Now that Spring has arrived, that means that summer break is right around the corner. In a few short months, the kids will be off for summer break. The question of "How do I keep them entertained?" enters all parents minds. For those parents who cannot afford summer camp programs, don't worry. There are still plenty of activities! Here are a few tips to kept you and your child(ren) entertained and out of the house all summer long without breaking the bank....
Tip 1: Check your local library! Not only do most offer free summer reading programs, but there are movie days, and some offer FREE museum passes to various museums around NY, like the Cradle of Aviation, American Power Museum, New York Botanical Gardens, etc.
Tip 2: Various stores like Home Depot and the Lego Store, will offer free classes. These book really quick, so stay informed by either the store, or your town calendar.
Tip 3: Local parks are usually free. Some offer sprinkling circles for the kids to cool off during those hot days, for example Coes Neck Park and Eisenhower Park do so.
****Extra Pro Tip: Stay informed with your local community for the Free Community Picnic****
Tip 4: Invest in a leisure pass, this pass will get you into many parks and give you heavily discounted activities, like mini golf, swimming, batting cages, and etc.
Tip 5: Saving sites like Groupon and Living Social are great, inexpensive ways to have an adventure, try new things, learn something new, and even help plan a cheap getaway.
****Extra Pro Tip: When purchasing, Go on Ebates , it will not only give you cash back on your purchases from Groupon and Living Social, but if you're a NEW customer , they will reward you will $10 cash or gift card!****
Tip 6: Museums! Not only are they a great way to keep your child inquisitive and promote learning in a fun atmosphere, but many of them are FREE on certain days. There are many museums that offer free/pay-what-you-wish days. For example: On wednesdy the Bronx Zoo offers free admission. The MET, Natural Museum of History, and Brooklyn Museum are pay-what-you-wish. You can keep informed by going on https://www.timeout.com/newyork/museums/free-museum-days-in-ny
****Extra Pro Tip: Long Island has a place called MUSEUM ROW. Along this strip you will find, the Cradle of Aviation, Long Island Children's Museum, Nassau County Firefighter Museum [Located within the Cradle of Aviation], as well as Nutley's Historic Carousel ($2 per ride)****
Tip 7: Movie Tuesdays! On Tuesdays many theaters offer half priced movie tickets.
Tip 8: Free Summer Concerts. Places like Deer Park Tangers Outlets and various Simon Malls, as well as Eisenhower Park, offer free concerts all summer long. If you spend a certain amount at the Tangers Outlets, you can qualify for a free meet and greet with the music artist(s).
Tip 9: Free Outdoor Movies. All summer long many parks and entertainment areas will offer free kid friendly movies. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks then Kick back and Relax!
Tip 10: Kids eat Free. There are various days and times when kids can eat free with the purchase of an adult entree. Kids Eat Free NY
I hope these few short tips help get your summer of fun started!!
-Diana
2022
