Cheap Summer Activities for Kids

With school out for the summer, you will likely find yourself spending a bit more money, both on food to keep those hungry mouths fed and energized, as well as fun activities to keep the kids from getting bored. Well, there are plenty of fun activities to keep the kids busy that either will not cost you a penny, or at the very most, ten dollars.

Keep scrolling for FREE summer scavenger hunts to print!

Check out these fun summer activities that will keep kids and won't cost you a penny, or at the very most, $10. #summerfun #thriftyliving #funforkids

Sink or Float

This one will not cost you anything, because all of the supplies are ones that you will find lying in or around the house. Feathers, rocks, acorns, leaves, and bouncy balls are all great examples. Fill up a bucket of water outside and have the kids guess whether or not their items will sink or float.

Homemade Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is super easy to make. Purchase some cheap, clear, plastic condiment bottles from the dollar store. Then fill them up with hot water, a little bit of cornstarch, and food coloring. Have the kids shake them really well, and then get to creating sidewalk art!

Scavenger Hunts

Scavenger hunts are another fantastic free activity to enjoy with your kids during the summer months. They’re a fun way to get children outside, exploring, and noticing the world around them. If you don’t have time to create your own, grab this set of eight printable summer-themed scavenger hunts below. Themes include Water Fun, Summer Treats, Backyard & Garden, and Beach & Ocean, among others. Each list is packed with kid-friendly items to spot. Just print and go—perfect for backyard playdates, beach trips, or evening walks.

Homemade Bubbles

Who doesn’t love chasing bubbles around the yard, while trying to pop each one? Bubble solution is cheap and easy to make; simply mix 2 cups of water with ¼ cup Dawn dish soap, and 1 tablespoon of corn syrup, or give this bouncing bubbles recipe a try. If you do not have any old bubble wands lying around you can use fly swatters, slotted kitchen utensils, and even cookie cutters.

Outdoor Fort

Couch cushion forts tend to be quite popular among children, so why not build a fort outside, using old sheets and clothespins? If you have close trees you can use the limbs to help hang the sheets up, or even tie a string around the trunks, to drape the sheets over. Be creative. Have fun!

Related: Family Night Under the Stars

Marshmallow Games

If you’re looking for some indoor activities to avoid the heat, marshmallow games are quick and easy to throw together any day of the week. There are so many things you can do with mini marshmallows or big marshmallows that all ages will enjoy. Let your imagination run wild with ideas.

Blocks of Wood

If you have access to blocks of polished wood (so your kids don’t get splinters) let them go to town with building! It’s amazing how busy blocks can keep kids, plus they may surprise you on what they’re able to build.

Geocaching

My family finally gave Geocaching a try recently. I’ve been wanting to do it for some time now, and we all (10 of us) headed out on Mother’s Day this year to give it a try. Geocaching is like a real-life treasure hunt that uses GPS coordinates and clues to help you find the hidden geocache. You can pretty much do this anywhere as there are literally thousands of geocaches all over the world. You probably have some in right in your own hometown. Check out the Geocaching website for more information on this fun, free, family activity.

Go to the movies

Many movie theaters around the nation offer really cheap movies (like $1-$2) on certain days (and typically during the morning hours) for kids. Granted, they are older movies, but this is an inexpensive way to get the kids out of the house to watch a movie they may not have seen yet or a family favorite. Check your local theater it see if this is available near you.

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is offered by many churches during the summer months. It’s a week full of fun activities, usually centered around a specific theme (like beach, jungle, road trip, western), that is meant for educating children about God. VBS typically lasts anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the church and program, and is ideally for kids in the elementary grades (although some gear their program towards all ages – PreK through high school). After drawing kids closer to the Lord, the next best thing about VBS is that it’s FREE! Check your local churches (many will have signs or banners out front, so keep your eyes peeled while you are out running errands) to see if and when one is offered.

Make Slime

I’ll admit, I’m not a fan of activities that make a big mess, but it you’re going to give in and let your kids have a little messy fun, summer is a great time to do it (make the mess outside and/or jump in the pool or play with the hose when you are done). Slime is one of the biggest sensory crazes lately and there are so many different and unique recipes and kinds to try. Just a quick search on Pinterest will give you lots of fun ideas. How about a fun textured sand slime recipe that is perfect for summer!?

Do you have any activities under $10 to share?

More Summer Ideas for Families

Summer is here, and with it comes long sunny days, popsicles on the porch, and endless opportunities to create memories with your kids.

Whether you’re planning adventures in the great outdoors, hoping to sneak in a little learning, or just trying to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank, this list has you covered.

From unit studies and backyard games to boredom busters and math fun, these family-friendly resources will help you make the most of the season.

This week I’ve teamed up with some of my fellow homeschool bloggers to bring you some fantastic tips, resources, and even a few FREEBIES for your homeschool related to Summer Time. Be sure to check them out below!