Day at the Beach: Pack snacks, drinks, shovels and pails and head to the beach. Your cost will include gas to get there and back but that’s it.

Water Day: Skip the drive and have a water day in the back yard. Turn on the sprinkler, grab some water balloons and water guns and have fun. Just make sure to limit the amount of time used for the sprinkler, we want to teach our kids about conserving water.

Local Library: Visit your local library; look for days when they have activities or special quest. This can keep the kids entertained for hours in a quite setting.

Volunteer: Call a few local charities to see if any allow children or young adults to volunteer (under adult supervision).

Create a play: Have the kids write, produce & star in their own play. Have them rehearse and then perform for mom, dad or the grandparents that night.

Lemonade Stand: Teach kids about entrepreneurship while having a great time. Have them use some money they have saved up or “loan” them the start up, $10 would be plenty. They will need to purchase supplies like lemons, sugar, cups and ice. Have them get other kids in the neighborhood involved, they can work in teams promoting the stand, selling, making lemonade, etc.

Bike Parade: Have the kids decorate their bikes or scooters from things they find around the house. The kids can get their friends involved and ride around the neighborhood in a bike parade.

Museum:The Houston Children’s Museum has family free night every Thursday from 5 – 8pm. Admission is free and parking is only $3. Visit www.cmhouston.org for more information.

Now that you have a few activities that are budget savvy…here are a few restaurants that will help you keep your summer budget in line.

Denny’s– Kids eat Free select nights at participating locations. For kids 10 and under from 4pm to 10pm. Get up to 2 free kids entrees from the kids menu with the purchase of an adult entrée. Check your local Denny’s to see if they offer Kids Eat Free.

James Coney Island– Wednesdays from 4pm to close. Every regular combo meal purchased, get a kiddie combo meal free. In store dining only, child must be present.

Luby’s – Saturday all day, kids eat free with a purchase of an adult meal. $2 kids meal, Wednesday after 4:30 pm with a purchase of an adult meal. Offers may vary by location.
Call ahead to any location that offers Kids Eat Free for specific details and to make sure they still have the offer.

Have a great Summer!!