Including, but not limited to, cutting back on recreational items like eating out and vacations. I fully understand that many families are in a crisis, and taking a vacation or eating at a restaurant, is the least of their worries. I am not minimizing their plight but rather reminding some of us, including myself, that we can learn a lot from the older generation.

By today’s standards, our parent’s generation was miserly. Nevertheless, frugality had its benefits and my family was no different. Growing up my family lived a comfortable life. As I listened to some of my colleagues discuss how they are cutting back on their family plans for the summer, I started thinking about what we use to do for family fun in the summer. I do not remember going on any fancy vacations or summer camps. That got me thinking of things we did for fun when I was young, and how some of those ideas can translate to today’s families.

After speaking with several of my colleagues, and a variety of my friends, I came up with the following list of low cost, or no cost, activities. I submit that these activities may not be possible for many of the readers from around the world, and therefore, those of you outside of the United States please share your ideas from the place(s) where you reside.

1. Many communities organize a variety of events for children during the summer, including but not limited to local pools. Oftentimes, families with low incomes (even those with temporary financial challenges) can send their children free, or with discounted fees.

2. At a nominal fee, or even free, many states have beautiful state and national parks. The great outdoors is a wonderful way for families to have an outing. Pack a lunch from home and save! Growing up my extended family and I spent every single weekend at a variety of state parks where we fished, played sports, and went hiking. Today these are some of the most memorable moments of my childhood.

3. Local museums are usually free. Those of you that live near large metropolitan areas are lucky in this regard, especially those who live near Washington D.C., where the Smithsonian Institute manages a variety of wonderful museums, which have no entrance fees.

4. Public beaches are another place where other than parking; you can enjoy a wonderful day with your family and/or friends.

5. If your county, or township, has a Department of Recreation and Parks, then visit their website. This local government agency has wonderful offers for discounted tickets to amusement parks, aquarium, and other local facilities (community pools, theater, and symphonies) for their residents.

6. The public library is a wonderful resource for your children. Many libraries have summer programs for kids and activities free of charge. Not to mention books and movie rentals are also available at no cost to you.

This is not an exhaustive list, but rather some general ideas about sharing some quality time with your family. You may even learn a thing or two along the way!

Links
http://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm
http://www.si.edu/
http://guides.travel.msn.com/Guides/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1078607