Free Summer Activities For Kids

School is almost out causing a panic amongst parents. What camps can I put my child in? What activities are available this summer? How can I find something for my entire squad without breaking the bank? There are many FREE activities available that can help lighten the financial burden, but more than that, they are activities that are beneficial to our kids! Here’s a guide to some free camps that are available nationwide. 

1. Free Bowling

Whether your child is an avid bowler or is interested in learning, Kids Bowl Free is a program that is sure to please! It has been featured on Fox and Friends, as well as NBC Nightly News, and allows participating bowling centers to give back to the community through free bowling. Eligible children can register for 2 free games each day, all summer long. You can find out more information by visiting www.kidsbowlfree.com. 

2. Apple Camps

Apple gives children, ages 8-12, the opportunity to choose to explore robotics, coding, moviemaking or musical storytelling. The free camps consist of three, 90 minute sessions and are held in local Apple Stores. These camps fill up extremely fast so its a good idea to register for notification once signups open. Visit https://www.apple.com/today/camp/. 

3. Volunteer 

Connect your kids with causes they are passionate about this summer! Volunteering is the gift that keeps on giving and there is nothing more fulfilling then seeing your kids doing what they love, while helping others. Volunteer Match helps volunteers find opportunities with various organizations in their area. Visit https://www.volunteermatch.org to find out more. 

4. Skate For Free

Through the Kids Skate Free Program, you can register your littles to skate at participating rinks for free. Not only is skating fun, but it will also allow your children to remain active throughout the summer. It helps with improving balance and flexibility, as well as burning calories. Visit www.kidsskatefree.com to sign up and find the local rinks near you. 

5. Summer Reading Programs

Reading allows children to keep their skills up and develop a rewarding lifelong habit. Barnes and Nobles’ Summer Reading Program celebrates this needed skill by having children read any 8 books throughout the Summer, record them in a designated Summer Reading Journal and tell which part of the books are their favorite and why. 

Upon completion of the tasks, they will be able to choose a free book from a predetermined list of books! Head over to https://www.barnesandnoble.com/blog/kids/get-ready-for-bns-summer-reading-triathlon/ to find out more! 

6. Visit A Museum

Museums offer a great look into the knowledge children are already receiving in school. They get to explore history, art and science; while gaining a better understanding. Most museums offer free general admission on specified dates, during specific times. This is a free activity that allows the family to spend quality time while learning. It doesn’t get any better than this! Look up your local museums to see what free days are offered. If you are in the Houston area, head to www.houmuse.org. 

7. Visit A Park

Parks have been where the majority of us had our summer fun growing up. It’s always free and fulfilling! Every Kid In A Park is a federal public lands youth initiative to get all 4th graders and their families to experience the country’s natural treasures. It allows 4th graders to receive free access to national parks across the country. Find our more information and get your child’s free pass at https://www.everykidinapark.gov/.

8. Microsoft Camps

Let you kids continue to learn critical thinking skills for the 21st Century with Microsoft! Microsoft offers several camps for children ranging from ages 6-14 years old. From hands on STEM projects to Harry Potter Coding, the littles are sure to fall in love! The free camps are held at local Microsoft stores. Register at https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/locations/events-for-students. 

9. Free Movies 

Many local parks offer free movies on the lawn throughout the summer. Check your local calendars to be sure to take advantage of those activities. For those that are willing to pay a small fee, Regal Cinemas, United Artists and Edwards Theaters will offer $1 movies all summer long! The PG movies are shown on Tuesdays and Wednesday’s at 10 am. Visit https://www.regmovies.com to find participating theaters and learn more. 

10. Home Depot

Children ages 5-12 can learn tool safety and do-it-yourself skills! Home Depot offers hands on workshops the 1st Saturday of every month. The workshops are completely free and are sure to please! Visit https://www.homedepot.com/workshops/#change_store for more info. 

I hope this info makes Summer planning a little easier. For advice on day-to-day planning, revisit my previous blog on This Mama Wines, http://www.thismamawines.com/summer-planning-for-parents/.

Until next time Kuties! 

-Keon