Fishing, and Other (Almost) Free Activities for Kids

May 09, 2012

One of the things I enjoy most about this time of year is the chance to take my boys (and daughter, when she’s up to it) fishing at the local pond. What I love about fishing is being outside, away from the video games and television, listening to the birds chirp, the “ker-plunk” of the fishing lure when it hits the water, and the occasional “I got a fish!” when we actually manage to hook one. Truthfully, we can spend hours casting and reeling, but perhaps the best part is that, with the exception of the original purchase of the equipment, fishing costs next to nothing. Now that summer break is right around the corner, I thought it would be a good idea to prepare a list of other (almost) free activities for the kids:

Bike riding

Remember when kids used to use clothespins to put baseball cards in the spokes of their wheels so that it made their bike sound like a motorcycle? Maybe that was just me, but you don’t have to spend a whole lot to enjoy the wind in your face as you crank down on the pedals. In fact, I always wondered why parents would pay for brand new kids’ bikes when the kids would eventually outgrow them. I guess that is so there are plenty of good bikes for less money for people like me who buy them on Craigslist or at police auctions.

Hiking

No matter where you live, there are probably hiking paths and trails within a short distance,  and other than the cost of a good pair of hiking shoes (or boots depending on the terrain), your cash outlay should be minimal. Don’t forget to pack a lunch or snack. This will not only save you money, but it will allow you to prolong the experience.

Swimming

As you can see, my goal is to get the kids out of the house, so any activity that can keep them outside for long periods of time is a plus. I had a pool growing up, but unless you already have one, building one is pricey. Not only that, but the cost of maintaining a pool can run you $100 a month or more, depending on the size, shape, type and location. A pool will also increase the cost of your homeowner’s insurance policy, and in the end, it may only increase the value of your home by a fraction (not to mention it can be difficult to sell a home with a pool, especially in today’s market).

My suggestion is to join a club, such as the local YMCA. Better yet, make friends with someone who already has a pool. If you live near a lake or the ocean, then you’re set. Just remember the sunscreen (and reapply after 80 minutes).

Going to the library

Getting tired of all the time in the sun? Take a trip to the library. Today’s library is a lot different than what you and I grew up with. If your kids aren’t into books, then maybe they’ll enjoy the multimedia center. For fun, create a scavenger hunt, but make the items “facts” they have to look up in a book. Many libraries offer a story time, allowing mom and dad to take a little time for themselves. Before you leave, have each child check out a book, and equate this to “borrowing” money. Remind them that if they don’t return the book (or money) on time, there are fines.

“Free” days at the museum

The Art Institute of Chicago offers “Free Family Wednesdays” to Illinois residents the first and second Wednesday of every month. Contact local museums to see if they offer similar promotions. If you Google “free activities for kids” along with the name of your city or state, you may be surprised at how many things there are to do in your area for little or no cost.

Camping (in the back yard)

So far all I’ve talked about are things you can do during the day, but there are even things you can do at night. One of my favorites is setting up a tent in the backyard, building a fire in the portable fire pit, and sleeping under the stars. It may not be the best night’s sleep, but at least you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg spending some quality time with the kids.

Climb into the attic, pull out the tent, grab some flashlights and the UNO cards, and head out to the backyard—you’re bound to create a memorable evening.

With so much to do, your kids should never utter those two dreaded words: “I’m bored.”