We are a huge proponent of families hanging out and doing things together. Most people think that they need to spend money or go to a pre-organized activity. Nothing could be further from the truth; there are many no spend activities that you can do with the kids. You can organize activities at home or do something at your local park. Trust me, the kids won’t care what you do as long as you do it together.

Here are a few ideas for no spend activities that you can do together as a family:

Go bike riding

Ride around your neighborhood or load the bikes in the car and go over to a park for a change of scenery.

Have a picnic in the park

Pack a bag with sandwiches and drinks and head over to the park for a picnic. Bring along a ball, a frisbee and some bubbles for some free family fun.

Have a movie night

Let the kids pick out a movie, pop some popcorn and have your own family movie night at home. You can even put together your own movie baskets.

Have a camp-out

Pitch a tent in the backyard and sleep under the starts. If you don’t have a tent, just put down some blankets.

Have a game night

Our kids love game night. Board games are a favorite, as well as such classics as Pictionary and Charades.

Play video games

Video games are not just for kids. Adults can play too. If you have two controllers, two people can play against each other while the other two cheer them on.

Get crafty

I am not that crafty, but I love to do arts and crafts with my kids. Don’t worry if you can’t come up with great craft ideas on your own. That’s what Pinterest is for!

Hold your own backyard games

Set up a mini Olympics right in your backyard with different stations. Carry water balloons from one bucket to another, hop over hurdles or have a fun relay race. The opportunities are endless.

Put on a puppet show

Create puppets from paper bags or socks, or whatever else you have on hand. Put together a basic plot and hold your own puppet show.

Go to the beach

Go swimming or sunning at the beach for the day. Look for seashells to take back home to decorate the house.

Hold a theme dinner

Decide on a special theme for dinner and let the kids pick out the menu for dinner. Take them shopping for the ingredients and everyone can cook together.

Have a dance party

Throw on some tunes and everyone can “get down with their bad self.” Play some oldies and teach the kids some of the dance moves that were popular when you were a kid.

 

What are some no spend activities that you like to do with your family?