WITH many parents staring down the barrel of the six-week summer holidays, it can be easy to worry about money.
It costs £127 a week to keep each child busy over the six-week break, according to a recent study by pizza brand Goodfella’s – and with the cost of living crisis mounting, budgets are tighter than ever.
But luckily mum Kel Galavan is on hand with a wealth of money-saving tips up her sleeve when it comes to keeping the little ones entertained this summer holiday.
Kel from Kildare, 30 miles west of Dublin, lives with husband Dave, 43, an IT worker, and their kids, aged 10 and seven.
In 2018 she quit her high-flying £90k career but was still able to save £24k in just one year by quitting spending on unnecessary items – so she knows a thing of two about being frugal.
Kel says: “You can do plenty of fun, affordable things to have a great time without breaking the bank. I saved £25k in a YEAR thanks to my money-saving tricks.
“Here are my 10 tips for free things to do with your kids this summer and beat the cost of living crisis.”
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Pathway chalk murals
Path chalk is an excellent option if you’re looking for a fun and creative activity with your kids.
With just a few sticks of chalk, you can transform your driveway or path into a work of art.
Check out the local playground
Hanging out at the playground is a fun way to spend an afternoon with your friends.
The kids can run around and play on the swingsets and merry-go-rounds while the adults can chat and catch up.
Maybe bring a picnic and feed the ducks while you’re there for an enjoyable day.
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Camping in the back garden
Backyard camping is a great way to introduce your children to the joys of camping.
Set up a tent in your backyard, bring some sleeping bags and marshmallows, and you’re all set for a fun night under the stars.
Make a kaleidoscope
A kaleidoscope is a fun and easy project you can make with things around the house.
All you need is a toilet paper roll, some clear tape, scissors, glitter, and beads. Just cut a piece of tape and attach it to one end of the toilet paper roll.
Then, add glitter, beads, and anything else you want to put inside, and seal the other end with clear tape. That’s it!
Make a bird feeder
Making your bird feeder is fun and easy.
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All you need are some toilet paper rolls, peanut butter, and bird seed. Spread peanut butter on the toilet paper rolls, then roll them in bird seed. Once fully coated, hang them from a tree branch using string. The birds will love it.
Make home movies
Taking a video is a great way to document your summer memories.
You can have your kid’s video record the summer-y nature outside with commentary, conduct talk shows outside, or be actors and actresses.
If you’re feeling creative, you can even add special effects. So have fun and enjoy the process. After all, that’s what summer is all about.
Magical flowers
Have you ever wanted to see a flower change colour right before your eyes? All you need are some glasses and some flowers.
Fill each glass with water and add a few drops of different dye colours. Then, add a white flower to each glass. Within minutes, the petals start to change colour as they absorb the dye.
Rock painting
Rocks are pretty fun to paint. Just grab some paints and brushes, and let your creativity run wild. You can paint faces, designs, or whatever you like. Once you’re done, you can use your rocks as door stoppers, paperweights, or simple decorations.
Water balloon Piñata
Here’s a fun and unique twist on the classic piñata!
This Water balloon Piñata will surely be a hit at any party or celebration. Just fill a decorated balloon with water and let your guests take turns hitting it to release the waterfall.
It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day, and kids will love making a splash.
Visit a lake or beach.
There’s nothing like a day at the lake or beach to create lasting summer memories.
Spending time in nature can be a lot of fun. And what could be more fun than playing in the water on a hot day?
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So there you have it – my top ten picks for summer fun with your kids. There is something for everyone to get out and enjoy the warm weather.
All while keeping a good hold on the purse strings.
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