8 Budget-Friendly Things You Can Do With Your Children This Summer That Are Actually Fun

School is almost out and summer is nearly here.

With your children home for the summer, you’ll need to find ways to keep them entertained.

Instead of shoving them in front of the TV screen, you can give your children the ultimate summer experience they’ll never forget.

While you might not be able to afford a trip to Disneyworld, or take a fancy trip around the world, you can give your children the summer of a lifetime – without going broke.

Here are 8 fun things you can do with your children this summer which are sure to create lasting memories:

  1. Water Play: Looking for ways to stay cool this summer? Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned water fight! Fill up some water balloons, turn on the sprinkler, and let your children have fun (and stay cool) during the hottest days of summer. You can even make your own “slip and slide” with a garden hose and a tarp.
  2. Outdoor Camping (In Your Backyard): Set up some tents (or make your own makeshift blanket fort) and camp out under the stars right in your own backyard. Share stories, laugh, and relax in the great outdoors. You can even roast marshmallows and make smores for an added treat.
  3. Day Trip: Take an afternoon adventure and explore a nearby town. Stop along the way and take pictures of scenic routes, bring a bag full of snacks and games to entertain young children in the car, and learn about a new place. Who knows, you might even discover your new favorite spot.
  4. Movie Under The Stars: Have a block party with other families. Hang up a sheet outside, grab a projector, and play a family friendly movie on the “big screen”. Kids will love watching their favorite movie in a new way, instead of on the TV screen indoors. Of course, make sure to have healthy snacks (like homemade fruit popsicles and fresh popcorn) available so you can dine out under the stars.
  5. Picnic In The Park: Who doesn’t love a summer picnic! Dice up some fresh fruits and veggies, and put together tiny sandwiches and have a picnic in the park. Bring a frisbee or a kite for extra fun activities to do together.
  6. Local Museum Tour: Take a field trip to a local museum this summer, as most are free or have discounted rates for families. Have your children explore a science center, or learn about history. Most museums have activities especially designed for kids, and you can set the tone that education can be fun.
  7. Free Concert: Summer is full of free activities. Check out your local town for a listing of events. There are often concerts in the park, dancing shows, and other activities your children will love.
  8. Outdoor Obstacle Course: Create an outdoor obstacle course and design your own life-size game. You can use jump ropes, hula hoops, cones, balls, and any other miscellaneous items! Have your child help you design the course, which will encourage their creativity and build up their confidence.

There are plenty of fun activities you can do with your children this summer to keep them entertained and happy.

Remember, the most important gift you can give your child is quality time.

Experiences and memories last a lifetime, and this summer you have the chance to build positive memories your children will always remember.

What is your favorite summer activity to do with your children?

Do you have a favorite summer memory from your own childhood?

Tell us about it in the comments section below.