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5 free (or inexpensive) fun family activity ideas
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It's not a secret that Delaware's economy is so far down the drain, we need a plunger to get it out. From the proposed 8% pay cut to the closing of the Chrysler and GM plants to the downfall of the credit card industry, almost every family in the state has been affected by the recession. As a result, parents are having to get more creative with their money and how that money is used for our kids.
Being creative with money is not necessarily a bad thing. It makes you use your imagination and it helps you find fun in even the mundane (try going grocery shopping with a 2 1/2 year old--it is nothing but eventful). A recent article on www.msnbc.com highlights 10 cheap ways to keep kids entertained. Some of the ideas such as going outside (a lot easier now that the weather is warmer), making the old new again, shopping at garage sales, as well as the vast list of websites available for swapping toys are really helpful. Others, such as having your kids create a wish list for activities and having family members help out are good, but, depending upon your circumstances, may not be that useful. Overall, though, it's a great list.
There was one item on the list that I found particularly helpful. The suggestion is becoming an expert on free activities in your area. Fortunately, there are lots of those in New Castle County. Here are the top 5 that I suggest:
- The library. The New Castle County libraries offer a variety of programs from movie nights to book clubs, including mother/daughter book clubs to storytime to lecture series and activities. These activities are usually free. And as an added bonus, they have books, movies and CDs, too!
- The parks. New Castle County has no shortage of parks. My personal favorite is the Glasgow park, not only because it's free, but because it has a huge walking trail, extensive playgrounds, and it's near my house. But there are parks all over the county that, although smaller, are just as fun. If you have a dog, don't forget to try out Carousel Park or the Iron Hill Bark Park, which also boasts a great playground.
- Your house. Our houses are filled with all kinds of activities that are free. You can play dress up, color pictures, write a story, play in your backyard with bubbles or even a sprinkler (if you have one), have a catch, walk the dog, bake cookies, or even watch a movie that you already own (or one that was free from the library). Not only is this free, but it's true, quality time spent with your child.
- Visit www.delawarescene.com or www.metrokids.com (I am not affiliated with either site). Both of these websites give information about local events and there is never a shortage of free or inexpensive events around New Castle County.
- Visit Milburn Orchards (I am not affiliated with Milburn Orchards). I love this place, and so does my daughter. It's just a quick drive into Elkton, MD and while you're there you can visit their farm, play on the playground or in the sandbox, take a walk, pick whatever fruit is in season (this ranges from berries to apples to grapes. Make sure you have some money as you do have to pay for what you pick), or see the Easter Bunny or Santa (this obviously is seasonal). Their website is www.milburnorchards.com
These are just some of the many free and inexpensive activities available. What are some of your favorite fun and free family activities?
