Picnic at the Park: Low Cost Fun in the Sun

June 17, 2008 | Written by: Kelly Franklin

Let's go fly a kite, up to the highest height! Once again, we find ourselves immersed in warm, sun-filled days, and the school bell has resonated throughout the halls its final time, unleashing our children into the blissful, highly-anticipated summer break.

Oh, but there is no need for the family wallet to worry because, fortunately, finding fun, thrifty things to do together isn’t that difficult. It simply takes a little imagination and thinking pre-HDTV, PC, and video games era. Dive into your memory bank, and recall those exciting things you did as a child when you had no access to the technological widgets of today’s times.

To help jumpstart the flow of ideas, here is a key tip to keep in mind: Seize the opportunity that a beautiful day brings. Yes, I know it sounds like a fortune cookie blurb, but it’s a known fact that simplicity promotes happiness. One example of a fun event includes the following:

Pack a basket full of whole wheat sandwiches, fruit, and water
Grab a large, ultra soft blanket
Bring Frisbees and kites
Stake a spot at your local park

Yes, you’ve got it! A picnic! Can you remember the last time you and your children just sat down, relaxed, and enjoyed what nature has to offer? So often we get caught up in the daily demands of school and work. A picnic virtually makes time stand still and allows you to enjoy nature’s smallest and often times, forgotten treasures.

From the time you spread the blanket out on that green grass, you become aware of the beauty of nature. You and the little ones will love snacking on finger sandwiches and savoring super sweet strawberries. Who needs salty cheese burgers and fries from the fast food restaurant when you can tote your own healthy lunch. Wiggle your toes freely and, through munches, let your laughter lace the air as you watch squirrels give chase in the distance.

Next, pull out the Frisbees, pair up, and see who can whip them through the air the fastest. With a price range around $8.99 from KB Toys, this game will definitely spark your child’s interest. A simple game of Frisbee will keep the kids mobile; they’ll run after those flying discs at full speed, eager for their turn in the game.

And, if the wind picks up, then kites are next on the list. The average price for a kite is $11.99 at Toys “R”Us stores. They come in a variety of shapes including butterflies, airplanes, and diamonds. To fly a kite, follow these simple instructions:

Seek out an open area in the park where there aren’t many trees
Hold the kite with both hands and toss it into the wind
Run with the kite behind you as you continue to grip the string
Release a bit of string as the kite hits a height you are comfortable with

The kids will appreciate the kite flying lesson, and once they get the hang of it, they will truly love flying them.

By days end, your children will wobble into the house, weary from a day filled with good times. As a mom, feel proud that you gave your kids a taste of your childhood activities. Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the art of finding a cost efficient way to have a blast with your family.

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