Having the grandchildren over is a wonderful experience, but it can also be quite pricey. A simple trip to the cinema for a family of four can easily cost upwards of $80 when you include tickets and snacks. Similarly, fees for water parks and amusement parks can quickly add up, as can dining out at local restaurants. However, with a little ingenuity, you can create memorable experiences for your grandkids without breaking the bank.
1. Visit McDonald’s
While some people are critical of McDonald’s, it’s undeniable that the PlayPlace offers immense convenience. It’s entirely free to access, well-kept, and kids thoroughly enjoy it. The bright atmosphere is filled with other enthusiastic children, and grandparents have the option to relax on nearby benches while keeping an eye on the little ones. You don’t even need to purchase food to enjoy it; a shared coffee or a bottle of water suffices while the children have a great time.
2. Explore Local Playgrounds
Many suburban areas are served by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA) that tends to the maintenance of community amenities, including safe playgrounds. These playgrounds often feature climbing structures, swings, monkey bars, and plenty of open space for play.
You can uncover numerous playgrounds just a quick drive apart, turning the outing into a playground treasure hunt. As soon as they find a play area they fancy, let them enjoy while you relax on a bench nearby.
3. Utilize Your Public Library
Funded by your tax dollars, public libraries have evolved into modern multimedia hubs of learning. They boast a diverse selection of books, films, and music that appeal to children. Furthermore, libraries frequently host free events including story hours, movie showings, puppet presentations, crafting sessions, science demonstrations, and even poetry readings. Many also have budget-friendly snack options and sell gently used books, DVDs, and CDs at low prices. (See also: 7 Modern Reasons to Visit Your Local Library Today)
4. Enjoy Free National Park Days
While typically there is a nominal fee associated with entering a national park, several designated days throughout the year allow for free admission. In 2018, those days included January 15, April 21, September 22, and November 11. So, grab a picnic and take in the natural beauty of a national park without any expenses. (See also: How to Save on National Park Visits in 2018)
5. Participate in Free Craft Sessions at Home Depot or Lowe’s
Hardware stores recognize that offering complimentary craft activities for kids can encourage store visits, but a purchase is not mandatory. Visit your closest Home Depot or Lowe’s during their next children’s craft event and enjoy watching the grandkids create items like bird feeders or wooden cars. The best part is that they get to take their creations home. This engaging and free activity typically lasts for a few hours on Saturday mornings.
6. Attend Free Concerts
Many communities host free summer concerts as a way to increase foot traffic at malls, farmers markets, and other shopping locations. This initiative effectively draws crowds, and attendees often purchase food from vendors on-site. You can enjoy the music without spending a penny, and a quick online search of “free concerts near me” will bring up numerous options. These events are usually held outdoors, rain or shine, so remember to bring your own seating and blankets. It’s a delightful way to spend quality time watching the grandkids have fun while also supporting local initiatives.
7. Bowl for Free
Bowling alleys across America are partaking in a program known as Kids Bowl Free. By registering your grandchildren, they can enjoy two complimentary games of bowling each day throughout the summer—this is a giveaway worth over $500 per child. Check which bowling centers in your vicinity are participating. If you wish to join in, many bowling alleys offer reduced rates for seniors, and you can find excellent deals online via platforms like Groupon and LivingSocial.
8. Organize a Picnic
Kids are often cooped up indoors, so why not encourage some outdoor fun with a family picnic at a nearby park? No need for elaborate arrangements; just gather a few blankets, some folding chairs, snacks, and perhaps a few balls or Frisbees for entertainment.
Before you set out, involve the grandkids in preparing food. This not only fosters their independence but also makes them feel engaged in the outing. Making sandwiches, packing fruits and veggies, and preparing lemonades or iced water can all be enjoyable tasks together. (See also: 20 Cheap, Fun Things to Do This Summer)
9. Visit a Museum on Free Admission Days
When kids hear “museum,” many envision dusty artifacts and stale exhibits. However, contemporary museums often feature exciting interactive displays that captivate young visitors. A recent favorite was the Star Wars and the Power of Costume exhibit from the Smithsonian, which drew crowds of families excited to explore.
Most museums provide specific days with no admission fees and senior discounts. Plan an expedition to one of these museums (arrive early, as free days can be busy) and expose your grandkids to the wonders that educational institutions have to offer. (See also: How to Visit Museums for Free)
10. Involve Them in Gardening
Gardening can be enjoyable for kids without requiring hard labor. Encourage them to assist in enjoyable tasks such as pulling weeds, planting flowers, pruning bushes (with supervision), watering plants, and more—activities that may feel like chores for adults can be fun for children. (See also: 13 Simple Gardening Skills Anybody Can Master)
11. Set Up the Sprinklers
If it’s a warm, sunny day and watering restrictions allow, turn on the sprinklers while you’re out gardening. The grandkids can don their swimsuits and splash around for hours. Affordable attachments for hoses that create fun water spray patterns are available at most major stores, and you can also find Slip ‘n’ Slides for around $20.
12. Fly a Kite
Craft a kite, then enjoy flying it with the grandkids. There are countless online instructions for creating various types of kites with inexpensive materials found at home, or you can purchase vibrant kites for $10-$20. Head to a spacious local park and relish the joy as the grandchildren watch the kite soar.
