Monday, July 18, 2016

14 Fun and Frugal Summer Activities for Kids

It’s summer in Michigan and it’s hot out. If you have kids at home, you know how difficult it can be to keep them occupied … without spending a ton of money. We’ve come up with a list of 14 fun and frugal summer activities for you and your kids to try out!
  1. Take in a free or cheap movie. The new JC Cinema (former Cheap Flicks) in Battle Creek has great movie times for kids and some low ticket prices. And check out Bogar Theatre, downtown Marshall, for BYOB Monday's (bring your own bowl) and get your popcorn for free!
  2. Go swimming. Have a gym membership that also has a pool? How about the YMCA? Better yet, head over to Full Blast and for just $9, kids can use both the indoor and outdoor water parks for the day!
  3. Play board games. Let the kids take turns choosing games and have a good old fashion game day!
  4. Go bowling. Marshall Lanes has a Wednesday special where you can get three games of bowling for just $6!
  5. Head to IKEA. The closest IKEA might be in Canton, but you can head over there for the free AC, drop the little ones (who are potty trained) off at Smalland and enjoy an hour of free browsing. Then grab a $1 ice cream cone on your way out.
  6. Head to the library. Go to the library for free wifi and a plethora of books. Marshall District Library has weekly classes for both young tots and older kids. From storytime to game nights and more! And of course there is the summer reading program to participate in with incentives for readers of all ages.
  7. Starbucks. For the cost of a cup of coffee and a treat for the kids you can get an hour of internet browsing and they can read comic books on the tablet.
  8. Dollar Store finds. Give each kid a dollar and head to the local dollar store (or Target’s Dollar Spot). Everyone will find something fun to bring home and you won't be out a ton of money.
  9. Park time. Head to Ketchum Park, Bridge Park or even your area elementary school and spend an hour or so playing on the playground.
  10. Backyard cool off. Set up a baby pool or slip and slide in the shade, and sip on icy lemonade, homemade popsicles and chilled summer fruits. You can even have a picnic in the shade or backyard camping experience!
  11. Hibernate. During the coolest parts of the day spend some time outside and use the middle of the day (10-4) to stay indoors and nap, color, have a little screen time and/or play games.
  12. Get your build on. Most kids enjoy building things. Get out the Legos, Lincoln Logs, Playmobile and similar toys and have a giant build-a-thon! The only rule is you have to use everything.
  13. Free museum days. Kids N’ Stuff in Albion has a free day each month. Or check out the Kalamazoo Valley Museum where general admission is free during regular operating hours!
  14. Take a craft class. Check out Michael’s in Battle Creek and sign up for a craft class. Learn to paint. Create a scrapbook. Find new uses for yarn, and much more. Most classes start at just $5!

If you want your kids to turn out well, spend twice as much time with them, and half as much money. ~ Abigail Van Buren