign up, and when you read so many books during the summer months you get to come in for a free book, typically from a special selection created for the promotion.
3. Go star gazing.
Look up the various constellations on the internet and then go out on a clear night and see if you can locate them. Make a checklist prior to going and see how many you can check off.
4. Try bird watching.
Visit local parks and hiking trails and see how many different birds you can spot. You can snag a pair of binoculars at the dollar store before going, and make a list to check off just like you did for the constellations.
5. Hold a bike wash.
Gather all of your dish soap and sponges and let the kids gather to get their bikes sparkling clean.
6. Visit on discount days at local museums.
This is a simple way to see the museums and all they have to offer at a fraction of the price. Just check their websites for details on these special days.
7. Organize a toy swap.
Let kids get together to trade and swap trading cards, Shopkins, Pokemon cards, and other kid’s collectibles. They will love being able to show off their collections and to trade for new items.
8. Check out free or inexpensive concerts and plays at local high schools, community colleges, or recreation centers.
See if the local park program offers any free shows during the summer months as well.
9. Visit Michael’s Craft Store for free and inexpensive crafting events for kids.
You can find the schedule of events online, and will find that most are just a few dollars to attend. They offer all sorts of planned DIY projects, like washi tape and jewelry making crafts.
10. Make homemade play dough.
You will find that Pinterest is FULL of various recipes, scented recipes, even edible play dough recipes. You are sure to find one that is easy and enjoyable for your kids.
11. Have a loaded water balloon fight.
This is no ordinary fight. In this case the water balloons are loaded with shaving cream. This is a fun way to have a balloon fight and one that is sure to get messy.
12. Enjoy kid meal discount days at local eateries.
Most eateries offer a kids eat free or discounted night, so find out when some of them are offered in your area and take advantage of them.
13. Attend discount days at your local theatre.
Many theatres offer a $1 kids day or some sort of children’s discount day, so find out when they are happening in your area and take in a flick for cheap or free.
14. Make your own root beer or purple cow floats.
All you need is root beer, grape soda, and vanilla ice cream. Kids will love creating and eating this traditional and old fashioned summer treat!
15. Go camping!
This is a great way to get out and enjoy nature, and most camp sites can be reserved for under $20 a night. Or, just pitch a tent in your backyard!
Are you ready to start having summer fun for less? Give these 15 free and cheap summer activities your consideration and you are sure to do just that!
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