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The days are getting longer, and the weather is getting warmer. That's because Spring is just around the corner. And that means spring break is coming soon.
There are a myriad of free or inexpensive things for you to do with your family to have fun over Spring break on a budget. Here are just some of our good ideas:
Ride a Bike
Take advantage of the warm weather to go on a family bicycle ride. Many communities have bike paths or trials for more experienced riders. Not ready for that yet, spring is a great time to get your kids riding two-wheelers with or without training wheels. You can even ride bicycles on the Great American Hiking Trail.
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Plant Flowers
Now that the weather is getting warmer, it's time to plant flowers. Flowers help beautify any space and they are good for bees and other pollinators. Talk to your kids about the role flowers play in taking care of bees and butterflies and plant some today.
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Visit a National, State, or Local Park
Whether you go camping or just for a day trip, national parks have much to offer from history to magnificent scenery. There are 29 national and almost countless state and local parks.
For example, visiting The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a hit for kids of all ages according to Full Suitcase. The Trail of Time is a short easy hike that teaches about geological history and there is a Junior Ranger Program that provides free activities for kids. You can camp in the park, but you must make your arrangements early.
A 4th Grader in your family + Spring Break?
— Grand Canyon NPS (@GrandCanyonNPS) February 24, 2020
The Every Kid Outdoors program gives your family free access to Grand Canyon NP, and over 2,000 federal lands. Marvel at stunning landscapes, learn incredible stories & make lasting memories. https://t.co/Xjc3FebR7V #MondayMotivation pic.twitter.com/LYdfBFbO5j
Backyard Fun
Turn your backyard into a spring break sports camp. Set up a Badminton net, a jump-rope competition, make your own obstacle course, or play ultimate frisbee. If the weather is warm enough, set up a slip N' Slide for some wet fun.
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Go to a Children's Petting Zoo
Whether you live in the country or city, every kid loves animals. The best place to get kids used to animals is at a petting zoo. Buy a bag of food and let your little one's hand feed them. You'll hear squeals of delight from both the children and the animals.
The Tisch Children's Zoo in Central Park in Manhattan let's your kids crawl, jump, climb, and hear like animals. Open daily from 10 am to 4:30 pm. It's fun for kids of all ages.
Play Mini Golf
Hit a ball through a revolving windmill, over a bumpy path, or over a bridge. There are mini golf or putt-putt courses in most communities, and they are fun for the entire family. Give your little ones some help hitting the ball, but older kids can play on their own.
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Eat Outside
Hold a family barbeque, a hot dog roasting campfire on the beach, or a picnic in the park. Food always tastes better if it is eaten outdoors. But if rain spoils your plans, an indoor picnic on the living room floor is also a way to do something different with our family.
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Go Fly a Kite
Let your kids enjoy the excitement of seeing their kite soar through the air. All you need is room to run like on a beach or in a field, an inexpensive kite, and a lot of enthusiasm.
Visit a Children's Museum
Check out the dinosaurs, learn about science or bugs, or just about anything. Most children's museums are hands-on for kids. In the Boston Children's Museum, kids enter through a multi-story climbing structure. Work on a construction site or go on a cross-country flight. There is even a new play space for little ones.
Thank you so much to everyone who came out to enjoy #EngineersWeek with us! We had a blast exploring all the things we can create together by embracing our inner #maker. pic.twitter.com/ByP4mQm0II
— Boston Children's Museum (@BosChildMuseum) February 24, 2020
Easter Egg Hunt
Many communities feature an Easter egg hunt for little ones. Or do it yourself. You can buy kits to color eggs with or use food coloring to dye them yourselves. Kids love to cook, and to do crafts so this combines both.
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Spring Cleaning
Get rid of clutter in your kid's rooms by collecting outgrown pre-loved toys and clothing to donate to kids in need. Or save them for a garage sale and let the kids donate the proceeds to a good cause.
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