I was reading a blog post by Tricia Edgar this morning called “How Goes the Outdoor Challenge?” It got me to thinking about things my kids and I could do this spring. As a single mom, I don’t have a lot of money to budget for activities, but there are a lot of free and cheap things that can be done with kids. Here’s what I found:
1. Take a nature walk or hike. Stop along the way to talk about the things you see: leaves, rocks, birds, animal tracks, etc.
2. Go for a bike ride: Your bikes have probably been stored away all winter. Take them out, dust them off, strap on a helmet, and go for a spin.
3. Head to the playground: This one is always a favorite in my family. I love to invite my “mom-friends” along for a play date.
4. Plan a picnic: Have your kids help prepare the food and pack the necessary eating utensils, and head out for a picnic.
5. Blow bubbles: Make a bubble solution by mixing 1 part dishwashing soap to 10 parts water. Add a quarter-size pour of white karo syrup for sturdier bubbles (you could also add glycerin instead of the karo syrup, but it’s expensive).
6. Plant a garden: Plant some vegetables of flowers and let your kids help with the garden’s daily upkeep.
7. Sporting events: Root for your local high school (or middle or elementary school) team by attending their baseball game.
8. Go bowling: Not every day in spring is going to be warm and sunny. Bowling is a great rainy day activity.
9. Visit the zoo: This one is sure to be a favorite with kids (and parents) of all ages!
10. Visit a museum: Another fun, inexpensive, rainy day activity.