There’s nothing better than having a couple of days off to spend some quality time with the kids. These are the moments you will cherish.
But finding something everyone will enjoy that won’t cost a fortune can be tough. You can’t visit theme parks and movie theatres every time the kids are off school.
So if you’re looking for some fun family activities the kids will love but which won’t break the bank, check out the ideas below.
Playgrounds, Skateparks and State Parks
Most communities have at least one free playground for children of all ages to enjoy. Fresh air, exercise, and hours of fun for the kids, it’s definitely worth getting acquainted with all the best playground spots in your area.
More and more skateparks are popping up too. You have to make the initial investment in a skateboard, BMX or scooter. But if you’ve got adventurous little ones with a need for speed, you could set them up with a fun, active hobby for life.
If you live near a state park, make the most of it. Not everyone is so lucky! Hiking, camping, swimming and cycling will keep the whole family entertained, without costing you a penny.
In a coastal area like Venice, you could try fishing for something a bit more hands-on – fishing guide venice.
Movie Marathon
If the weather forecast isn’t so hot, why not enjoy a movie marathon? Get some popcorn in, make a pillow fort, and let Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings do the hard work.
Or better yet, crafty kids might enjoy making their own film. You don’t need a fancy camera to make a YouTube movie and stretch the kids’ creative muscles. You can write a little script, dig out some old clothes for costumes, and use your mobile phone for footage. Then use some free video editing software for the polish.
Not so great with tech? Write and perform a play instead. Acting and storytelling are great for a child’s creative development and might lead them to a career-worthy passion.
Volunteer Work
Volunteer work is chicken soup for the soul. It’s also free, a great way to introduce your kids to the community, and to get everyone out of the house.
Whether it’s visiting a lonely older person, getting outdoors for some litter-picking, taking a rescue dog for a walk, or helping out in community gardens or allotments, helping others in a great way to spend time with the family and brighten everyone’s day.
Baking and Lemonade
Cookies, cakes, pies and lemonade – whatever your family’s favourite treat, kids love getting stuck in and making their own food.
Baking can also be a great way to recontextualise that pesky math homework into something more practical. For some easy recipes kids can help with, click here.
And if you think you have a little business person in the making, you can’t beat a good old-fashioned lemonade stand to teach them the ropes.
And there we have it! Use these ideas to get the ball rolling and find the perfect day out for your kids, without breaking the bank.