Why spend money on a night out on the town when there are tons of great, free things that you can do with your family? If you need some ideas, we’ve gathered 20 great ones below. Enjoy!
1. Play a board game.
Whether it’s Scrabble or an old school game of Monopoly, board games are great for spending time as a family because they encourage healthy competition and teamwork. You can also break open a pack of fresh cards and teach your kids a few tricks!
2. Camp in the backyard.
Sometimes, organizing a camping trip can be stressful, so why not just set up the tent in the backyard? Kids will love it no matter what or maybe you and your spouse can enjoy it without the kids!
3. Throw a football outside.
We’re so attached to technology these days that we often forget the simple joys of tossing around a football outside. Getting out, exercising and having fun are great ways to end a long day at work.
4. Go to the local library.
Your local library is a great resource because it’s quiet (and free!). Check out a few books for everyone and enjoy time snuggling as a family reading.
5. Paint a pretty picture.
Whether your family loves finger painting or watercolors, painting is a great way to relax and enjoy your afternoon. For the best inspiration, set up your canvas by a window and paint what you see outside.
6. Do a crossword puzzle.
Crossword puzzles are fun brain exercises that help you to think quickly and stretch your knowledge. Partner with a family member to complete one in half the time.
7. Walk the dog.
Sometimes, walking the dog can seem like a chore, but if you have a family member to do it with you, it can actually be really fun.
8. Read a book out loud.
Reading out loud or being read to is not just for the kids. It’s so nice to share a story with loved ones, and it’s a great way to bond over interesting story lines and intricate characters.
9. Play hopscotch.
Grab some chalk and head outside for a friendly game of hopscotch!
10. Perform a play.
Grab some puppets or make them out of brown paper bags to create a silly and fun play to perform for the whole family.
11. Cook a meal.
More kids need to learn how to cook. Start with something simple like spaghetti or grilled cheese sandwiches and teach them how it all works!
12. Plant some seeds.
Nothing is more fun that watching little seeds grow. Grab a pack and help your kids to remember to water them every day. They’ll love watching the progress as the weeks go by.
13. Listen to great music.
Sometimes, it’s fun to just turn up the tunes. Play a crazy song and dance around. Get your family in on the fun.
14. Call grandma.
Sit down on Skype or pick up the phone and call your grandmother. She’ll love hearing your voice and getting an update on your family. Pass the phone around so the kids can say hi too.
15. Volunteer your services.
It would be a great bonding experience if you and your spouse went to volunteer at a local animal shelter or offered your services in a soup kitchen. Giving back to others makes you feel awesome, and that’s a great feeling to share with a loved one!
16. Look at old photographs.
It’s so much fun to look at old pictures and to share them with your kids. Grab an old photo album and tell them stories about your childhood.
17. Watch your wedding video.
Watching your wedding video is a great way to remember the love you share with your spouse.
18. Go on a hike.
As the weather starts to get warmer, look up great places to hike in areas near you.
19. Decorate cookies.
It’s great to eat cookies, but it’s even more fun to decorate them. Make sure to pile on the sprinkles!
20. Visit a free museum.
There are free museums in almost every city. Do a Google search to see what interesting new exhibits are in your town today.
So, what are you waiting for? Head out the door, pick up the phone, or break out the tunes to have some fun with your family today!
What type of free activities do you like to do with your family? Share them in the comment section below.
Catherine,
I’m a huge fan of just going for a walk. I used to do it with my ma, sister and our dogs. Now that I’m away from my family, I enjoy walks with my lady.
-Christian L. @ Smart Military Money