Ty had his Pre-K graduation last night. I was very proud of him, and even more maybe- myself. I have to give many props to his school. Not only are they all around wonderful, but they made the program upbeat so that typically sobbing sentimental saps like me didn’t cry once. Like I said. I am proud.

With both boys out of school and A on her way, I realized that I hadn’t planned any local activities for the boogiebrats. I need plans. I need structure or my world may come crashing down. Sad, I know.

While we do already have a few trips planned that will be eating up my summer funds, I needed to find a few activities that are free or close to it. Then being the sweet thoughtful person that I am, thought I would share with you so that your search won’t be as intensive as mine.

1. I know it’s obvious, but visit your local parks. We have a LOT in my county and in the summer time we like to try out new ones that we haven’t visited before. This always makes it a bit more of an adventure.

2. Home Depot Kid’s Workshop- admittedly we attend these year round. My kids really enjoy building this stuff and the results are often brought to school for show and tell days.

3. Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics- we haven’t tried them yet, but they are topping off the list. I like how they do them more than just once a month.

4. Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program- read 8 books get one free!!
Check out your local library- ours has a lot of reading programs, puppet shows, a few hands on science classes, bands, and many more

5. AMC Theaters- Weekly they have a kid’s movie showing. It now cost a dollar a show, but the proceeds go to charity. Hmm…. fun and donating to a charity. Sound’s like it will be a hotspot for us this summer.

6. Regal Theaters- Tues & Wed. they show FREE kid’s movies. We have been attending these movies for the past few summers and they are always fun. It also served as a good trial as to whether my boys were old enough to sit through a movie. I didn’t feel bad walking out early a few times because they are FREE.

7. Craft Stores- our local craft store has classes for kids ranging from $2-8. This is a nice way to do crafts and not have to worry about cleaning up the mess!

8. Church and Community Centers- many offer free or next to free classes and VBS.

9. Malls- this may be our first year where we don’t try to beat the sweltering heat by taking the kids to the play area at the mall. My boys are actually getting too big for the height requirement.

I think I have exhausted my ideas. What about you? Do you have a scoop on something to do this summer that will fit my next to zero budget? Please share!

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