Your Summer Staycation Guide
May 24th 2009 21:23
So for whatever reason you have decided not to take a family vacation this year; be it past vacation disasters or the current economic uncertainties, many families are planning staycations this summer. Just because you aren't traveling doesn't mean that you have to be forced to sit around the house keeping the kids entertained with video games and movies. With a little planning your staycation will not only keep the kids entertained but have you wondering why you even bothered spending tons of money on faraway destinations. Here are a few ideas to help keep your kids entertained and your sanity intact throughout summer.
Backyard Camping
Let the kids take the lead on planning this "trip" They will learn what you go through packing their lunches every day. Make sure you have some good scary tales at the ready and of course what backyard trip would be complete without making some tasty s'mores. Also a note to moms and dads, leave the laptops and Blackberries in the house. Rough it with your kids and rediscover your family.
Summer Reading and Movie Programs
Check with your local movie theater and library for special programs for kids. Many libraries will have live readings for the younger kids and the older ones might be able to catch a cheap kid friendly flick at the local cinema.
Free Fishing and Zoo Days
In every state that I have researched there has been some type of free fishing day. In most states the requirement for a license is waved and in some areas free fishing rentals are available. In the case of the zoo, if you do take advantage please exercise patience. These days are few and far between and it may take you most of the day to get a glimpse of the animals.
Vacation Bible School
VBS provides an excellent opportunity for your child to have fun and learn more about the Bible. This week also gives parents the possibility to take in a movie or to pamper themselves with a day of shopping or a visit to a spa. Be sure to attend graduation so you can see first hand what your children have learned that week.
Picnics
I'm lucky enough to live within thirty minutes of an incredible National Park. One of my favorite activities is to go hiking and and share a great picnic with family and friends. You don't have to have such a park to share the outdoors with family however, I would be willing to bet that there are some incredible state or local parks that offer trails, sports fields, and swimming. In short something for everyone.
State Fairs and Local Festivals
Check your local community calendar or state's tourism website for fairs and festivals that might look like fun. In most cases you could travel to these without spending a lot of money. It also helps keep money and jobs in your state.
I hope everyone has a great summer. Be sure to share your vacation or staycation ideas either in the comments section here or by emailing me at scgann@hotmail.com
Steve
Backyard Camping
Let the kids take the lead on planning this "trip" They will learn what you go through packing their lunches every day. Make sure you have some good scary tales at the ready and of course what backyard trip would be complete without making some tasty s'mores. Also a note to moms and dads, leave the laptops and Blackberries in the house. Rough it with your kids and rediscover your family.
Summer Reading and Movie Programs
Check with your local movie theater and library for special programs for kids. Many libraries will have live readings for the younger kids and the older ones might be able to catch a cheap kid friendly flick at the local cinema.
Free Fishing and Zoo Days
In every state that I have researched there has been some type of free fishing day. In most states the requirement for a license is waved and in some areas free fishing rentals are available. In the case of the zoo, if you do take advantage please exercise patience. These days are few and far between and it may take you most of the day to get a glimpse of the animals.
Vacation Bible School
VBS provides an excellent opportunity for your child to have fun and learn more about the Bible. This week also gives parents the possibility to take in a movie or to pamper themselves with a day of shopping or a visit to a spa. Be sure to attend graduation so you can see first hand what your children have learned that week.
Picnics
I'm lucky enough to live within thirty minutes of an incredible National Park. One of my favorite activities is to go hiking and and share a great picnic with family and friends. You don't have to have such a park to share the outdoors with family however, I would be willing to bet that there are some incredible state or local parks that offer trails, sports fields, and swimming. In short something for everyone.
State Fairs and Local Festivals
Check your local community calendar or state's tourism website for fairs and festivals that might look like fun. In most cases you could travel to these without spending a lot of money. It also helps keep money and jobs in your state.
I hope everyone has a great summer. Be sure to share your vacation or staycation ideas either in the comments section here or by emailing me at scgann@hotmail.com
Steve
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