A Weeks Worth of Summer Fun for Free: Free Summer Vaction Ideas for Kids

The Summer is quickly approaching, and money is tight. The problem is, you want your children to have a wonderful summer vacation, but haven't got the money to do so. I've been there so I know exactly how you feel. Well, there is no need to panic. You can find several things to do close to home, that isn't going to break the bank. Last year I had to "make do with what I had", and my kids had so much fun that they are actually looking forward to doing the same this year. Here are few idea's that will get you started.

1. Playtime at the park. Certainly you have a public park near by so take advantage of it. Pack things such as balls, bubbles, and a lunch. You'd be amazed at how much fun your kids will have watching you blow, and chase bubbles with them. You can also make a list of everything you find, or make your list ahead of time and have a scavenger hunt.

2. Water Water Water. Most kids love water, but avoid the normal stuff. If you own or have access to a pool, that's great but try to creative. Instead of just jumping into a pool for a quick cool down, fill water balloons and have a balloon fight. You might even pick up a few water guns or make due with a bucket of water and a few plastic cups. Seeing mom, and dad running around the yard screaming, and soaking wet is a blast for kids.

3. Treasure hunting. Treasure hunting can be lots of fun, especially if you find treasure. Hide a few things and let the kids search for them using only a map in which you create. You can find lots of goodies for less then a dollar which work great as treasure.

4. Movie night. Watching a movie together is tons of fun. Add popcorn, ice cream, candy and soda to any movie and you have instant happiness. Make pallets on the floor and let the kids stay up as late as they want. After all camping out in the living room in front of the television isn't something most kids do every night.

5. Crafts. All you need to do is add paint and you have an art day. You can paint anything from rocks to milk cartons. Let the kids get messy, and be expressive.

6. Cooking. Baking is something most kids enjoy helping their mom with. Make a batch of cookies for a neighbor, or a cake "just because" for yourself.

7. Plant something. Ever tried out your green thumb? Plant a small garden with the kids. Radishes are easy, and fast to grow. Plant some vegetables, or flowers together.

These ideas might seem simple, but these are 7 days (a full week) of laughter that cost little to nothing. Your children might not be going on a fancy trip, but they will have fun and make memories that last a lifetime. Spending time as a family is what's important, not where you spend it, or how much you spend doing it.