To have a frugal fantastic fun-filled summer, planning and forethought are some of the basic essentials needed. Here is a planning guide that actually works, although it will take about a little time to complete, you will save much time. I've successfully used this simple (and I mean simple) method for years.
Items needed are:
- A Calendar
- A Note pad and pencil
- Events and Activities Resource
- Newspapers
- Parent Magazine
- Internet resources
Once you've gathered up all of these items you are ready to start. You need to include the kids in on this project; if possible. It's their summer vacation, and things tend to go smoother with them knowing that they have had a major input in this decision making process.
Ok Ready!
Start filling in your calendar with any special events, on going events and activities that you can.
Don't forget to Fill in Family Vacations, Birthday Parties, Personal Appointments or any other family get together's, first. If any event requires a preregistration, tickets or reservations, make sure to list these events on the day before you need to make reservations, as well as on the event day itself.
Remember there is no way you can attend every function and activity that you have listed in your calendar. The whole idea is to have a pre-planned daily activity available at your fingertips.
With one glance a day you will know what is available for the next few days without spending precious time hunting down something for the kids to do.
If you want to stay at home on any particular day, just cross off that day. It can also be used as an extremely good method of discipline - if the kids start acting up (bad behavior), just pick up the calendar and say "Oops Guys, looks like we're going to miss the Baseball game tomorrow" or "Sorry Girls, looks like the Picnic in the Park is being canceled".
Make sure to carry your notepad and pencil with you at all times, in case you see hear or find another must do happening around town. Once you've got your calendar filled, you will only need to update it, occasionally, if at all.
