Personally, I am always looking for productive things to do that are out of the house. I like to get out of the house for one reason or another almost every day. This part of my personality can be a problem, though, since many of the places that are out of the house cost money! What I have tried to come up with are a few activities that I can do with my son that don’t cost any money–besides gas of course.
Depending on where you live, most free activities take a little research. One of the best ways to find activities is to ask around. Likely, there are other mothers around you who know of some great places. Here are a few places that you can go most anywhere you live:
Bookstores
Some bookstores provide a storytime hour once or twice a week, especially during the summer. In my area, both the large bookstore chains as well as some larger independent stores have a weekly book-reading for children. In addition, bookstores might offer other free activities for kids. Check each store’s calendar.
Libraries
Public libraries are a fun place to take kids for an indoor activity. Maybe your local library has a children’s area that you can relax in for a minute while the kids read books, do puzzles, and find items to check out and take home. Also, check your library’s calendar for free activities or events for children.
Malls
Sometimes when my son is in one of those moods, and I really need to get him out of the house, we’ll simply go to the mall to play. The nearby mall has a play area that I can let him run around in while I sit down, read, or get some paperwork done. Also, a couple of times a month the mall schedules a free activity for kids in the play area. Of course the mall can be a tempting place to go if you are committed to not spending money. Make sure to bring snacks for yourself and the kids so you are not enticed by the food court.
Parks
The park, of course, is always a fun place to take the kids. Unfortunately, living in Arizona means that the park is pretty much off limits during most of the day throughout the summer because of the heat. In other areas of the country parks are a great option for entertaining kids during this time of year.