Creating Priceless and Lasting Memories | Family Economics

By Andrea

With the hustle and bustle of life, creating memories with our boys can be challenging. And, when you’re on a budget and have multiple children, it can be a challenge to your wallet too. Sometimes you have to spend a fortune to do activities together.

However, there are many inexpensive ways you can create memories that are fun or even free! Here are a few we take advantage of:

1. Craft and home supply stores

Many craft and home supply stores offer free family events just for children. There is nothing required from you, and no pressure to make a purchase. These are fun, free events to do with a tangible memory to bring home. We still have our oldest son’s first construction from an event - a bird house.

If you can’t make it to these events, get inexpensive pre-packaged craft kits. Better yet, when you use coupons from the craft store, you can get an entire kit for one or more children for less than $10. Plus, displaying their works of art makes my heart just melt.

2. Movie nights

Our community park hosts a movie night. They have a huge screen displayed to show an old movie. Granted, most people have already seen these movies, but the experience of watching the movie outside under the stars is so much fun!

If you want to stay in, try a family movie night with a dinner theme. Have an intermission to grab dessert. You never have to miss the best parts because you control the pause button!

3. Libraries

Many libraries have special story readings. Sometimes, these are themed with a pajama night, or even their favorite book character. It’s fun to watch your child’s eyes light up as they listen to the story in their favorite attire. It’s almost like they are part of the story themselves!

What are ways you create memories with your family without breaking the bank?