School’s Out for Summer…

Now that school is out, what are you doing to occupy your kids this summer? While there is the summer camp route, here are some other activities you can enjoy with the kids for little to no cost.

Beach Bums

There are plenty of options to hit the beach in the area. If you can snag a parking spot, there’s the Stony Creek beach, which we love as it’s small and enclosed. Looking for a nice walk? Head down to the West Haven beach’s boardwalk where you can take a stroll, stop at the playgrounds on the beach or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. Here are some . And, of course, there are the state parks with Hammonasset and Rocky Neck being the closest. Not up for the sea? Chatfield Hollow offers a lake with a  swimming area, too. You can obtain a season pass through the DEP for $67. 

Parks and Playscapes

Let the kids burn off some energy at the playground. Whether you meet up with friends and make new ones, there, there’s fun for everyone with swings, slides, monkey bars, seesaws and open space to run! Some in-town options are and . Want a change of scenery? Some of my kids’ favorites include in Branford, Hannah’s Dream on Woodward Avenue in New Haven and  in Hamden, which not only has a playground but some farm animals, too.

Love Your Libraries

The library is a source of endless entertainment. Besides borrowing books, which is obviously great for , you can also borrow other media including CDs and movies. The and offer a wide variety of events for all ages including story times, crafts and reading incentive programs. Don’t forget to take advantage of the libraries’ museum passes, which gives you free or reduced admission to these museums.

Rainy Day Fun

While summer is all about getting outside, sometimes the rain–or the heat–forces us to take a break. Take advantage of a day indoors by reading some books to get a jump on summer reading lists or practicing writing or other skills. Looking to relax a bit, pop in a movie (don’t forget to check out the libraries’ selection) or do some coloring or another craft. Family Fun always has great ideas.

Take a Day Off

Let’s face it: while it’s fun to hang out with the kids now that school’s out, every once in a while you need a break. Don’t be afraid to take one. If a babysitter isn’t in the budget, maybe a family member would like some bonding time with your kids. Or you could always trade off with a friend. Have their kids over for a couple hours one week and send your kids to their house the next week. Even a few hours of ‘’ can be quite refreshing.

Check out this site for more day trip ideas.