Fun Doesn't Have to Cost Money

One of the best things that has come from our economic reality has been that people are rethinking their priorities and getting connected to those things that are most important.  We all need a bit of fun in our lives, but we don't always need the gadgets, the game systems, the expensive tickets to enjoy a bit of relaxation. 

Virginia Saves is here to help you find some great ways to enjoy some fun without busting the bank.  This is also a great opportunity to teach children to prioritize their spending choices and to think in advance about activities they can do that don't cost a money.

Here are some ideas that we have collected, but we would love to hear yours as well:

Fun for Free Box: is a fun parent activity sheet that you can use with your children to plan ahead for activities that don't cost money.  You can create a box of activities you can do as a family and then an individual box of ideas that the child can use when they are bored and looking for something to do.

Libraries:  Check out your local library for fun free activities.

Money Bunnies:  Integrating a little learning as you plan your vacation can be a great opportunity to communicate to your children the things you value most.  To get you started, take a look at Money Bunnies Take a Vacation.  A fun story with some underlying principles that you can introduce to your children.  Parents can download a presenter's guide and additional activities to follow up the story here.

Parks: You might want to look into what local Parks and Recreation facilities have to offer.  Even state and national parks frequently offer some great free or low cost activities for kids.  Plan a picnic and a day of romp and fun.  Look to some of our family games section to integrate some fun with the great food.

Clubs: Have children become involved in a local kids club.  Churches and civic organizations often offer free fun things to do for kids in the summer.

Local Free Activities: Look to your local community calendar to see if there are activities offered in your city http://www.americantowns.com/ is a great website to check out activities not only in your town but also in other towns you might visit.  During the summertime you will find that these calendars can fill up with great fun.

Movies and Entertainment:  Do you enjoy concerts, ball games and plays?  Ask the management if they don't have volunteer usher positions that would allow you to enjoy the event without having to incur the costs!  Also check out Free Summer Movies: Regal Cinemas offer free family movies during the summer time.

More Ideas: Disney Family Fun Page: Great ideas for making summertime fun.

Share your favorite ways to enjoy free summer fun.  If you try out some of our suggestions tell us what you think.