5 ways to enjoy summer on a budget

Summer is such a wonderful time of year. Even more so if you have little ones to enjoy the long, sunshine filled days with. And while we enjoy the summer months as a family, spending quality time together either at home or abroad, the endless array of days out, zoos visits, theme parks, swimming pools, meals out and ice cream treats can certainly take a toll on your weekly budget.

Not blowing your budget and keeping your little ones entertained through the summer months can certainly feel like a bit of a balancing act but don’t worry. Here I’ve gathered 5 ways you can enjoy your summer on a budget and still keep the children entertained. Good luck!

Head to the library

Who says that they can’t do something educational? The library is usually a very busy place through the summer with lots of activities for all ages to participate in. From reading clubs and challenges with prizes to be won, guest children’s authors, even cinema events and amateur dramatic performances! And not forgetting, the children can take out as many books as they wish meaning even the most avid reader won’t run out of material. If you want to combine this with a bit of creativity, head over to Aura Print, where you can get free summer-themed bookmarks to use in their borrowed reads. A perfect, personalised reminder of their summer reading. 

Get planting

There’s lots of fun to be had in your own backyard, and planting something new and exciting in your outdoor space is the perfect way to spend a (rewarding) afternoon. From fruits and vegetables, to pretty flowers, bushes or even trees – check out The Tree Center for the latest information about which trees are best suited to your garden – there’s a huge array of choice out there. And planting, cultivating, caring and watching their little seeds and shrubs grow is a wonderful lesson you can teach your children about patience and nature.

Go for a nature walk

The summer season is one that’s a busy time for wildlife, so you’re sure to see plenty of it when you head out for a nature walk. You could choose an area that’s well known for its nature trails, or you could see what you can find at a local nature spot, or even in your own neighbourhood. Insects, minibeasts, flowers, trees, mammals and birds. Get the kids to make a record of their findings and even take photographs with your smartphone.

Paint some rocks

This is an activity that keeps on giving! When you’re out and about, collect as many flat stones and rocks as you can. Take them home, paint them, let them dry and then go and hide them in your neighbourhood for other residents to find. If you wish you could even write on them that they should be re-hidden elsewhere to keep the game going!

Have a board game afternoon

There will be days when the weather makes you retreat indoors. Often a day that fills parents with dread. So, keep your little ones busy with plenty of board game fun! You could even make an evening of it if you wanted, with pizza, snacks and lots of fun. It certainly gets them away from the TV for a short while.