Part of our Counselor’s Corner series. Click to read other posts in the Counselor’s Corner.

We are expecting our first child, a baby girl, at the end of July. Having a baby on the way has made me excited about all the fun summer things I want do with my future family of three. Below are some ideas and activities you can do with your family this summer without breaking the bank.

Have Fun in Your Own Backyard
You don’t have to leave home, to enjoy quality time with your family this summer. Here are some quintessential summer activities you can do in your own backyard or neighborhood:

• Blow bubbles
• Draw with sidewalk chalk
• Make s’mores
• Catch fireflies/lightning bugs
• Camp out in your backyard
• Stargaze
• Play in a sprinkler or kiddie pool
• Have a water-balloon fight or a squirt-gun battle
• Ride bikes
• Light sparklers
• Help the kids run a lemonade stand

Another fun idea would be to rent a projector from your local library or other media service and host an outdoor movie night!

See What Your City or Town Has to Offer
Think like a tourist, and you may be surprised by what you can experience in your own city or town! If your area has a visitors bureau, check out their website for upcoming events and activities. If your town has a magazine or publication for local events, follow it on social media sites or pick up a hard copy to see what’s happening this summer. Many larger cities and towns host events like:

• Outdoor movie screenings
• Outdoor concert series
• Sporting events
• Festivals and fairs
• Free events

Most cities and towns have a local pool, tennis courts, and other recreational areas that are free or low-cost to residents.

Another fun idea would be to create a summer bucket list of things you want to experience in your town. For example, find the best ice cream in the area. You don’t have to accomplish this goal overnight, but it would be a fun activity to pursue with your family.

Plan a Staycation
A staycation is a day trip or a series of day trips relatively close to home in which travelers can sleep in their own beds at night. Chances are some attractions are within driving distance. They might include:

• Amusement parks
• Festivals
• Landmarks, monuments, and state parks
• Museums
• Zoos

Research “staycations” online to find the perfect one for your family near your area.

What budget-friendly summer activities do you do with your family?

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