Summer Family Activities On A Budget

It’s that time of year again Mummas. With the summer holidays fast approaching and schools preparing to close the gates for 6 whole weeks, it’s down to us to entertain, educate and enrich our children day in, day out.. Or at least keep them alive.

Of course, school holidays are a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time with our little people, but planning activities can put a strain on our budgets and our sanity. The good news is, you don’t have to break the bank to create lasting memories and still have a great time.

Here are some family activities on a budget that will keep everyone happy during the school holidays.

1. Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails

One of the best and most affordable ways to spend time together as a family is by exploring country parks and nature trails.

My daughter and I on a walk in West Sussex

Many country parks offer free entry and have a variety of amenities such as playgrounds, eating areas, and walking trails. Pack a picnic, bring some outdoor games like frisbee or football, and enjoy a day in the great outdoors. Not only is this a cost-effective way to spend a day, but it also gets everybody moving and encourages a love for nature. My kids were so excited about the bumble bees, butterflies, flowers, birds and the wild garlic we found on our walk recently. Needless to say they were both pretty exhausted by the time we got home, so bedtime was a dream. Win win 😊

2. Visit the Local Library

This is one of our favourite hang outs during school holidays, last half-term we made some cool stain glass window dragons at a children’s workshop to hang in the window at home.

Stain glass dragon workshop

Libraries provide a treasure trove of free resources and activities. Many offer special holiday programs for children, including story-time sessions, craft workshops, and movie afternoons. Additionally, borrowing books, movies, and games from the library can provide hours of entertainment at no cost. Encourage your children to participate in a summer reading challenge or explore new topics that interest them.

3. DIY Craft Day

Greta and Frank's artwork - with a little help!

Get creative at home with a DIY craft day, perfect for those overcast days, or when you are all beached out. Gather supplies such as paper, markers, glue, and recyclable materials, and let your kids’ imaginations run wild. You can find countless craft ideas online that cater to all age groups and skill levels. From making homemade cards to constructing intricate models, crafting is a fantastic way to develop fine motor skills and encourage creativity. Plus, it’s an activity that can be done indoors, perfect for rainy days.

4. Organise a Treasue Hunt

My kids LOVE making treasure maps, it’s easy and fun to do. Soak some paper in a baking tray filled with black tea and coffee mixed, after a few minutes hang out to dry. Once dried, tear the edges, you can even singe them with a lighter for extra effect (obviously grown ups only for this bit) and then scale the local green area / park or even your back garden for the map and add some pirate themed effects.

The treasure hunt itself is a fun and engaging way to keep kids entertained. Create a list of items for them to find. You can tailor the difficulty of the hunt based on the age of your children. For an added twist, create clues and riddles that they need to solve to find each item. This activity promotes problem-solving skills and teamwork, and it’s completely free.

5. Visit Free Community Events

Keep an eye out for free community events in your area. Many towns and cities host free concerts, outdoor movie nights, and festivals during the school holidays. These events often feature live entertainment, food stalls, and activities for children. Attending these events is a great way to experience the local vibe and enjoy a fun day out without spending much money.

6. Have a Cooking Day

Turning mealtime into a fun activity is a win, win. Choose a few simple recipes that your children can help with, such as homemade pizzas, cookies, or sandwiches. Cooking together teaches valuable skills such as measuring, following instructions, and basic nutrition. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to bond as a family and enjoy a delicious meal that you’ve all contributed to.

7. Backyard Camping

If you’re looking for an adventure without the cost of a camping trip, set up a campsite in your own garden if you have the space. Pitch a tent, roll out the sleeping bags, and have a family camping night under the stars. You can tell stories, make snacks, and enjoy the experience of sleeping outdoors without leaving the comfort of home. You get all the fun of camping without the campsite fees and travel.

8. Board Game and Puzzle Marathon

My kids and I love playing games, Giraffes in Scarfs, Smelly Wellies and Shopping List Game to name a few. The most popular game in our house at the moment is Snakes and Ladders, classic! So on an overcast day, dust off those board games and puzzles and have a family game day. Board games and puzzles are not only entertaining but also help develop critical thinking, strategy, and teamwork skills. For added excitement, organise a tournament with small prizes for the winners.

9. Explore Museums and Art Galleries

We are regulars at our local natural history museum, mainly due to the butterfly house and bee hive. My kids love going and there is usually a topical theme, trail or quiz to enjoy during school holidays. Many museums and art galleries offer free or discounted entry for children during the school holidays. Visiting these cultural institutions can be educational, inspiring and fun. Check online for special exhibitions or interactive displays that cater to young visitors. Some museums also offer hands-on activities and workshops, providing an enriching experience for the whole family.

10. Host a Family Talent Show

Encourage creativity and confidence by hosting a family talent show. Each family member can prepare a short act, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or comedy. Set up a stage area in your living room and let everyone showcase their talents. This activity is sure to provide lots of laughter and applause, and it’s a wonderful way to support and celebrate each other’s unique abilities.

11. Go on a Photo Safari

All you need for this is a smart phone and a suitable location, such as a park, beach, or town area. Let the kids take turns taking pictures based on specific themes or items on a list, or if there is more then one grown-up play in teams. Afterward, gather together to share and compare your photos. This activity encourages observation, creativity, and appreciation for the local area.

12. Plan a Day Trip

Consider taking a day trip to a nearby town or attraction that you’ve never visited before. Look for places with free or low-cost admission, such as botanical gardens, historical sites, or playgrounds. A change of scenery can be refreshing and exciting, and you can often find hidden gems close to home. Plan your trip in advance to take advantage of any discounts or special offers you can find online.

School holidays don’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. With a bit of creativity and thought, you can plan a variety of memorable experiences for your family without straining your budget. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, getting crafty at home, or discovering new places, these budget-friendly family activities will help you make the most of your time together. So, get ready to have fun, learn new things, and create lasting memories with your little ones.