When do your kids get out of school for summer vacation? Maybe the better question is what are your kids going to do with all that free time? Other parents in your area will be looking for answers to the same question, so why not team up with them?
Get together with a group of parents who live nearby and have children that are close to the same age as your children. You can begin planning outings together so that each family can get in on some group discounts.
You might want to consider going in on season passes to a nearby amusement park or water park as well. Many offer buy one get one free discounts, or “bring a friend” deals during slow times throughout the season. Your family as well as your friends may be able to take advantage of this opportunity.
Since season passes generally don’t cost much more than a one day ticket, it may pay off to go ahead an choose the pass. You might even be able to work something out so that the other parents will take turns taking the kids, at least once in a while. Then, you’ll take a turn another time to give them a break.
Plan other outings such as visiting the park or the local pool as well, or take turns hosting activities at your homes. The host family will be responsible for planning a craft, activity, or outing, and will need to provide the necessary supplies. It’s also a good idea to provide snacks, or at least beverages.
There is no need to collect money if you do it this way, because each family will take turns supplying materials and snacks. Another alternative is to have the host family provide supplies while another family brings along the snacks.