Fun (AND FREE!) activities to do with your child:

* Join a playgroup.  This can often be a child's 1st and most meaningful experience with other children their age.  It can also provide an excellent opportunity for you to socialize with other moms and dads to discuss the ups and downs of parenting.  Playgroups are often as important to the parents as they are to the children because it can be a great time to discuss issues and gain support from parents who have children the same age as yours. Many playgroups are held weekly for 1-2 hours at a members home.  Joining or starting a playgroup is almost always free and is a great way for you and your child to meet some new friends. 

Interested in more details about playgroups?  

Playgroup information can answer many of your questions.

*Attend "free" trial classes:

Many children's activities such as gymnastics, drawing, karate, etc. offer free trial classes.  The object is to show you and your child how fun their program is and hope that you will return to join.

The advantage:  Attending a trial class will help you to get some good ideas about what kinds of activities your child enjoys. You might then want to re-create the experience at home or consider incorporating it into a playgroup experience.

The disadvantage: Trial classes are not truly altruistic. Programs offering them usually know they have something good to offer.  It may be hard to resist the temptation of joining if your child enjoys the experience.  If this is the case, this option may not be for you.  However, if you did decide to join, these programs are sometimes less expensive than a preschool program.  They can usually be joined for short periods of time (monthly), and will still provide the socialization and other benefits of a preschool experience.

* Join story time at your public library

Most libraries have free weekly story times for children ages 2 and up.  Many have "toddler story times" for ages 2-3 years old, and "preschool" story times for ages 3-5.  They usually last about 25-30 minutes and are a great way to socialize your child.  It is a good way to begin the understanding of following directions and listening to the librarian in the role of "teacher".  They often include songs and finger plays, as well as stories.  This is an excellent resource for anyone who has this program available in their area.

* Check your park/recreation center

Most communities have centers that provide activities for children at little cost.  Examples include swimming, crafts, gymnastics, and sports. Often they last for only a short time (a month or two) which allows enough time for the child to decide if the activity is enjoyable without a huge time of cash investment on your part.  You can also continue to practice what was learned at home for free.  (If you don't have a pool, most cities offer swimming at low-cost to the public).

* Call your chamber of commerce

Often there are many activities and programs available in your community that you may not yet know exist.  Your local chamber of commerce is a great resource for free and low cost activities in your area.

*Spend time doing crafts

Colors, finger paint and play dough will delight any child for hours.  Want to make these yourself? Our section on Craft Recipes will give you lots of good ideas for a fun day at home.

* Local Parks

Parks are a great (and free!) place for you and your child to get some activity an to enjoy a picnic lunch.  This is a great place to hold a playgroup or to meet other moms or dads while your child plays with other kids. If your feeling adventurous... fly a kite!

* Local Zoo

You can purchase an annual family pass to the zoo and enjoy as many outings as you want.  Usually the cost of a family pass pays for itself in about 5 visits.  This can be a fun and educational experience for your child and is also a great place for a playgroup.

 * Visit a Lake or Stream

Kids love to throw rocks in the water, and fishing is an all-time favorite.  Remember that everything is new to a child, and almost all of them love the good outdoors.

Final thoughts:

The possibilities are endless.  Some of the best memories from childhood come from the everyday ordinary activities.  Taking a bike ride, inspecting an ant hole, or jumping in puddles on a rainy day.  Whatever activity you engage in with your child, remember the goal is simply to enjoy your time together and to have some fun.  As a parent, you are the most important influence in your child's life.  All other experiences your child has will be built upon the foundation that you provide.

Take some time to smell the roses with your child.  A strong relationship now will benefit your child more than anything else in the world.