With hectic schedules and high prices for necessities, many families would like to spend time together on the weekends reconnecting with each other while not spending a lot of money. Fortunately, there are often activities that can be enjoyed for very little or no money. Take your family out during any season to learn more about the world around you and to enjoy spending time with one another.
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Make a list of several different items for your children to find the next time you go to a park, on a road trip or to a children's museum. Some examples include a type of tree seen occasionally in your area, a rose bush, three orange cars or a billboard for a certain business. Divide your family into teams and see who can find the most items in a specified amount of time. This type of activity fosters teamwork and will undoubtedly result in giggles and family togetherness.
Free Tours
When you visit businesses in your neighborhood, such as the bakery, the post office or the grocery store, ask if you can have a tour. While you may not be accommodated on a busy Saturday morning, the manager may offer to have you come back at another time for an up-close look at production. Consider gathering several families before asking to let a group of children and parents benefit from this learning experience. End your outing with a purchase from the business, and stop for lunch or a snack on the way home.
Picnic at the Park
Pack some easy-to-serve foods and head for the local park for a picnic on a sunny spring, summer or fall day. In addition to the usual picnic fare of sandwiches, fried chicken, pasta salad and potato chips, pack some fun items as well, such as brownies cut into fun shapes, gelatin "jigglers" or raw vegetables and a variety of dips. Bring along your stale bread crusts or stop by the store for a loaf of discount bread to feed the ducks or seagulls (if allowed by the park). Take a soccer ball or frisbee and run around with the kids, having fun while burning off some calories.
Revisit Your Youth
Remember the days when you were younger, and take your children to enjoy the activities that you once did. Show them how to play kick the can or stickball. Go to a high school football game and cheer on the home team. Take them to a roller skating rink, a miniature golf course or the bowling alley, and show off your once-perfect form.
Be Part of the Community
Many communities and towns offer free or inexpensive events throughout the year. See a high school play or a concert on your town's green. Take your children to participate in a festival or parade honoring the culture of your ancestors. Pitch in during your area's "clean up the parks" week, or walk in a walk-a-thon benefiting a local charity. These types of outings will help your family meet your neighbors while supporting the community.
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