11 Frugal Activities to Keep Kids Busy this Summer

I’m not a parent but I did spend many high school summers babysitting and tutoring my younger brothers and sisters. I’m afraid what we did is terribly old fashioned: swim at the local pool, tromp through neighborhood stream, design forts, etc. So I updated my list with low-budget or free activities. Feel free to add your own ideas by leaving a comment!

1. Public library often have for free events for children

2. The local department of parks and recreation may have low budget summer camps or one-day programs

3. Look for free days at local museums

4. Design a scavenger hunt for your kids with 10-15 items they can find nearby. You get a break while they search!

5. Help them set up a lemonade stand

6. Check if local retailers are offering in-store workshops or classes

7. Subscribe to FamilyFun Magazine, which has craft and project ideas mostly using supplies you already have in your home. Ten issues over a year are $10.

8. Purchase a sprinkler to connect to your hose so the kids can frolic in the water and cool off. (Note: if your water use is restricted, opt for a wading pool instead.)

9. Buy a bubble machine, which are relatively cheap. Make your own
bubbles with dishwasher soap and water.

10. Pull out the chalk sticks and let the kids loose. They are limited only by their imagination and sidewalk space. Hopscotch? Self-portraits? Tic-tac-toe?

11. Set up a schedule with other parents so each person has a day where they have all the kids over and run a camp at their house. They plan the activities while other parents get a day off.