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Frugal Family Time
If we were to believe the commercials on television, we'd think that a child simply can't be happy without the latest toys and expensive video games. Actually, the gift kids love most is your undivided attention, which is free. And though toys and games are fun to have, they need not cost a fortune to be enjoyable. Time spent together as a family can be a treat for all and doesn't have to break the budget. It may require a stretch of the imagination on occasion.Dining In
Once in a while (not just on a significant occasion, such as a birthday), set your table as if company were coming and treat your children like honored guests. Serve their milk in special glasses, light candles, have music playing in the background, and encourage the family to dress up. That doesn't have to mean putting on uncomfortable fancy clothing: Everyone might wear dress-up clothes, pajamas and bathrobes, or Halloween costumes for fun. The whole occasion won't cost you a cent more than a regular meal.
Penny-Wise Picnics
Impromptu picnic meals, out of doors or in, can made a simple meal much more fun and save you money in the bargain. Your kids will enjoy it, too.
- When you are spending the day with your kids at a park or an amusement center, avoid the added expense of buying food there; pack a lunch instead. Include a treat or two so your children will feel that the lunch is special. Save yogurt containers and margarine tubs to use as disposable containers for convenience.
- On a rainy or snowy day (or a real scorcher) when you're stuck inside, surprise your child with an indoor picnic. Spread a tablecloth or old bedspread on the floor, serve picnic foods on picnic plates, and, for added atmosphere, set houseplants around the cloth to create an outdoorsy atmosphere.
Unfortunately, taking the whole family out to the local quadraplex for the latest hot movie can really break the bank, even if you look for bargain matinees. (The cost of popcorn alone can top the cost of matinee tickets!) Thankfully, with videos and DVDs, movie night can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. Movie rental stores usually have a "cheapie" night or two during the week, and libraries loan videos and DVDs free. Make loads of popcorn, turn out the lights, and curl up with a film that the whole family can enjoy.
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