Looking For Something Fun & Inexpensive To Do?

Connor and I are always out and about during the week, but things can get a little bit pricey and small things begin to add up. Part of my job as a stay at home mom is to budget. I have to watch what I spend to ensure we have enough money at the end of the month to build the savings in case of an emergency. Last year, I spent money willy-nilly, so one of my resolutions was to get better at where the money was going. So far, it's been a success!

Here in Portland, we have a Metro-Parent magazine. This is a great resource when you're looking for something to do with the little ones (or even big ones). It highlights special activities that are going on that month, along with a huge calendar of events. I usually take an afternoon and highlight all of the things I think Connor would be interested in. They're usually pretty inexpensive, and it breaks up what you do with your family. It's nice to switch things up, and experience something different!

Another thing we like to do, is visit the library. Connor likes to roam around and read board books, while Mommy does some looking of her own. Our libraries also have puzzles, bead blocks, and all sorts of other fun things for the little ones to play with. Aside from that, they also have a weekly storytime which includes reading, songs, fingerplays, and time after to play with other kids. And guess what? IT'S FREE! It's like taking a class that costs $45, for nothing. Zilch. Nada. It runs once a week, at the same time, so we can plan our schedule around it.

If you visit your local library, be sure to check out their calendar of events. I've done some looking, and thanks to their calendars, Connor and I have gone to juggling, puppet shows, firetruck & ambulance days, storytellers, and kid days. Gotta love the library!

Oh yeah. Portland libraries have cultural passes as well. This allows you to visit a specified place in Portland for NOTHING! It's a one day pass, and you have to be in good standing with the library to reserve it. It's like a "preview" to the place you're going, so you can decide whether or not you want to buy a year-round pass. 
If you visit a place pretty regularly, it's worth the money to actually buy the membership, because in the long run it'll save you money. It's cheaper, and often you get more perks for being a member!

Not everything you do with kids has to be expensive. It takes a little time on your part, but if you're willing to do some scouring, you'll find some great things right within your community : )