Free Activities for Kids This Summer

Summer break is coming up, which means potentially bored kids and frustrated parents. Nip the boredom in the bud with this list we've compiled of ten free activities to do with your kids this summer.

Fourth Graders get Free Access to National Parks

With the Every Kid in a Park program, fourth graders and their families have free access to all national parks for an entire year. This is an excellent opportunity for the whole family to get out and explore various parts of the country. Teachers at U.S. or U.S. military schools can download activity packets and paper passes for each of their fourth grade students as well.

Free Fishing Weekends/Days

Most states have free fishing days or weekends, which is a great time to get your family out on the water without having to pay for a fishing license. During these events, Fish and Game personnel and volunteers set up several free events throughout the state to help first-timers "get hooked" on fishing. At some of these events, equipment is provided for use on a limited basis. The specific dates and event locations are different depending on where you live, so be sure to check with your state's department of fishing and wildlife. Here are links to the states on the West Coast:

• Washington
• Oregon
• California
• Idaho
• Nevada

Books for Kids

Barnes & Noble has a program called Book Your Summer, which provides a free book to kids. In the past, the requirement was for kids to read eight books and complete a reading journal. The specifics have not yet launched for this year's program, but you can check their website for more details after May 7th.

Kids Build for Free at Home Depot

Every first Saturday of the month, from 9 AM - 12 PM, kids age 5-12 can do a workshop to build a small project. Materials, a work apron, and commemorative pin are all provided free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Register ahead of time on the workshops section of the website.

Free Chuck E. Cheese Play Points for Kids

Kids who read every day for two weeks can get 10 play points at Chuck E. Cheese. Go here, print out the chart, fill it in each day for two weeks, and present it at the restaurant. Looking for more motivation? The website has other charts to celebrate achievements like potty training, homework, daily chores, etc.

Tour a Local Factory

Free ice cream, cheese, or chocolate? Sign me up! Take your family to a local factory for a behind the scenes tour. Most factory tours end with a free sample of some sort, and possibly a discount on any products you purchase. Check out this website for a state-by-state list of factories offering tours in your area.

Improve Your Community by Volunteering

What better way to get the kids (and yourself) out of the house than by volunteering in your own community? There are thousands of opportunities, from animal shelters to retirement homes, arts and culture to computers and technology. If your child has expressed interest in a specific field, volunteering is a great way to test the waters. To find somewhere to volunteer in your specific area, check out Volunteer Match.

Free Museum Tickets

If you have a Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, or U.S. Trust credit or debit card, you can get one free general admission to museums on the first full weekend of every month. Present your credit or debit card and a photo ID at participating institutions. For a list of participating museums near you, visit Bank of America's Museums On Us page.

Free Bowling for Kids All Summer

Kids nationwide are eligible for free bowling all summer long with the Kids Bowl Free program. Registered kids receive two free games of bowling for each day of the program, all summer long. This activity is valued at over $500 per child, and since it's an indoor activity, it's a great way to get out of the sun on a hot day.

Go to the Library--Not Just for Books!

Most public libraries offer free summer reading programs. But don't just go for the books! Stick around for workshops, movies, puppet shows, and more! You should also look into your library's online services, as many are offering video streaming options and might have movies you can watch for free rather than streaming them at a cost through your cable or internet provider.

Now that you've figured out some free entertainment options for your kids, can we interest you in a free mortgage consultation? Fill out the form below or contact us today!