Most parents would concur that hearing their child utter the words, “I’m bored” can be immensely frustrating, especially when surrounded by a plethora of toys and books that should be entertaining. To safeguard your sanity and keep your child occupied, here are some low-cost or even free activities to explore over the summer.
Free Courses: Many free craft lessons are readily available. All it requires is a little bit of your time to register and attend. While this may introduce more items into your home, it promises half an hour of fun for your children. Some notable free programs for kids are offered by Lowes, Home Depot, and Michael’s.
Consider Vacation Bible Schools: Numerous churches host Vacation Bible Schools that usually run for a week, for three to four hours each day. Children typically enjoy these activities immensely. However, as this is religious in nature, ensure you’re comfortable with it before enrolling your non-religious kids. Although some churches may charge a minimal fee, it’s generally reasonable considering the variety of activities children get to participate in.
Organize Movie Night Swaps: With a bit of coordination, this can be a successful initiative. Assemble two to four groups of parents and agree to take turns hosting a dinner/movie night. An affordable meal, such as tacos or mini pizza, along with popcorn makes for a great evening. Affordable rentals are usually available at Redbox. If the kids become too energetic, a game of tag or relay races can be organized outdoors. This arrangement works well for both parties – the children have fun, and the parents get a few hours to themselves each night.
Look Out for Cheap Movie Screenings: Many local theaters offer special kid’s shows in the summer. For example, Regal Theaters and Cinemark Theaters screen a different family movie every week for just .50-$1 per ticket. Saved air conditioning costs for those two hours would likely offset that expense. To resist the temptation of the candy counter, ensure your kids are well-fed beforehand.
Purchase Their Favorite Movies: Buying movies that your children love to watch repeatedly is a worthwhile investment. Having these films handy allows another amusing alternative when boredom strikes. Buying DVDs online can be more affordable and offers a wide variety. Consider engaging other parents in this initiative, you could swap films once your kids desire a change.
Summer is when children create precious memories. Explore your local community’s website for more options and classes. It’s common for parents to overlook exciting opportunities because they presume their children won’t be interested. However, children often surprise us with their eclectic taste. Look out for free classes, plays, and concerts in your local area in addition to these.
