Inexpensive Summer Fun for Kids

As a stay-at-home mom, summers can be challenging.  You have to find a way to keep the kids entertained all summer long without breaking the bank.  A couple of weeks before summer vacation starts I like to take the time to make a tentative plan of how our weeks will go during the hot, summer months.  And the more thrifty ideas, the better.  Below are some ideas on how to have fun with your kids this summer without dishing out too much dough.

• Day at the Zoo - Pack some snacks, a picnic lunch and drinks and head to your local zoo for the day.  Print free coloring pages including animals the kids will see at the zoo and bring them with a box of crayons, for a break from all the walking. 
• Miniature Golf - Check your mail for your free Valpak!  They usually have great deals for local miniature golf locations.  If you can't find a coupon, call your nearby miniature golf place and see if they have any summer events.  Our local Putt-Putt has a different even each day of the week, like: Wacky Wednesday with 3 attractions (18 holes, 20 arcade tokens and 3 batting cage tokens) for $10/person.
• Pizza Party - With a pizza party you kill two birds with one stone - something fun to look forward too and dinner served!  You can order in or let the kids make their own pizzas.  For extra fun try out a dessert pizza part.
• Sign Up at Your Local Pool - Check out the prices for your local pool.  They are most likely less expensive than you think.  If your church has a pool, they often only ask for a donation.  Whatever the cost, you may find it's worth it by the end of the summer.  It's a great way to keep the kids cool and good and tired for bedtime. 
• Treasure Hunt - You can find some great pirate stuff at your local Dollar General/Dollar Tree to help make a great treasure hunt for you and your little pirates.  Michael's craft store also has some great pirate crafts.  But since they can be kinda pricey, use them as inspiration for making your own.  You will be amazed at how much you can make with construction paper, crayons, scissors and tape.  (Click here to print a pirate hat and eye patch for free.)

• Sundae Party - Invite some of your kids' friends and ask them each to bring a fun sundae topping: licorice bits, sprinkles, Mini-M&M's, Oreo crumbs, etc.  Don't forget the whipped cream and cherries!  Let the kids get imaginative and try out some new sundae ideas.  If you'd rather not deal with the mess, head to an ice cream parlor.

However you choose to spend your summer this year, get creative, have fun and be safe!  For great FREE ideas check out my post Free Summer Fun for Kids.