Summer is here! How Do I Stay Within My Budget?

As summer rolls in, have you noticed changes in your budget? Are childcare expenses rising? Is your A/C bill climbing? Are you planning any beach vacations? This newsletter is packed with tips to help you enjoy your summer without overspending.

Smart Summer Planning:
A friend of mine meticulously plans her summer childcare with a detailed spreadsheet, scheduling activities down to the day. As a fellow planner, I live by the motto, "Failing to plan is planning to fail." Here are some cost-effective ways to keep your kids engaged, whether you're with them or need some time to yourself:

Activities That Get Your Kids Out Of The House:
- Local Day Camps or VBS: Look for local day camps or Vacation Bible Schools (VBS). Pro tip: Find multiple churches hosting VBS on different weeks to keep your kids entertained throughout the summer. These programs are often free!
- Childcare Rotation: Organize a schedule where kids rotate between different families in your friend group. Yes, this means you might have a day with a house full of kids, but it balances out.
- Family Support: Lean on grandparents or other family members for childcare assistance.

Activities to Do As A Family:
- Free Outdoor Activities:
  - Splash Pads: Visit local splash pads for a fun, cost-free way to cool down.
  - Pools: Utilize neighborhood or friend’s pools for swim days.
  - Day Trips: Take advantage of nearby beaches for a day trip.
  - Parks and Picnics: Spend the day at a park with a packed picnic.
  - Community Events: Participate in free community events and museum visits.
  - Library Programs: Check out local library events for educational fun.
  - Family Time: Plan activities such as game nights, cooking together, or exploring new hobbies.

No Kids? No Problem!:
(Most of the activities above are enjoyable for adults only, too!)
- Local Events and Festivals: Enjoy free concerts, festivals, and cultural events.
- Outdoor Fitness: Join community yoga classes or go for a hike.
- Picnics and Parks: Spend time outdoors with friends.
- Exploration: Visit local landmarks and museums on free admission days.

Planning and Resources:
Many of these activities require some planning. Check different websites and community calendars, and align these events with your schedule. Remember, the amount of money you spend doesn’t dictate the fun you have or the memories you create.

By planning ahead and taking advantage of free and low-cost activities, you can enjoy a fulfilling and budget-friendly summer. Happy summer planning!

-Amberley