Things to do with kids when you are broke

When money is tight there are many things we can do to enjoy life and not break the bank.

Here are a few:

Gather the kids, friends, and friends’ kids for a scenic day hike or a walk. Do a little homework to 

find a good location and take time to talk with kids about what the hike will be like and what things to take along and why. Get them to help make a little home-made safety kit with a few bandages, wipes, and ointment. Take insect repellent and sunscreen and layers of clothing for changes in weather. Don’t forget a lunch – get them to help make it. Talk about the things you see on the hike. Ask them to tell you about things they have learned in school regarding the things they see. Or sing together on part of the walk.

If it is raining, stay home and make something that they like. When my children were young and they wanted a Fisher-Price Star Wars toy, and we didn’t have the money to buy one, I found some cardboard boxes and we made one together. It took a whole day, but they played with it for a long time and because they helped make it, they took care of it.

Go to a free or low cost museum. Sometimes there are small museums that offer a glimpse into things that you or your kids don’t know. It’s worth a peek and then talk about what you see and why they liked it or didn't like it. Make a bowl of popcorn and some hot chocolate and discuss what you learned and how the museum could be improved.

Sometimes the thoughts of owning things are more appealing than actually having them. When we look at what is really most important in our lives and take time to spend with the people we love, then we are rich, no matter how broke we are.

Betsy Hanscom is the owner of Maine Warmers. On her blog you can find out how to make your own rice or corn sock. If you have kids, get them to decorate a sock with felt or other fabric -- nothing metallic -- and make your own rice sock. If you are not broke and want a fun gift, especially for a child with arthritis, consider a gift of an Al-the-Gator heat wrap.