Summer has officially begun here in Georgia! I wanted to share a little bit about how we tackle summer.
First things first – we make a summer bucket list. This is always a fun activity to hear what crazy things my kids want to do! This list is also helpful for me to have so that I can throw out some ideas if they get stuck :). We try to do everything on the list (within reason). I like to post this list in our dining room so that we see it every night and then it also helps us plan our days.
But what I do know is that summer can get expensive. With 3 kiddos, we have camps and childcare costs to work around as well. You might find yourself in the same boat and struggle to make time for fun family experiences because you are worried about your budget.
Here are some Free and Cheap ideas of things to do this summer!
FREE:
Lake We live in Augusta, Georgia and there is an amazing lake not far from us. In fact, lots of people here do not even know it is that close! Look up and see if there are any lakes near you!
Picnics Some days you just need a little adventure! Pack up your lunch and go and have a picnic. At a park. At a lake. In your backyard. Anything different makes things fun!
Playgrounds (some even have splash pads)Going earlier in the morning to play on the playground and then when it get hot, migrate on over to the splash pad!
LibraryI LOVE our local library. They have so many fun things planned. We also like to make trips there about twice a month to get new books to enjoy. Our rule over the summer is if you say “I’m bored”, you have to read a book for 30 minutes.
Movie night in the backyard (we borrow a projector) This is one of my favorite things to do at night. Quarantine helped us make this happen for the first time and now it is a tradition that will continue. We borrow a projector and show a movie on the side of our house. There is just something fun about watching a movie outside!
Catching fireflies Looking back on my childhood, one of my favorite things to do with my dad was catch fireflies in the backyard. This is still a fun tradition today. Place them in mason jars and watch them light up (just don’t forget to release them once the kids go to bed).
Camping in the backyard Set up that tent and have a fun adventure right in your backyard! Don’t have a tent? Look around on Facebook and see if any of your friends have one that they will lend to you! Also, no need to go buy anything – use what you have. Get some blankets and pillows and flashlights and enjoy and evening under the stars.
CHEAP:
Slushy Day at Sonic Make sure you order during happy hour!
Dollar Store Run Each kid gets $5 to spend at the dollar store and then use that afternoon. I always encourage them to work together to get toys or items that they can all use (i.e. pool toys, water balloons, puzzles)
What are some fun, cheap, or FREE things you are excited to do this summer?!?!
