Summer is coming quicker than we realize and it is time to start planning. Many times we as parents try to come up with activities as the days arrive, but it ends up not working out. This year, let’s try to stay on top of the planning game and not spend tons of money every day! How can we do that? Here are some great ways that you can have a pre-planned summer activity list on a budget.
Visit a local beach
One great way to star the summer would be to pre-plan your summer activity of visiting the local beach on a budget. Many local beaches have a fee to park or enter. But when buying a season pass, the cost per trip is much less than randomly purchasing entrance. You can get a pass prior to the season beginning and then you will save money over all throughout the whole summer if you visit the local beach often.
Get library cards and go to their events
Another great summer activity on a budget is going to your local library. Depending on how wonderful your local library programs are, this place will be your best friend. Many of the programs at libraries are free or are offered for a low cost. They are engaging and often they are weekly programs. Find the right program that would be best for your children and be committed to going every week. This keeps everyone busy and another great summer activity on a budget.
Plan a scavenger hunt
Pinterest is a great way to plan summer activities on a budget. A scavenger hunt is a fun way to get the kids up and moving. Scavenger hunts can use math and reading skills throughout the hunt and get them exercising outside too. Use Pinterest to find an editable scavenger hunt so you aren’t out buying supplies. It will be a fun summer activity that can be done by the whole family!
Bicycling
Another great summer activity on a budget is bicycling. If your children already have bicycles, it would be fun to start creating fun competitions that kids can do on their bikes. Going on bike rides together as a family is also another great budget activity for the summer. Pack a picnic and ride the trails for a morning before it gets too hot. Not only is this a fun bonding experience, but it is great exercise for everyone in the family plus it is on a budget!
Summer night walks
If mornings are too hot to go bike riding, take the family for a summer night walk after dinner. Making this a daily routine is a fun family activity plus a great summer activity on a budget. You can even take the dog with you! Summer nights are beautiful so get outside with the family.
Local splash pads or playgrounds
If you have not found your local splash pads and playgrounds, research out which are the best locations with the least amount associated with them. Most playgrounds are free to enter but sometimes splash pads can come with a cost. The best place to look for this information would be your local towns park and recreation page. It’s a great way to spend the day by bringing a picnic lunch with you.
Movie discount day
During the school year, it might be hard to make a matinee for $2 Tuesday! But during the summer, this is a great summer activity on a budget. Get the schedule for the summer and determine with your kids which movies they want to go, book the first one in advance.
Make ice pops
Making ice pops is a really fun summer activity that you can do as many times as you like! Order an ice pop mold maker on Amazon and you can reuse it all summer. Take turns experimenting with the kids on what type of ice pops you will make. A mixture of fruit and juice can help you stay within your budget, plus it’s fun and tasty for the whole family.
Lemonade stand
If you are looking for fun and simple summer activities, why not teach your kids how to make a lemonade stand? It can be right outside your home and only a few supplies are needed. Not only will it help teach children about money, but it will create bonds in your community and give your children something to do during the day. A win for everyone!
Summer is a great time to spend time bonding with your family, but it can get pricey. By preplanning your summer activities, it can help you stick with your budget all summer long. Start planning now!
