School holidays bring the challenge of entertaining the kids while also managing the increased expenses that come with their constant hunger. Balancing the need for affordable entertainment and keeping the grocery bill in check can seem like a daunting task. But with some smart strategies and a little planning, you can entertain the kids and cut costs on your grocery bill.
Explore the great outdoors:
Nature provides a wonderful playground for children, and best of all, it’s usually free! Plan day trips to local parks or forests where the kids get to run free and enjoy the fresh crisp air. Pack some snacks and go on an adventurous nature walk.
Plan meals and snacks in advance:
Creating a meal plan for the school holiday period helps avoid those last-minute trips to the grocery store and impulsive purchases. Stick to a list when shopping and take advantage of sales, discounts and bulk-buying options that will save you money in the long run.
Plan DIY arts and crafts projects:
Arts and crafts projects are a great way to keep kids entertained, look for inexpensive supplies at discount stores or use recyclable materials from around the house. Set up a dedicated crafting area and encourage your children to explore their artistic abilities by painting, drawing, making collages or creating handmade cards. The possibilities are endless and are sure to keep the kids entertained for hours.
Cook in batches and freeze:
Prepare meals in larger quantities and freeze the leftovers for later. Batch cooking not only saves you time but also reduces the frequency of grocery shopping. Prepare dishes that can be easily portioned and frozen. This way, you’ll have a stash of ready-to-eat healthy meals on hand, reducing the need for expensive takeouts.
Check out your community’s event calendar for free or low-cost activities during the school holidays. Local libraries are offering storytelling sessions and craft workshops. Attend fairs, markets or community festivals where children can enjoy entertainment and games. These events also provide an opportunity for your kids to have fun and socialise with other children in your community without straining your budget.
Stock up on non-perishable snacks:
Kids often get hungry between meals, and having a supply of affordable, non-perishable snacks can save you money in the long run. Stock up on items like dried fruits, popcorn, chips, crackers and cereals. Avoid expensive individually packaged snacks and opt for larger quantities that you can portion out into reusable containers or bags.
Host a movie night at home:
Instead of heading out to the movie theatre, create a cosy movie night experience at home. Choose a family-friendly movie, pop some popcorn, and snuggle up with blankets and pillows. You can even make it more special by creating a DIY movie ticket.
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First Published on Cape Town etc
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