11 Inexpensive Activities to Do With Kids This Summer
Summer can be the most exciting time for kids — no school and more free time to explore and grow. If you are like me though, I always struggle with things to do with my girls to keep them interested, learning and seeking new adventures. Here is a list of my top 10 free (or merely free) activities to seek out in your area.
1) Library Time
Did you know that most libraries have a wonderful children’s area with not only books but interactive toys, reading areas & usually a class or 2 that kids can be part of for free. Check your local library’s site to find out with their special activities are for the week but also don’t underestimate just going to look around and enhance their minds with picking out some books to read at the reading nooks/tables.
2) Botanical Gardens
Let your kids get a hands on experience with plants, flowers, insects and more at your local botanical gardens. Most of the time a walk through the gardens is free or by donation so grab a map and go explore.
3) Roam a Wildlife Sanctuary
There are many free (or donation) based zoos/wildlife sanctuaries across the US. Here in Jupiter, we have a wonderful one called Busch Wildlife that my kiddos love–especially because there is this precious whistling duck named Stu that my kiddos have called their own. Check the internet to find a local sanctuary by you. If you don’t have a donation based sanctuary check to see if your local zoo has a kids enter for free (or discount) day as most have those as well.
4) Learn About Farm Life at the Farmer’s Market
Check to see when your local farmer’s market happens and take your kids there to kill 1/2 a day. You can talk to them about growing flowers, raising animals, crafting and more as you explore each stand.
5) Head to a Fishing Spot
Fishing is a relaxing sport that can be done in pretty much any pond, lake or ocean that allows it. A ton of state parks also have fishing rods you can rent or borrow if you need equipment. Teach your kids the peacefulness of sitting out by the water waiting for a fish to bite is beyond wonderful.
6) Go for a Hike
One of my favorite things to do with my girls is go for a hike (through our neighborhood). If you live in a big city you may be thinking we can’t really hike but you can, you just have to be a little imaginative. Suit up in some “hiking gear” and let your kiddos know you are going for an adventure. In the city point out different historical buildings etc and if you hike in the woods point out plants and insects.
7) Set Up a Lemonade Stand
This is a super fun activity to do with the younger kiddos. Have them help make a sign, stir together some lemonade, gather some snacks and set up a table for their very on lemonade stand. They will feel a sense of pride that their hard work pays off when they get their first customer.
8) Run & Play at a Playground
Now this is free & favorite around kids just about any age as it lets their creative minds go. For the older kids bring a soccer ball or football to toss around and for the younger kids just wait until you see the games they will come up with chasing each & sliding down the slides.
9) Head to the Beach
If you are fortunate enough to live by a beach or lake you can easily spend the entire day just relaxing, playing in the waves or having fun with some games you pack. We love to play corn hole, build sandcastles and jump the waves together. Pack a lunch, snacks and some juice boxes for a great day!
10) Cool Down at a Splash Pad
Most cities now have public accessible splash pads. Pro tip: always carry bathing suits and towels in your car so when you see a splash pad area you can jump out and take advantage of cooling down in the summer heat.
11) Get Creative at your Local Home Depot
Did you know that once a month on Saturday morning, Home Depot (and maybe other local home improvement stores) have a free kid class? At this class they could learn how to build a birdhouse or bookends or construct a wooden model plane. Check your local hardware store’s website for more details.