Feature Article: 5 Affordable Summer Activities for Children

By Sheila Buck

Parents sometimes find it hard to keep their children occupied during the summer months. Many summer camps and other programs cost money that families may not have. The following are some ideas for summer activities that are affordable, and the children will have fun doing them.

• Summer camp is an activity that most kids want to participate in. These types of camps can sometimes cost a few hundred to more than a thousand dollars. They are still worth looking into because some summer camps offer reduced rates or scholarships if the family meets the income guidelines.
• Some areas offer summer recreation programs for free. Children are able to enjoy socializing with other kids from the neighborhood as well as crafts, swimming and other fun activities. The school sometimes sends home notices about summer recreation programs. The town or city hall may also know of such programs. You can also check with the library.
• Your child’s school may have a summer reading program for him or her to participate in. If your son or daughter loves to read, this is a good program to look into. There is often a certificate or prize awarded for program completion.
• A trip to the local playground is always fun. Your child will be able to play with other children. Have your child pack a lunch and have a picnic. Some of the local playgrounds may have a sprinkler or pool. If so, be sure your child brings a towel and change of clothes in order to get wet.
• If your child is seeking a good time with friends, but doesn’t want to leave the house, allow for camping in the back yard. Set up a tent and let your child invite some friends over for a camp out. Make sure they have plenty of blankets in case it gets cold. Let them make sandwiches and other snacks for them to have on hand. They can tell ghost stories and have a good time.

There are many ways to keep your children busy through the summer months. With a little searching, summer camp may be an option. If it’s not, brainstorm with your child to help find fun and creative ways to stay busy, that are also affordable.

*********************************************************

Sheila Buck is the single mom of two teenage boys. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Clinical Psychology. Sheila is a freelance writer, and also writes books and short stories in her spare time. Sheila also writes for Frugal Recipes.