This summer we did not put my 5-year-old in summer camp or in a summer program. That means we have to be pretty creative in finding activities to keep this little guy busy.
I made a bucket list of things to do this summer with the little guy and realized that there are other mamas that could use this list.
Because we are saving up for a big ticket item, I had to make sure that I found some free and cheap things to do this summer.
Here are some free and cheap things to do this summer that we are doing or have planned to do:
- Beach. My son loves the beach and it doesn’t take much to get him tired once we get there. Living on the east coast makes it easy to go to the beach on the weekends.
- Pool. Luckily our subdivision has a pool that we can walk to when it is not too hot. This is a great alternative if there is no beach nearby.
- Movies. There are movie theatres that have dollar movies and early bird specials. Typically these specials are during the week. So, check out your local movie theatre to find out what specials they have.
- Activity books. My son is at the age where he is starting to enjoy activity books. I have been grabbing a few at the Dollar Tree every now than for him. He is still at the age I do have to assist him with the directions. Once he finds a page to color then I am free for a few minutes.
- Indoor games. Before the summer break even started I searched Pinterest for activities to keep my kids busy. This is a good one with great indoor games. This comes in handy, especially for the rainy days.
- Playground. It has been pretty hot and we tried going to a few outdoor playgrounds, but end up leaving early. Instead, I take my son out for ice cream at Chick Fil A, McDonald’s or Burger King and then let him play on their indoor playgrounds.
- Library. Sometimes there are activities for the kids at the library. Most times I let the little guy pick out a few books to read in the library and a few to take home to read. It is nice to go and get some peace and quiet too.
- Skating. Some skating rings will offer a program for kids to skate free on select days. You will still have to rent the skates or bring your child’s personal skates. And don’t forget to bring socks!
- Bowling. This is on the bucket list for the summer. I have heard of programs where kids can bowl for free.
- Home Depot. Once a month Home Depot host workshops for kids that are free. I have been taking my son for over a year now and he loves it. Check online to see when your local Home Depot will host another workshop. There are also workshops for adults as well that you might want to check out.
There you have it. My short list of free and cheap things to do this summer with the kids. Let me know what’s on your list!
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