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10
Low-Cost Activities To Do With The Kids
1) Go to the
library - Most libraries have story times for children
once a week. Take advantage of their free events like
concerts, art and crafts classes and science shows. Most
libraries also have computers available so the kids can
try out different software. Call your local library for a
list of events.
2) Walk, Walk,
Walk - Load the babies in the stroller, put the little
kids on the bikes , get the teenagers off the couch and go
out and walk. Not only will you and your children be
getting exercise but also it is a good way for the kids to
relax and talk to you about what's going on in their
lives. A great stress reliever.
3) Check out
the local Community Center- Community centers offer a wide
variety of classes from swimming to karate, from dance to
calligraphy. Community centers offer classes at an already
low price but most have "scholarships" for families and
students which will reduce or eliminate class fees.
4) Picnic in
the Park- Pack a picnic lunch and head for a park with a
playground. The smaller kids will keep busy on the swings
and ladders while the older kids can bring a Frisbee or
soccer ball to play with. Plop down a blanket for the
kids, bring a lawn chair and book for yourself, and let
the kids wear themselves out.
5) Community
events- Zoos and children's museums usually have reduced
and/or free days for children. Plays and symphonies often
have free performances during dress rehearsals. Pick up a
free parenting "throw away" paper usually found at
libraries, community centers and schools. These papers are
a good source of free events in your community.
6) Movie night - Rent a couple of movies or, better yet,
most libraries will let you check out videos for free.
Have everyone put on their pajamas, pop popcorn and bring
out the blankets to cozy up with.
7) Game night
- Turn off the TV, turn on the radio and bring out the
games from the closet. Play a different game each week.
Check out a card game book at the library and learn to
play different card games.
8) Go to
church- Find a church that fits your philosophy and
beliefs. When you find a good match for your family look
into the events that they have. Some of the larger
churches have
support
groups, camps for the kids (often offering scholarships),
picnics and other events.
A nice tradition to start in your family. 9) Garden -
From the littlest to the teenagers everyone can help with
the garden. Have the kids decide on their own flowers and
vegetables to plant. Easy to grow plants include
sunflowers and geraniums. If you don't have room for a
garden grow container plants on your deck or start an herb
garden on your windowsill. Have the kids water and
fertilize their plants regularly. Not only will this teach
them responsibility but they'll take pride in watching
their plant grow from seed to flower.
10) Volunteer-
Check out your local nonprofits to see what would be a
good fit for you and your family. Neighborhood clean-up
projects are good for all ages to participate in.
Delivering meals to seniors is another good project for
all age groups The benefits of volunteering are immense
for families. Giving back to the community will be
installed in your kids at a young age while giving your
family a nice tradition.
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the information at the bottom, including this, remains
intact. Reprinted from Single Parent Central,
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