Free activities for families may be a great way to make memories and have a lot of fun! There are tons of ways to do this!
I spent some time today going over photos from a few years ago.
Some of these memories were when I had $1.78 in my checking account! What was amazing to me was their smiles! Every single picture had a smiling kid. That alone made this Mama’s heart happy!
Here are some additional ideas on how to handle money as a single mom:
https://www.singlemomoutwest.com/skills-for-single-moms/single-mom-financial-tips/
Their perception of life is the reality to them.
They do not see the bank account numbers, the divorce papers, or the mess on the floor.
They measure life in love, feelings, and experiences.
I’ve made enough mistakes, but I am determined to give them good memories!
Maybe in the long run, they will look back and think, “Yep, Mom made some bad mistakes. But she tried.” And hopefully, I’ll get some credit for that.
As I looked back at these pictures, I saw happy kids. And I’m so glad.
I also realized two things. First, most pictures were taken when I didn’t have a penny. And secondly, they had no clue we were broke. And they were still happy.
Looking back made me realize that I had gotten this wrong.
I had spent so much time worrying about what I couldn’t give them that I didn’t understand what I had given them.
At the beginning of the separation and subsequent divorce, I had no idea what I was doing, just a deep desire to give these little ones the best.
I went back to my roots for this.
I learned these basic lessons about fun and life growing up. Maybe they will help you.
There is a limit. A limit provides guidance and direction. It’s not a killjoy.
It’s okay to say we do not have the time or money for that activity. There’s no harm in that. It allows you to keep looking for the next great experience!
Teaching kids limitations is part of reality. Learning to say, “Sounds fun, but not in the budget!” is healthy.
Splurge when you can, but if you can’t, take advantage of the great experiences anyway.
Look for doable and positive.
I live in the Mountain West. In the summer and fall, we are outside.
It’s a little more challenging in the winter, but we manage.
There are card games, board games, museums, and an occasional sledding or ice-fishing trip.
Don’t let money be an excuse for not having fun and adventures. We only get one life, and they only get one childhood.
The following ideas don’t take much money but can provide great memories.
Fishing.
Seriously, it’s one of the best things to do with kids.
Now, I would be amiss not to warn you about tangled fishing lines and slimy worms. You will get dirty. They will get dirty. But it is a hoot! And the kids love it!
Grab a Grandpa or someone who can fish and head to the lake. (You may need to wait a few months until summer! ) Here are some YouTube videos to get you on your way!
Museums.
Please check your area for museums that are free or have a minimal charge. This is a great learning experience for everyone and fun!
Libraries.
Libraries often have fun days for kids. Even simple things like picking out your books have been exciting for my kids.
Camping.
It is another adventure that can be cheap if managed correctly. Camping has been one of my favorite things to do with kids.
You will need to research where you can camp locally.
There is usually a minimal amount due for the campsite. And then you will need to pay for gas and food.
But it typically is cheaper than spending money on motel rooms and restaurants. And the price of the tent.
Please pay attention to the safety of an area. As a single mom, you must be extra careful of strangers.
You must also know about natural hazards such as cliffs, water areas, and predators.
If you are inexperienced with camping, you may want to start in your backyard. It’s a lot of fun, and you don’t have to use the outhouse!
This can be an enjoyable activity, but you need to be aware of the dangers that come with it.
Here’s a great video to get you started.
Sledding.
It’s a fantastic adventure for the wintertime if you get snow in your area!
Most importantly, get started.
There are hundreds of activities that can build great memories and healthy relationships.
You cannot go wrong if you show up with a good attitude and an adventurous spirit!
