The best part about being a stay at home mom is that I can spend all day with my kids and do fun activities together. However, sometimes it can be hard to come up with things to do, especially if you are trying to keep to a budget, and not spend too much money. In today's blog post, I have put together a list of our favorite activities to do with my chidlren throughout the week. These activities will get you out and about, keep your kids engaged, and reduce the temptation to spend too much money or have have too much screen time.
1. Going to the Library
We love going to the library. I've been taking my kids to the library to sine my first daughter was about 8 months old. Many local libraries have programs for children, including babies and toddlers. Our favorite is the story times for little kids. Check your local library website to see if they have a story time for your child's age group. Such programs are often fun, engaging, and educational. My daughter absoulutely loves story time.
We also check out a lot of books to bring home to read. We've been reading to our kids since they were babies. At first, my eldest daughter who is now nearly 3, did not care for books. But today, sitting on the floor and reading together is one of our favorite activies. Reading has brought us closer together as a family. Her vocabulary has grown immensley as she learns new words everyday in the books we read. She often astounds doctors by how well spoken she is.
A trip to the library is a free and fun outing for children of all ages. The added benefit of being able to checkout book and bring them home, also for free, opens a world of learning and fun for the whole family.
2. Going to the Park
Our family has been participating in the 1000 hours outside challenge. If you are unfamiliar, the 1000 hour outside movement encourages families to get outside in nature for 1000 hours each year. This program has changed my life, and that of my children for the better.
Since we spend so much time outside, going to the park is our favorite place to be. My kids enjoy play on the play structures, and often times, there are other children there for them to engage with.
Parks are also a great place to have playdates. Giving you, the parent, some much needed adult conversation, and your children playmates to keep each other busy.
Green spaces such as parks are so beneficial for our own health, and that of our children. Being outdoors sparks creativity in children. There many times I've seen my daughter keep herself entertained and occupied with sticks and rocks and and dirt. She can play for hours coming up with all sorts of games.
The best part in my opinion about going to the park and spending time outdoors is that my children sleep better! Yep, no more defiance at nap time, and refusing to sleep at night. They are too tired to fight the sleep.
3. Going for Walks
Along with spending many hours at our local parks, we also spend a lot of time going for walks. Walks in our neighborhood, or local nature trails. My chidlren love doing this. Just like nature time at the park, nature time on a walk can be equally fun for children. My own children love to look for insects, play with sticks, and observe various leaves, flowers, and trees. My children get some excersise and so do I. This makes for a perfect free activity for all in the family to enjoy.
4. Children's Museums
Museums can sometimes be pricey, but, there are often children's museums that are very low cost, or even free. Or often times, local museums will have a half price day, or even free day for kids. Check out your local museums to see what they have to offer.
Museums often have childrens programs which can be fun and engaging for both kids and adults. Check out your local museums to see what they have to offer.
5. Playdates
We love playdates. These can be so helpful especially when you've got small kids. The best part is thatyou can meet other parents with small children at the places I mentioned above. Some of my best mom friends I met while taking a walk, or at the park. Playdates especially come in handy during the cold winter months, when it's too chilly to be outdoors.
I make a point to invite friends over to my house at least a couple of times a month, and their kids can play with my kids, while we moms can enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.
Conclusion
I hope today's blog post is helpful to any mom out there is looking for ways to get out of the house, and make new memories with their kids without breaking the bank. I'm curious about what are your favorite low cost, or free activities that you like to do with your children. Please post a comment below!
If you are a new stay at home mom, I wrote in my last blog post how to thrive in this new phase of life. Read here and I hope it is a blessing to you!
Blessings,
Maggie
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