Cheap Summer Activities for Children

The following is a post from contributing writer Dianna Kennedy. 

Your schoolwork is all done — now it’s time for some play! Looking for ideas for frugal family fun this summer? Here are ten ideas to get you started.

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Author's twin boys, examining a horseshoe crab

1. Just add Water

In the hot summer days of Kentucky, my children are happiest when they are wet. We plan to join a local pool, since we won’t be going on a beach vacation this year.

In our area, there are also a few small waterparks and the new fad is ‘splashgrounds’ — playgrounds with sprinklers and other water play.

Author's children, exploring a stump at a local park

2. Take them to the Park

I’m blessed to live in a region that has a huge, extensive park system. Do your research now, and plan out some visits to the parks in your neighborhood. One of my favorites is super shaded – perfect for beating the summer heat.

3. Grab a Book 

When it’s just too darn hot to hit the great outdoors, check out your local library or bookstores. Many will have summer programs for children, including storytimes, crafts and more. Looking for some summertime book ideas? Don’t miss my ocean and beachy themed post.

4. Head for a Hike 

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures in the morning or evening to go on a hike. Collecting bugs is one of my children’s favorite activities.

5. Crafts

When it’s just too darn hot outside, making crafts can keep your children busy and happy.

6. Backyard Campout

Want a stay-cation? Gather your sleeping bag, pillows and tent, and head for your back yard. It’s a fun change of scenery, but not so far away from home that small children will be scared.

7. Take Your Kids to the Ballgame

Enjoy America’s favorite past time – baseball! MLB games may be pricey, but check your local minor league team, or college teams. Most have specials where kids run the bases and more.

8. Sand Play

My kids love playing in sand almost as much as they love the water. Our sand box gets a work out spring, summer and fall! Tip: save yogurt containers for cheap sand toys.

9. Bowling – indoors or out!

My children have been to a few birthday parties at bowling allies, and LOVED it! Check your local bowling alley for summer specials.

Don’t have a bowling alley nearby? Try some bowling at home – set up in your kitchen, or even in the driveway.

10. A Trip to the Movies

Drive in movies are few and far between, but if you’re lucky enough to have one in your area, this would be a fun treat for your children.

Many movie theaters have summer movie specials for young children, with morning matinees around $2 per person. Our zoo has a monthly movie under the stars night, where families can bring blankets, coolers and enjoy a big screen show outdoors.

Do you have a favorite frugal summer activity that I’ve missed? Be sure and leave your ideas in the comment box! We’d love to hear from you!

Head over to  The Kennedy Adventures! to see if Dianna has hatched Baby 5.0! She’s the host of Saints and Scripture Sundays –everyone welcome to join in! You can find her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, as well as writing for Catholic Mothers Online. 

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