Many families have been living with less money these past few years. Our family has certainly been in this situation. Our budget has shrunk to where extra things, such as vacations, simply do not fit anymore.
Fortunately, even though money has been tight, our family has enjoyed even more time together as a family. As gas prices go up and my husband’s salary shrinks, we have found many free activities we can do together – many without ever leaving our home.
Ideas for Family Fun at Home:
1. Campfire in the backyard
We have a fire pit in our backyard. We’ve been able to enjoy hours of enjoyment sitting around a fire talking, singing, and enjoying each other’s company.
Even people with the smallest yards can usually purchase a small chiminea or other outdoor firepit. Cooking hotdogs or marshmallows will heighten the experience even further.
2. Pitch a tent in backyard
Campground fees can add up, even if you’re camping with a tent. So why not pitch a tent in your backyard? Make it fun by cooking over the fire, hanging up a clothesline to try swimsuits and towels, try not to enter the house very often.
You can make the camping experience as authentic as you would like. Go fishing, let the kids run through the sprinkler, sit around in lawn chairs… there are endless possibilities. And there are so many learning opportunities you can take advantage of while camping.
3. Board games
Remember when we were children, and we spent hours playing games with the family? Board games and card games are a great way to have free fun with your family.
Most of us have a closet full of games the kids have received as gifts over the years. Dust them off and have a family game night. It’s a great way to get to know your children better.
4. Reading aloud
Reading to our children is so important. Having dad read aloud to the family at night can be a wonderful way to spend time together. Choose books which are just above the reading level of your oldest child.
Be sure to use expressive voices, making the experience fun. Check out these tips for making reading fun for your boys.
5. Movie night
You don’t have to go to an expensive theater in order to enjoy a movie. Watch a family friendly video together at home. Pop some popcorn or make some other yummy treats to enjoy together.
6. Bike rides
One trick to saving money is to use resources we already have versus purchasing new ones. Most families already have bikes which are stored in our garages gathering dust. Get them out and go for a bike ride.
It’s wonderful exercise and a great time for the whole family. More and more groups such as Rails to Trails are creating bike paths around the country. Search the internet to find some bike trails near your home.
7. Hikes
We are fortunate to live near some woods, where we can go on nature hikes whenever we’d like. Again, you can search the internet to find hiking trails in your area. Check out these tips you can take advantage of while hiking.
8. Be a Tourist in Your Home Town
Gas is expensive, so rather than heading across the country or even your own state, consider checking out some of the local attractions in your own town. Visit the local visitor’s bureau to look through brochures or Google the name of your home town plus “tourist attractions” to see what’s out there. You won’t believe how many fun opportunities there are nearby.
This is just a small sampling of ideas you can try to have fun with your family without breaking the bank. This year, replace your expensive vacation plans with some inexpensive activities you can do around home. You may find that your best summer memories occur when you relax at home as a family.
QUESTION: What are some ways that your family has fun at home? Please leave a comment below.
