Free Fun Things to Do

When my daughter was 4 months old I officially transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom. Not only did this significantly reduce our income, it opened up a myriad of money-spending opportunities for me. Desperate to leave the house, improve my little people-watcher's mood and lose my baby weight, I made a list of local places I could head for free (or for very little).

My basic requirements for an activity are:

- Free or very cheap
- Entertaining for me
- Entertaining for Beet
- Enriching for Beet
- Provide adult contact for me
- Provide exercise for me

Here is the list of activities I came up with.

Stores. My rare ability to keep from buying things opens up this possibility. My favorite stores to walk around in include Target, IKEA, Toys R Us and Babies R Us.

Shopping Malls. Again, only a good idea if you can resist impulse buys. I can check out the latest fashions, people-watch, and get some free samples, all while getting some exercise. There are several large outdoor malls in my area, which is even better when weather permits.

The Library. Most libraries offer a weekly story time for young children. One of the ones near me even offers a baby story and singing time. Beet loves to watch the other babies and laugh while I am singing along. I can also sit in the children's room and read with her, let her chew on the library's board books and puppets, and get some books and DVDs to further occupy us once we get home. It's like free shopping!

The Theatre. Many theatre chains offer free movies on weekday mornings during the summer. They play G and PG rated movies that have been out a while (probably over a year). If no theatres in your area offer this, the $1 theatre is another option. Another plus for me is that Beet is used to going to the movie theatre and we are not afraid to take her to a "real" movie. Again, I have a rare ability to avoid popcorn and other concession purchases - if you can't, this is probably not a wise idea.

Running Errands. Ok, this doesn't sound like a very fun thing to do, but look at it this way: you have to do it anyway, you might as well make an outing out of it. For me, this helped get Beet used to the car seat and the grocery store. Also places are less crowded during the middle of the day.

Daddy's Work. Once in a while we drive over to Daddy's work and have lunch with him. Sometimes we surprise him with a special drink or take out. He loves it, and Beet is always thrilled to see him.

Former Coworkers. I go every week or two for lunch with a group of people I used to work with. I get lunch and adult conversation, Beet gets loads of attention, and I am also staying on top of what's happening in the industry and workplace.

The Beach. I know not everyone lives by a beach, but if you do, take advantage! The beaches near me have a lovely bike path I can walk on if I don't want to get sandy. Or I bring a big blanket, spread it out and plop Beet down in the middle. By the time sand wiggles to the middle where she is, it's time to go anyway.

Nature Preserve, hiking. There are probably plenty of unknown hiking spots in your area. It's great exercise and you might get to see some critters to you're your little one. Check it out online.

The Park. Lame, I know but kids love those toys and the sand. Beet is still too little for this but she enjoys watching other kids playing or swinging on my lap.
Walk. Around a neighborhood that isn't yours. I love walking, but I get tired of seeing the same houses on the 3 streets near me. Take a drive to a new place, maybe somewhere fancy and pretend you live there.

Farmer's Market. Great food, great prices, other people, and free samples. My farmer's market even has a free drawing where you can win produce, eggs, fresh flowers etc.

Disneyland. Well, not everyone can live in Orange County, but if you do, an annual pass is a great investment. I got mine for $75 when I upgraded a ticket purchased by my husband's employer. Beet loves all the people and excitement and even the rides. We can go hang out for a few hours a few times a week. What a bargain!

Swimming. We have access to a pool for free, but even if you don't, passes are generally available at community pools for just a few dollars each time. Or for free if you are near a beach!

Be Outside. Anywhere. We enjoy taking a blanket out on the lawn and looking up at the trees. Believe it or not, this will occupy us for 45 or more. Or I set up a lawn chair and the baby swing on the patio and just enjoy a change of scenery and being outdoors.

Local Deals. What is in your community? You may be surprised. I took Beet to a (albeit tiny) zoo in a neighboring town for just $6. And who knew there was a free farm for children just 1 mile away? Don't be afraid to ask about discounts, or if deals are available at certain times or on certain days.

Resources. Look online for free local things to do in your community. Ask other people around you, especially people you meet doing other free things. If another mom is at the free baby story time at the library, chances are she knows about other free things.