Entertaining on One Income
Kids like to be entertained and when there is suddenly only one income (or almost no income), entertaining them as you used to can become virtually impossible. Movies are rather expensive and when you take into account that they will also need transportation and treats, sending the kids off to see a movie is virtually impossible on only one income.
Here are some things that you can do in order to entertain the kids and save yourself some money as well.
- Watch movies at home - There are many things that I will get rid of in order to cut costs if our income was reduced. My Netflix streaming account is not one of them. For $10/month I get access to 1000s of movies and educational documentaries. Get comfy on the couch and enjoy some family time. I can't even go to one movie myself for that price and if I need to go potty, I just hit "pause"
- Take the kids to a park - If you have young kids, you could take them on an excursion to the local park. Pack a lunch and take some water bottles as well as a blanket and sunscreen. Let the kids play on the equipment and explore the world around them. They will have fun socializing with others and a day in the park will not cost you an arm and a leg. Do you have older kids? If everyone has bicycles, load them in the car and head to the nearest bike trail. You will get the added benefit of some exercise!
- Take them to the library - Free or low cost entertainment can be found at the local library. Often there is story time for small children and teaching them to like books will spur their imagination into making their own stories.
- Gather up your craft supplies - Gather up your craft supplies and get creative with the kids. Grab the markers, some construction paper, glitter, beads, glue, and stickers. Some inexpensive craft materials can be purchased at the dollar store. Crafts are a great way to keep the kids entertained when they are bored or when the weather outside is not co-operating.
- Be honest with your children - No parent likes to tell their children that they can't afford something that they would have easily previously been given. But - if that is your current reality, explaining your financial situation to them in an age-appropriate way can be very good for your relationship. Your children will know that, you aren't being mean for not taking them out for ice cream - it's just not in the budget right now and you also can't wait until it is one again.
These tips will help to keep your kids entertained when you are living on a limited budget. Check to see if there are any community events in your neighborhood that are free and family-friendly.
Don't forget to read my post on What To Do When You Lost Your Job as well as How To Survive Going From Two Paychecks To One.
