Monday, June 6, 2011

FREE Summer FUN for KIDS!

I am a frugal Mom (who isn't these days) so I am always on the lookout for FREE activities to do with my kids - especially over the summer months!  When the weather is nice most of our kids will have no problem entertaining themselves, but it's the not so nice days that I worry about!  I started doing some research and was surprised at the number of FREE activities and opportunities that are available.  I am very happy to share what I found and would love to have you leave a comment if you know of more so that we can all combine our knowledge and give our kids a fun-filled FREE Summer!


The following activities are 100% FREE (according to the information on their various websites).
  • Kids Bowl For FREE: 
    This website is easy to navigate and has a map of the United States, simply click on your state and you will be provided with a list of participating bowling alleys listed by City.
  • Lowe's Build & Grow:
    Clinics for kids to build a pre-determined wooden project.  Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certificate.  Class size is usually limited to a specific number of kids so register early.
  • Home Depot Kid's Workshops:
    Held the first Saturday of each month (plus additional dates for special projects).  Kids ages 5-12 will get to make and keep a project and they will also receive a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.
  • Michaels Crafts Passport to Fun:
    Crafts from around the world, free for kids.  Click on the link to see the various activities (instructions to complete at home are also available).  Once you have had a chance to see what is available, find your local store's location and website to see when the in-store Passport to Fun Events are scheduled.  Michaels also offers craft classes for both adults and children that are low cost.  
  • Public Libraries:
    Most local public libraries have a variety of free summer programs for kids, click on the link to find your local city or county library.
  • Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program:
    Kids read 8 books over the summer, record the books they read and their recommendations in their own downloadable book journal.  Once 8 books have been read just take the completed journal into your local Barnes & Noble and exchange it for your FREE book!  A downloadable parent activity book is also available. 
My kids and I have not had a chance to try any of these programs yet, but we are looking forward to participating in some of them.  Now we have some fun things to look forward to on our rainy summer days!
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2 comments:

  1. Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!! Hi this is Nicole from Colie’s Kitchen I just discovered your blog and wanted to drop by and say hi. I am now a new follower. I would love to have you stop by Colie’s Kitchen if you get a chance. www.colieskitchen.com

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  2. Thanks for sharing. We already do the library activites, but I will have to check out Michaels Thanks for stopping by my blog.

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