Friday, May 29, 2009
Category:
Personal Finance Tips
The half term holidays are upon us. Soon families will be wondering what activities they can enjoy that will not cost too much. But it’s even better if the activities are free. We always feel that we should always have lots of money to spend on going out. With this guide you won’t need it. Not when we have the outdoors, friends, and our imagination.
The library
Libraries offer much more besides books. Go there for talks, DVDs, music and even free or discounted internet access. If you’re lucky they might even have exhibitions and poetry evenings. Find a public library in your area.
If you go down to the woods…
The UK has plenty of beautiful walks that the entire family can enjoy. There are trails for all different skill levels and you could even find a hiking trail that’s best suited to wet weather.
You could also create and map your own walks or explore parts of your local area that you’ve left previously undiscovered.
A picnic
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy. You need not even go far, the local park is as good as anywhere. Find a picnic spot, enjoy the scenery and try to squeeze in some people watching and maybe even a game of rounders.
A crafting day
Get the children to create their own gifts and haberdashery. This could keep them entertained for hours – days even – and they’ll have something to show their friends when they go back to school.
Cook or bake
This doesn’t have to be an expensive experiment. Much will depend on the children’s age and skill level. They could help you to bake scones, muffins or even cake. Or they could bake it themselves. The BBC website has lots of ideas for cooking with children.
Museums and galleries
Find a museum in your area and let them learn about life in the 19th century or about the Art Deco period
The beach
Find a beach close by and take sporting equipment with you. Or find out whether you can rent what you need.
Cinema
Take your little ones to see films at the local cinema or attend one of the many film festivals that take place throughout the year. Many of the film festivals offer independent films for free or for a small amount. Libraries also offer DVDs and this could be another free form of entertainment – or education if they’re keen on watching documentaries.
Play with friends
Let them play with their friends, cousins and the neighbours' children. It’ll strengthen their social skills, cognitive learning and keep them out of trouble… we hope!
