Summer is the season for sunshine, warmth, and endless opportunities for fun with your kids. However, keeping the little ones entertained while sticking to a budget can sometimes feel like a challenge. It is now July and there is still a lot of summer left for many of us. Summer activities can get expensive so let’s talk about having a fun summer while being on a budget!! So this includes doing simple staycations and keeping summer travel and visits to local places that don't require long drives or an airplane trip.
I recently did a post on my personal facebook page asking moms what fun CHEAP things they did or are going to do this summer with their children and here's a list of cool activities they suggested.
- SPLASH pad (it’s free)
- Swim at a friends house, travel to the local lake or river
- Local library events
- Purchase a sprayer with different settings for the garden and the kids
- Join a ROCKIn group (you paint rocks and post in the group with clues on where you placed the rocks)
- Fill up a little pool or outside toy full of ORBEEZE and add water
- Play outdoor games like bubbles or water balloons
- Travel to your local park
- If you live in the country, anything with FROGS
- Scavenger hunts
- Geocaching
- Water park
- Travel to the movies
- Putt Putt
- Evening family walks or evening fires
- Read books as a family
- Moms group that travel to meet up at a park!
- Or have a bible study/book group at a home. Moms read while kids play!
- Camp outside
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to create lasting memories without overspending. In addition to the list I just mentioned, here are some detailed budget-friendly ideas to ensure this summer is filled with laughter, exploration, and joy for both moms and kids alike.
1. Backyard Campouts
Who says you need to venture far for a camping experience? Set up a tent in your backyard, complete with sleeping bags, snacks, and perhaps a portable projector for outdoor movies under the stars. This mini-adventure allows kids to experience the thrill of camping while still being close to home comforts.
2. DIY Water Park
Turn your backyard into a water wonderland with simple DIY water activities. A sprinkler, water balloons, and a kiddie pool can provide hours of refreshing entertainment. Add some homemade lemonade and fruit popsicles for a complete summer vibe.
3. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Explore local parks or even your neighborhood with a nature scavenger hunt. Create a checklist of items like pinecones, different types of leaves, or specific flowers. This activity not only keeps kids engaged but also encourages them to appreciate the natural world around them.
4. Library Adventures
Your local library can be a treasure trove of free summer activities. Many libraries offer storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and reading challenges during the summer months. It's a great way to beat the heat while nurturing a love for books and learning.
5. Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic basket with sandwiches, snacks, and a blanket, and head to a nearby park for a leisurely outdoor meal. After eating, explore the playground or go for a nature walk. This simple outing provides a break from routine and allows for quality bonding time.
6. Art and Craft Bonanza
Gather up art supplies you already have at home—markers, paints, colored paper, and glue—and let your kids' creativity flow. You can set themed challenges like creating a summer-themed collage or painting rocks to decorate the garden. These activities are not only fun but also help develop fine motor skills and artistic expression.
7. Local Community Events
Keep an eye out for free or low-cost community events such as concerts in the park, farmers' markets, or outdoor movie screenings. These events often provide entertainment for the whole family and a chance to connect with your community.
8. Science Experiments
Explore the world of science with simple experiments that can be done at home using household items. Create a volcano using baking soda and vinegar, make slime, or grow a bean plant in a jar. These hands-on activities are not only educational but also captivating for curious young minds.
9. Bike Adventures
Dust off those bicycles and helmets and embark on family bike rides. Explore bike trails in your area or simply pedal around your neighborhood. It's a great way to stay active together while enjoying the sights and sounds of summer.
10. Cooking and Baking Together
Invite your kids into the kitchen for some culinary adventures. Bake cookies, make homemade pizza, or create your own ice cream sundaes. Cooking together not only teaches valuable skills but also allows for delicious treats to be enjoyed together as a family.
11. Visit Local Museums or Zoos
Many museums, zoos, and aquariums offer free or discounted admission days, especially during the summer months. Check their websites or local community calendars for special offers. These outings provide educational opportunities and a chance to discover something new.
12. Volunteer Together
Teach your children the importance of giving back by volunteering together as a family. Help out at a local food bank, participate in a beach cleanup, or visit a nursing home to brighten someone's day. Volunteering fosters empathy and a sense of community spirit.
13. Movie Marathon
Have a movie marathon day at home with your kids' favorite films or explore classic family movies together. Create a cozy viewing area with blankets and pillows, and don't forget the popcorn. It's a relaxing way to unwind and enjoy quality time together.
14. Stargazing
I've done this one quite a few times with my kids. On a clear summer night, take your kids outside to gaze at the stars. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets, or simply lie down and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. You can even make it extra special with some hot cocoa or homemade star-shaped cookies.
15. DIY Day Spa
Transform your home into a spa retreat for a day. Set up a DIY spa station with homemade facemasks, cucumber slices for eyes, and soothing music playing in the background. Pamper yourselves with manicures, pedicures, and relaxation exercises. It's a wonderful way to unwind and bond.
Embracing the Joy of Summer
Summer is a time for making memories that will be cherished for years to come. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can provide your kids with a summer full of excitement and adventure, all while staying within your budget. Whether exploring nature, getting crafty at home, or simply enjoying each other's company, these budget-friendly activities ensure that summer fun is accessible to everyone. So, get ready to soak up the sun, laugh together, and create magical moments that will make this summer truly unforgettable for both moms and kids alike.
For more great tips and fun follow Chelsea on Instagram @deafmonatmom.
