Things to Do (on the CHEAP)

Let's face it -- kids are much happier when they are kept busy. When boredom sets in, the bickering and whining usually starts.

Why not keep the kids busy with a few inexpensive and free activities around your town?

Here are some invaluable resources I use when finding activities to keep my toddler busy without breaking my budget...

• AZ Active Kids - This site is specific to Arizona and has classes, free activities, and a calendar of events for local Arizona families.

• Go City Kids - Choose your location to search all sorts of classes and activites in your area

• Free-Attractions - Search for free things to do in your area (FYI, I get weird pop-ups on this site.)
  
• AZ Central - Arizona families can check out the latest events
  
• Local Community Centers - I can't praise these enough. We have taken many classes here for very cheap. We love ours!!


• Local Library - Check your local library for free events such as storytimes, stargazing, magic shows, etc. All Free! Plus, you get to borrow books, DVDs, and CDs for free!
  
• Parent Zone - Great resources and you can search local activities in your area
  
• Boundless Playgrounds - Search nearby parks that have these HUGE playcenters


• Things To Do - Loads of info. for things to do in your area


• Try an indoor play zone or boucehouse - Call or visit the company's website for coupons


• If the weather permits, find a splashpad at a nearby park.


• Lakeshore Learning - Offers FREE classes (w/crafts) for kids ages 3&up


• Michael's Kids' Club - Every Saturday from 10am-noon, Michael's offers a kids' club for children 5-12. The cost is $2, and includes supplies. For even more fun, also be on the lookout for free Make-It-Take-It events that the whole family can participate in.


• The Home Depot Kids Workshops - Bring out the do-it-yourselfer in your child by taking part in the free Kids Workshops at Home Depot. Workshops take place the first Saturday of each month from 9am-noon at all store locations, and even include a free orange apron for your child. Adult participation is required.


• A. C. Moore Kids' Crafts - Looking for even more crafting fun? A. C. Moore offers free weekly craft classes for kids. Just check with your local store or on the website for dates and times.


• Lowe's How-To Clinics for Kids - Lowe's is another good source for free D-I-Y kids' projects. Clinics are offered on a bi-weekly basis from 10am-11am, and all building materials and tools are provided. Spend an hour with your child, and come away with a cool project that you built together.


• Toys "R" Us In-Store Events - Crafts and games are just some of the things that you'll find at one of Toys "R" Us' free in-store events. Check you local store location or the website for a calendar of upcoming events in your area. Then, enjoy a trip to the toy store that doesn't have to cost you money.


• Barnes & Noble Storytimes - Foster a love of books in your child by participating in one of Barnes & Noble’s free storytimes, which include a story and a creative activity to go along with it. Themes and times vary by location, so check with your nearest store for specifics. Borders offers similiar storytimes.