I definitely don’t work from home so we can blow all our money on toys and activities with Max. Plus, who wants a spoiled kid?
Here are some things we do that are great freebies! Since he’s only 1 year old, there a lot of things he’s still too young for, but we’ll figure those out with age!
Library: Not only are there a TON of books there that we don’t have at home, there’s also kid computers, train table, puzzles and reading nooks. Also special events such as story time, arts and crafts, and special guests.
Bookstore: Our non-public library, as I refer to it. Also lots of books, story time, and most importantly, just a change of scenery.
Parks: Fresh air, Vitamin D, and good old fashioned free fun.
Pet Store: Mini (and free) version of a petting zoo. Max loves going to Pet Smart! We see dogs, cats, fishes, turtles, birds, and whatever else they have on display. You’d think he was at the San Diego Zoo the way he gets so excited to walk in there!
Mall Playground: Lots of malls have indoor playgrounds. They can be dirty and crowded, but we are lucky enough to have a pretty nice one. The trick is to go when the mall is open, but the stores still aren’t (you know, like, when the mall walkers first get there!)
Baseball games: In the spring/summer, there is almost always a baseball game to catch at a local field. It’s not MLB, but kids don’t care! We’ve gone to games where we don’t know anyone playing… it’s just to get outside and play!
Stroller Rides: Exercise for mommy and an opportunity to meet up with a friend to walk with, or call one on the phone.
Free Under Age……. There are all sorts of places you can go and kids under “age X” get in free. We did this a lot his first year of life with our local children’s museum.
Firehouse tours: Many times local fire departments will host free tours for young children, allowing them to get inside a fire truck or view the fire house.
School productions: Lots of schools have holiday or seasonal productions that are free to the public such as concerts and plays. Local universities can offer the same.
Fast food playgrounds: So these usually don’t end up being free, because next thing you know we’ve ordered ice cream or something, but still a great idea for rainy days. McDonalds, Burger King, Chick Fil A, etc often have great indoor (and outdoor) play equipment. Like the mall playground, try to avoid peak hours.
Picnics: Pack lunch and eat outside. Viola—a great way to get out of the house for awhile!
Look out for local events: Our community has great free events like movies on the lawn, concerts in the park, farm day, holiday shows, farmers markets, etc. Find out what’s going on in your community by searching online or asking friends and neighbors.
