Strengthening the Family Bond on a Shoestring Budget

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Your children mean the world to you. They're the reason you get up each day and press on. However, many parents spend very little quality time with their kids. The pandemic brought to light the importance of making the most of each day. Now, families have redirected their efforts to fit in as much time with their loved ones as possible. The good news is, even if your finances aren't where they were just a year prior, there are an abundance of inexpensive things you can do together.

A Long Drive

Spur of the moment let's get in the car and just drive to nowhere in particular is not only exciting but creates a memorable first-time experience for the entire family. A long drive with no particular destination is something that every member of your family will retain fond memories for years.

Crafts

Kids enjoy making things. What better way to encourage creativity than having an afternoon dedicated to crafts. It's a wonderful time-filler for a rainy day. Go to any craft store and pick up items like pom-poms in assorted colors and sizes, pipe cleaners, scraps of material, a bag of buttons, colored paper, and glue sticks. Then let your child's imagination take over.

Return of Family Gatherings

Summertime is the perfect time of year to host your annual family barbecue. Last year the tradition was put on hold. However, now with new vaccines showing promise, the backyard barbecue returns. Put up a 10x10 tent or two, add a few folding tables and chairs and add fun activities to keep children and adults entertained.

Nature Walks

A visit to a national park is a wonderful experience. Take a walk along a dirt trail and see nature, unaltered, in its natural beauty. Bring a small box to collect unique leaves and rocks. Look for ladybugs, grasshoppers, and frogs. The serene setting without electronic distractions makes it easy to capture your child's attention. A walk in the park helps to reduce stress and get your body some necessary exercise.

The Library

Reading is essential for everyone. A fun way to encourage reading is to visit the library. It has a seemingly endless collection of books on just about any topic. Sign each child up for their very own library card. Visiting once each week or twice monthly will enhance their vocabulary and comprehension skills. Most libraries have reading rooms and different daily activities including storytime, puppet shows, and after-school programs.

Family Game Night

Technology does serve a purpose. However, it's good to take a break from the screen and indulge in board games. Board games are fun and bring the entire family together. Along with playing comes memorable conversation. It's a great way to learn more about your children.

Museums

Every state has a few museums. There are space, science, dinosaur, and railroad museums to name a few. It's a fun day for all. Many museums are free or have a small donation fee at the door. They are a wonderful way to teach children about various topics while sharing an afternoon together.

Special Recipe

Children love to mix things and make concoctions. Cooking is a life skill they will need in the future. Having them help with the prep work on things like banana nut bread and individual pan meatloaves has a zero out-of-pocket cost while providing many benefits.

You don't have to spend hundreds of dollars weekly to keep children entertained. There are many activities families can do together for little or no money required. 

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