With the school holidays approaching I thought I’d put together a checklist of ideas to entertain the children that won’t set you back financially. When you have a small family, activities like going to the movies or the zoo doesn’t cost nearly as much as when you have three or more children to cater for. For larger families the school holidays may end up being a costly couple of weeks, so here are some free (or low cost activities) to keep your children happy and entertained.
Take them to the Library:
In the school holidays, your local library is a free resource that is filled with fun activities for the kids. There are story and craft times on offer if you tap into these initiatives! If you are unaware of the times available, get on the internet and google your local library for an itinerary of events. If you haven’t already, get each child their very own library card. They will be excited to know that they can borrow books and dvd’s of their choice at no cost to you. They will be begging you to keep going back!
The Botanic Gardens:
The Botanic Gardens or your local park is a great start to a wonderful low maintenance day of fun! Pack a picnic lunch and explore and learn about the different native flowers on display! Bring a sketch pad and pencil and ask them to choose their favourite flower and draw it for you. They can colour it in when they get home and you can either frame it for them or stick it on the fridge as a reminder of your awesome day!
Hold a Garage Sale:
Even though this may initially sounds like a lot of work, it can in fact, in the long run prove to be beneficial. Get your child involved. Ask them to declutter their toy collection and any pocket money earned, they get to keep! Or, if the sound of a garage sound is too overwhelming, tell your child that you will pay them a minimal amount of money for each toy they decide to donate to charity, and let them spend that money at your local op shop.
Take them Op Shopping:
Every child loves a bit of retail therapy although some major chain stores may become expensive when you have more than one child to buy for. An op shop is perfect for satisfying both their needs and in keeping your pockets in check. Your child can pick up a wonderful and exciting bargain. One child’s trash is another child’s treasure!
Play Dates:
The thought of bringing yet another child into the mix when you already feel overwhelmed with your own may seem daunting. The reality is, that when they have a friend over they are occupied, happy, and for the most part, leave you to your own devices. Having a friend over not only advances their social skills outside of the classroom, it also creates long lasting childhood memories.
Cook with them:
Speaking from experience with my own children, the kitchen has always been a place where fun times have been had at little expense. Allowing your child to help make cupcakes, muffins, pizza, or whatever tickles their fancy kills two birds with one stone. On one hand they will learn life long skills, and on the other their lunch or snack time is sorted!
Go on a love heart treasure hunt:
Nature is a wonderful thing! There are many ordinary objects that naturally take the form of other objects. Go on a love heart treasure hunt and see how many things you can find that remind you of love! Take photos and be surprised at just how many you can collect!
Go Bush Walking:
If you live in an area where there is a national park or even a hiking track, it may be a fun idea to follow the trail and explore the rain forest! There are tracks made especially for children, and most of these are either free, or you may be asked to pay a small donation upon entry. To cut costs, bring a packed lunch, lots of water, and a camera just in case you spot some amazing wild life! Once you get back home, google any interesting flora or fauna that you’ve discovered to further their knowledge.
Take them to the Art Gallery:
Inject a bit of culture into your child’s life. Art Galleries are a free resource and a fun an exciting place for children to explore and grow their minds. Many art galleries have a children’s section where your child can explore art made by kids their own age. This may inspire them to make their own art work upon returning home.
The school holidays don’t need to send you broke. With a little imagination, the time will pass quickly, at little expense, and so much fun can be had!
What activities keep your children happy during the school holidays?
