An economy crisis, like what the world is currently experiencing, could make all hope for summer fun seem impossible. With families scaling back and trying to make smaller budgets work, it may feel like there is no room for any "extras" to keep the kids entertained. Well, the fact of the matter is that, despite the economy crisis, there are plenty of great places to take your kids for some much needed summer excitement.
The key to finding cheap summer fun is not to go after activities that may seem "off the beaten path" or just plain quirky. However you look at it, you can have a fantastic time with your kids by doing things that with frugal recipes, using items that you can buy for cheap, and going places that won't cost you a ton of cash. Here are 5 fun, but cheap, places to explore with your kids during this economy crisis:
Play at an indoor playground. For the cost of a snack at your local fast food restaurant such as McDonald's you can buy for cheap an afternoon of running, jumping, and sliding fun. Kids love playgrounds and being indoors, in the air conditioning, is perfect because they won't get overheated or sunburned. Plus, your budget won't get burned either. Expect to spend as little as 50c per person for a snack like an apple pie or for an ice-cream sundae. These places usually have a water fountain where kids can refresh for free!
Go on a nature scavenger hunt. This is an activity that is great during this economy crisis because it can help you and your family learn to keep things in perspective relative to the earth and it's resources. Do a little research and get an age or grade appropriate science nature trail scavenger hunt worksheet online that you will find for free. Then, get the kids, bike, scoot, or walk to your nearest nature trail and let them explore.
Go to the beach if you live near one. Many people are only a drive away from a great beach. You don't have to make your day at the beach a huge financial undertaking. For the cost of a little gas, you and your family could be on your way to some sand and surf fun without the expense of a hotel stay. Going to most beaches is a free activity and during this economy crisis, you may find that it's one that is needed for a little peace of mind. The kids will love the sand and building sand sculptures is one of life's most engaging activities for a kid. So, pack up and hit the beach!
If you don't live near a beach, find a park with a sandpit. Many municipalities have incorporated sandpits into their playgrounds and parks because kids really love sand. A completely free activity, your kids can have a blast on the playground equipment and still try their hand at sand art. Buy for cheap some snacks and keep lots of water available. Kids love to snack and play, but if you don't play you could end up paying a lot of money for snacks from a vending machine.
Go camping...in your own backyard. Pitch a tent that you can buy for cheap at a discount store and plan a night when you and the kids sleep out under the stars. If you want to make a whole afternoon and evening of the backyard adventure, then, prepare a menu using frugal recipes like hot dogs, chips, and fruits and veggies that are in season that you can buy for cheap. Make the house off limits except for "emergencies" and your kids will have a summer adventure that they will remember for years to come. You will remember that it barely cost you anything but that you all have a fabulous time!
Having great summer fun does not have to be a budget buster. You and your kids can find fantastic places to go, near and far, for cheap. During this economy crisis, many people are trying to do all that they can for their family to have a financial saving. Cost-conscious people simply need to do a little research and find free or super inexpensive resources near by that they can enjoy with their children for some cheap summer fun!
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