Free activities for you and your little one
Summer is the perfect time to get outdoors and explore with children. We know family outings can be a drain on your wallet, so we've put together ten ideas for budget-friendly adventures that will keep you and your little one entertained this summer.
Park picnic: Pack a homemade lunch, grab a blanket and head to a nearby park. Let your child explore nature – encourage them to look at and smell flowers, collect fallen leaves, or spot different types of birds. It's a simple and enjoyable way to spend a sunny summer's day.
Beach day: If you live near a beach, take advantage of this natural playground. Splash in the waves, collect seashells – and be sure to bring buckets and spades for sandcastles! The beach offers endless opportunities for imaginative play and sensory exploration.
Nature scavenger hunt: Create a scavenger hunt in your local area. Make a list of things for your child to find – a colourful flower, a smooth pebble, a fluffy feather. It’s a chance to explore your local neighborhood or visit a nearby green space. This activity will engage their curiosity and help them develop an appreciation for the outdoors.
Storytime at the library: Most libraries offer free storytelling sessions tailored to young children. Check your local library's schedule and take your little one along for an interactive storytelling experience. It's an excellent opportunity for them to socialise with other young children and discover the joy of stories.
Visit a local market: Take your child to a nearby market and encourage them to get involved with choosing ingredients, selecting their favourite fruits and vegetables, and washing and preparing the produce when you get home.
Explore a community garden: Find a community garden in your area and take your child for a visit. Teach them about different plants, flowers, and vegetables as you stroll through the garden. Many community gardens have designated areas where children can get their hands dirty and try their hand at gardening.
Outdoor film night: Organise a film night under the stars in your garden or a local park. Pop down some blankets and cushions and put a family-friendly film on your laptop or project it onto a white sheet if you’re able to. Bring snacks, drinks (and jumpers for later) for an unforgettable evening of fun.
Visit a petting zoo or farm: Many petting zoos and farms offer free admission or have specific days with discounted rates. Encourage your child to interact with the animals – many farms will provide specific opportunities for children to pet, feed, and learn about different farm animals.
Explore local playgrounds: Discover a playground in your area that you haven't visited before. Each playground offers its unique climbing frames, swings and slides, providing lots of entertainment for your little one.
Outdoor arts and crafts: Unleash your child's creativity by engaging in outdoor craft activities. Set up a painting station in your garden or at a local green space, using washable paints and large sheets of paper. Alternatively, create nature-themed crafts such as leaf collages, nature bracelets, wands or flower crowns using fallen leaves, petals and twigs found on a walk.
Enjoying a day out with a child under 5 doesn't have to break the bank. By making the most of the outdoors, you can create wonderful memories on a budget.
Resources
https://www.goodto.com/family/free-farms-visit-kids-uk-38514
https://www.better.org.uk/what-we-offer/libraries/activities/children/storytime-rhyme-time
