8 Thrifty Thrills

Published On: September 29, 20231.9 min read

Tight on cash? We’ve got eight ways for you and your kids to go out and have a great time.

Go fly a kite—
Or take a hike, or go bird watching. Take advantage of your city, state, and national parks, and enjoy the great outdoors.

Pack a picnic.
As long as you pack it up and take it outside, your kids won’t mind if it’s at the beach, the park, or even in your own backyard. There’s just something special about spreading a big blanket and enjoying lunch outside.

Check out the library.
Besides being a great place to escape for the day, many public libraries offer free programs for kids: arts and crafts, movies, game nights, or readings. Check out your local branch to find out what fun, free things are being offered right now.

Have a Spa Day.
Even the boys in your life can get on board with some pampering, especially if it’s at home. Invest in some grocery store ingredients for natural face masks (e.g., honey, oatmeal, and avocado), soak tired feet in Epsom salts, and paint fingernails and toes.

Eat on the cheap.
Plenty of restaurants, especially franchised businesses, offer “Kids Eat Free” days. Check your local specials, and then treat your kids to a night out. You’ll still have to pay for your own entrée, but you’ll still be saving money.

Go to school.
Go to school after school, that is. If there’s a local school with an awesome playground, take your kids to play. You can bring a book and relax while the kids climb the monkey bars. Just make sure you check to see if it’s okay to be there after hours!

Lend a hand.
Volunteering with your children is fabulous—you get to spend time together, encourage empathy, and have a positive impact on your community. Check out nonprofits in your community (think animal shelters, food banks, Habit for Humanity, or local hospitals) and schedule some time.

Get wet!
No beach? No problem. Cool off your kids on a hot day with a sprinkler or plastic kiddie pool. Just be sure to follow your town’s water restrictions. On cool days, try an indoor community pool or splash around in the tub.

What are your favorite free activities?

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