Free and Inexpensive Summer Activities

It's that time again!  In preparation for summer break, here is my list of ideas for summer reading programs and other activities that will cost you little to nothing.  I've updated the links and added a few new ones to this year's list.

First the summer reading programs. Here are the ones I've come across so far. Most of these we have participated in before.  Click on the links with each description to be taken directly to the websites for reading log print outs or more information.

Barnes & Noble--Your child reads 8 books.  You print out and record the books on a reading log, and then your child gets to pick out a free book at the store.

Half Price Books--Print out a reading log. If your child reads 15 minutes a day for the month of June, they can turn in the reading log for a $5 store gift card. Repeat the same for July.

Scholastic Books--Log the minutes your child reads and they can earn prizes from the website. 

Book Adventure--This program is through Sylvan Learning Centers. Sign up for a free account. Your child takes short quizzes (5-10 questions) on books they have read. They earn points for completed quizzes, and can can use the points to "buy" prizes from the website. Emma did this and very quickly earned enough points for a free 6 month magazine subscription to Highlights.

Chuck E. Cheese--Print out and complete a reading log.  Your child will get 10 free tokens for reading each day for 2 weeks.

HEB Reading Club--Print a reading log from their site. Fill it out and send it in to receive a free t-shirt and other prizes.

Pottery Barn Kids--Join them in stores for story time or read the books at home.  When your child has read 8 of the books on the list, they will get a free book. (Check locations near you for participation.)

Pizza Hut--They have summer reading incentives, like drawings for books and other prizes, through their "Book It" program.

Also check with the public libraries in your area. Almost all offer summer reading programs, free classes, movies and more!


For other fun summer activities, have you heard of these?

Kids Bowl Free--Sign up and each week they'll send you an e-mail with vouchers for 2 free games, for each day of the week, for each child you register. You still have to pay for shoe rental, but each child can bowl up to 2 games for free each day of the week, all summer long.

Free Tennis Lessons--Through Des Moines Park and Rec., for kids ages 9-14.  See link for details including locations and times.

Cinemark's Movies for $1--On Tuesday and Wednesday mornings throughout the summer, Cinemark Cinemas will be showing kids movies for $1 each. Click on the link and find your nearest theater to see their list of summer movies.

Carmike Cinemas for $4--On Thursday mornings during the summer, select Carmike Cinemas will be showing kids movies for $4 each.  The price of admission includes a small popcorn and small drink.  Find a theater near you to see if they are participating this summer.  (If you live in Des Moines, the Johnston theater is participating.)

Kids Skate Free--A lot like Kids Bowl Free, but with rollerskating. Unfortunately there are no skating rinks in Iowa participating at this time, but several other states have rinks participating in the program.

Michaels--The craft store has Kids Club crafts and activities most Saturday mornings.  In the past, some have been free, but most of the regular Saturday morning craft sessions are $2 per child, and last about 30 minutes.  Check online or call your local store for more details.

Home Depot--They offer free workshops for do-it-yourselfers of all ages (kids and adults) and experience levels.  Check their online schedule for workshops and dates.

Lowe's--They offer free kids clinics once a month, similar to Home Depot.  Check their website for details and times.

Groupon--Keep an eye out for great discounts through Groupon.  They often have discounts available for zoos, museums, restaurants, and other family-fun activities!  If you're traveling this summer, don't forget to look for deals in the city where you'll be spending time!

And finally, check to see if there are any free splash parks near your house! We have several in our area that range from a small, simple wading pool to  larger wading pools with lots of fountains.

If you have any other inexpensive or free ideas for fun things to do with your kids this summer, please post a comment and share!