Entertaining the Kids on a Shoestring Budget

Little girl creating toys from playdough

Entertaining the kids can become a challenge if it comes at a high cost.

Oftentimes when couple split up, budgets will be tighter for either one person, or both. Entertaining the kids can become a challenge if it comes at a high cost. Some parents also feel like they are unable to compete with the other parent who has greater disposable income. We’ve been there! Below are some ideas to not only entertain the kids but create fun family memories with little to no additional costs.

…Some parents also feel like they are unable to compete with the other parent who has greater disposable income.

Create fun competitions – winner gets to pick a family movie, game, or special home-cooked dinner!
Go for a nature walk, create a scavenger hunt list to see who finds the most items, or all items in the shortest time.
1. Suggestions: Specific bugs, plants, animals, colors etc.
Create an Obstacle Course together – Create a fun obstacle course, indoors or outdoors. Time each successful completion.
Create a play list of card games and have tournaments.
Create a tent/camp or fort indoors (or out) using old blankets/duvets, cushions and chairs for props. Include the TV to watch movies from your new camp.
Create a hairdressing/makeup station and take turns doing each other’s hair. No scissors needed.
Make fun hands-on play items or create science experiments. Do a google search for ideas. Here are some of ours:
Make slime!
Use or make play dough at home to create animals and other fun creatures.
Baking Soda Volcanoes or Homemade lava lamps – these projects are both fun and educational.
Create rainbows in a glass with skittles (so much fun!)
Cook or bake together. This could be marshmallow treats, homemade turtles, or personalized dinner such as topping your own pizza, or creating your own skewers with dips.
Go on a picnic. Pack a basket of homemade goodies and drinks. Picnic at home, at a playground, or find a place to watch the sunset together. Use disposable wine glasses for fun!
Feed the fowls. Take a trip to your local park, river or lake, and feed the ducks or swans. We all immediately think of bread but consider healthy alternatives like corn or peas.
Have a sports day. Host a mini fun sports day, with obstacle courses, long-jump, and novelty races like 3-legged, sack, egg and spoon races, or a water balloon toss, and let the kids invite their friends.
Make a home movie. Recreate a favorite movie scene, use live or animated movies.
Karaoke night! Just turn the music on and let your inner air guitarist or diva dancer out. Record it on your phone too so they can relive the moment over and over

African pregnant mother and son hugging together at city park

Summary:

Regardless of your financial situation there are many fun ways to entertain your children while creating a bonding opportunity. Make it a priority to do at least one activity per week to show them how important he/she (or they) are in your lives. Creating memories does not have to be a financial burden as there are many inexpensive and/or free activities available – just plan your day and have fun with the kiddos!