Summer, summer, summertime!! It’s the fun time of the year…it’s summer. But, we all know that it can also be one of the most expensive times of the year as well. Here is a list of five free or low cost activities to do with the kiddos. Also included are strategies to make each suggestion a learning opportunity as well.
- Local Library- check out the schedule of events for the library in your area. Our library offers story time segments; host authors, speakers, and classes; have activities, puppet shows, scavenger hunts, and game areas in the kid’s room and provide computers and tablets for on site use. All of these services are free with the use of your library membership.
- Michael’s- this craft superstore provides opportunities throughout the summer during their Camp Creativity program that allows your kiddo to participate in “make it, take it” sessions. All of the supplies are included for the low cost of $3 per child. Some of the sessions offered are completely free. Check out their schedule for dates, times, activity details, and prices. The fun doesn’t stop there, they also offer Kids Club activities every Saturday as well.
- AMC Theatre- from June 5th to August 14th, for just $4, your child will receive admission to a movie as well as a kid size popcorn, drink, and candy. Adults can take advantage of this deal too. Compared to the regular $9, that’s a great price. Click here for participating locations.
- Bowling- participating bowling alleys will allow your child to bowl 2 free games a day Monday-Friday. Parents and adults can play for a discounted fee. Shoe rentals are separate from the package. Click here to register your kiddos for summer bowling.
- Pro or Minor League Sports- summer sports is always fun for the entire family. Our local minor league baseball Fireflies team offers discounted tickets for kids on Monday evenings for just $5 and dinner is included. There is also a jump house play area, mascot meet and greet, and other fun activities in the stadium. Check your local sports teams to see what discounted summer packages they have available.
You can enhance each activity and extend their learning with the following tips:
- Read a book that discusses the topic/activity
- Ask your kiddos to share at least three things they enjoyed about the activity
- Have them write, draw, or drite (a combination of the two) about their experience in their journal
- Engage them in conversation where they connect the activity to something else they’ve experienced, learned, or saw (read about)
- Assist them researching facts and preparing a written/oral report or project displays
We’ve already kicked-off the summer with some of the fun activities on this list. Stay tuned for recaps of each one as well as another list of suggested activities that are free or low in cost.
Until next time,
Xoxo