FUN AND FREE
SUMMER
ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
By: Starla Ross
TightwadMoms.com
For most children, this
time of the year marks the end of book reports, homework, and
multiplication tables. The transition from life at school to
life at home is always a difficult one and leaves many mothers
counting the days until Fall. The transition is even difficult
for preschoolers who must contend with fighting for more
attention from mom or the babysitter when older brothers and
sisters are home.
Fun, family outings do not need
to be expensive and can even be educational. (Gasp! Don't the
let the kids know.) Here are a few ideas for inexpensive, summer
fun for children:
*Check with your local library.
Many libraries offer summer programs that include reading clubs
or contests, special guest illustrators/authors, entertainers,
craft time, or fairs. Most are free and open to the public,
although some might require prior registration.
*Call the park district in your
area. Do they offer free nature hikes? Canoe rides? Tours?
*Do you belong to a group
organization for mothers with children (i.e. a playgroup or
church group)? Contact the local fire station or police station.
Most officers are more than welcome to provide free tours for
children's groups with advance notice. The kids will love it,
and it's free!
*If you are a chuch-goer, check
out the local Bible Schools for the summer. Some are only one
day (others more than that) but parents can attend as well, and
children can particpate in wholesome activities and associate
with other children of the same age.
*Visit a local museum. Is there
a museum in your area you have been meaning to visit, but
haven't? Some museums offer a "free day" where you can
visit without paying admission. The same applies to some zoos.
*Call your local visitor's
center. You just might be surprised what local attractions are
available for little or no cost. Buy a map of your city or
county and take a "day trip" to see the local
attractions. Stop for a picnic lunch at the park.
*Have a swim day. Put on the
kids' suits, some sunscreen, and your favorite flip flops, and
head to a nearby lake, pond, or swimming pool for a day of fun.
The kids will be tired when they get home, and MAY even take a
nap.
*Have a cookie-baking day. Is
it raining? Make cookies, but be sure to let your kids do most
of the work (and the clean up too, of course). Freeze some
cookies for later or hear them giggle when they deliver some to
a neighbor.
Whatever you decide to do, plan
ahead, relax, and have a great time!
Starla Ross is the founder of TightwadMoms.com
-- a website dedicated to helping mothers learn more about
saving, budgeting, reducing debt, and earning from home. You can
subscribe to the TightwadMoms.com newsletter by sending a blank
email to tightwadmoms-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
This article provided by the
Family Content Archives at: http://www.Family-Content.com
