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We all face those endless summer days when it is just too hot outside to play, or we’re hit by a summer downpour and the kids get antsy. You’ve played every board game and watched every DVD you own and need OUT of the house! Here are some budget ideas to help get you through.
Chuck-E-Cheese
Chuck-E-Cheese, it’s not just for parties! Stop by and let the kids play for free. They can fill out rewards calendars found here and get free tokens to play games, or they can just climb around on the indoor play areas. You can also get some good coupons on their site, and especially if you sign up for emails, for food and token combos. Great if you want to stop by for lunch or dinner and let the kids go crazy. We visit CEC often and they have recently changed their pizza recipe and it is MUCH better! A great spot for hot and/or rainy days.
Public Libraries
Check out your local Library for Story time and other kid friendly events. Georgia public libraries also allow you to check out a voucher for free admission to Zoo Atlanta for your family (check your local library for details), and Georgia park passes to save you on entrance fees! Also a great place to pick up a DVD for a rainy day along with your summer reading books!
Bounce House Centers
Places like Pump it Up and Jungle Jumpers are open during the summer for kids to come in and bounce! Bring a book and let the kids bounce until they can bounce no more! Check their webpages for times and fees.
Summer Movies
Check your local cinema for summer movie specials like free or reduced admission to special showings of kid’s films. Also check out your local $1 (or $2) cinemas for kid friendly features. When it’s hot outside it’s nice and cool in the theaters!
Bowling and Skating
Check out your local bowling alley to see if they have any summer specials, ours is offering free bowling for kids! Skating is another fun way to wear the kids out and stay cool and dry. Our local rink offers deals such as $1 skates times and pizza nights!
Shopping Malls
Some malls have great play areas for little ones. These can get crowded, so try and hit them early in the day before the crowds get there!
IKEA
If you happen to live close to and IKEA store you can stop by and drop the kids (potty trained only) off in the kids club area while you shop, hit the food court or just browse without little ones clinging to you!
Do you have any other great spots to cool off or stay dry this summer? Please share them!