The end of the school year is coming to a quick close. In two or three weeks, the kids finish their final days of school. While the summer brings with it a little breathing space for some families – no more early morning hours to get on the bus and no more homework in the evenings – it can also mean expenses that come only a few times a year. Take charge of your finances and calendar now before the days of summer are well underway, so you’re prepared with whatever comes your way. Check out these essentials for affordable family summer fun this year!
End of the Year Celebrations
Finishing well is important. So is gratitude. Whether it’s a $5 gift card for a favorite teacher or a handwritten note from your child, now is the time to organize the details. Don’t forget the bus driver, secretaries, coaches, and other special people in your student’s life. You may want to budget for and purchase extras like ice cream or water balloons on the last day of school, too.
Start Putting Dates on the Calendar
Weddings, ball games, summer camps, graduation open houses, community events – it feels like the world is *almost* back to what it once was. Odds are good that you’ll be a bit busier this summer thanks to those improvements. I know it seems like June and July are a million miles away, but they really aren’t. So, whether you use the calendaring app on your phone, you use a third party app, a paper planner, or a combination of all of the above, now is the time to begin getting dates lined up. I LOVE the third party app Cozi because our entire family can access it on their own devices and also add their own events. This is especially handy for families with older kids. I also have grocery store lists set up and everyone can add items they need on there, too.
Explore Summer Camp Options
Some summer camps – both day camps and overnight camps – will be back in action this year. Do your online research to get both dates and prices on your radar. If you’re not sure where to look, turn to your network of friends and school resources to ask what programs others have enjoyed. Many churches, schools, community centers, and dance and theater groups have affordable programs every summer. Things may still look a little different but overall, your kid will have more options to stay busy. Be sure you know both health and safety standards along with the registration/payment deadlines. By the way, if your child has a summer birthday, an experience like one of these is a great idea for grandparents in lieu of a physical toy or gift.
Look for FREE and Affordable Community Fun
I’ve already seen a number of local outdoor concerts, library programming, and city celebrations popping up for this summer. Before those special dates whoosh by on the calendar, look them up now. Sign up for Summer Reading at your local library and explore the many free options your library offers the entire family. Go to your city’s Facebook page or website to see when festivals or parades will be happening this year. Take advantage of kids eating free at Victory Field. You can have an amazing summer without dropping a lot of cash if you prepare.
Focus on Your Top Ten Simple Summer Delights
I think sometimes we over idealize summer. We create impossible expectations and when we can’t afford them or plans get canceled, we think we’re not offering our families the best possible. But honestly, there are so many summer traditions that don’t cost a lot. Making fresh lemonade, going on a bike ride, swinging on the swingset, a water balloon fight, playing catch in the backyard – the list goes on and on. Challenge your family to make a top ten list of their summer favorites. Place those activities on your calendar now. Even if you can’t afford a fancy vacation or expensive outings, you can make memories that last.
The end of the school year slides right into the summer and before you know it, you’re shopping for back to school again. This year, take charge of both your calendar and budget to create an amazing experience for your family without breaking the bank.
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