Times are tough, this I know, for the economy tells me so!  It can be challenging entertaining children, on a budget, these days.  Here are some family-friendly ideas that won't break the bank!

Volunteer!  The possibilities are endless & your warm heart can greatly impact many.  Consider these locations/ideas: animal shelters, nursing homes, homeless shelters, the environment, children's hospitals, etc.  So many opportunities are available! http://www.volunteermatch.org, http://www.networkforgood.org, http://www.volunteer.gov

Check your Local Library! Your library can be such an excellent resource for children of all ages and interests. Most libraries have computers with internet access, which is excellent if you have multiple children! Be sure to check your local library for age-appropriate activities like story telling, magic shows, book fairs, contests, arts and crafts, guest speakers, movies, etc. You can even check out your libraries website for all sorts of freebies, without ever leaving home! You can download movies, listen to audio books, color, get homework assistance and the list continues! 

http://www.publiclibraries.com

Check your Local Park System! Your local or national park system can be an excellent educational source, too. Depending on where you live, many programs and activities are available all year. Look for programs to enhance your knowledge of animals, wildlife and other habitat. Learn about local history,boost your physical activity and enjoy the great outdoors! Parks may offer such activities like: hiking, biking, sledding, skiing, fishing, swimming, kayaking and even shopping! Consider purchasing a National Parks Passport and begin your outdoor adventure.  

http://www.nps.gov http://www.stateparks.com

Try Geocaching! You don't need an expensive GPS unit to get you started! Search for local geocaches by entering your address or zip code on http://www.geocaching.com. You can zoom in on the cache and convert the street map into a satellite map. Once you have an idea of where the cache may be located,use the cache's clue to narrow you in on the find! Here are some common geocaching terms to help you get started:TFTF= Thanks For The Find (something you may write once you found the cache) TNLNSL= Took Nothing, Left Nothing, Signed Log (indicates you didn't leave or take any trade items, but signed the log book. CITO: Cache In Trash Out (encourages you to remove any trash!) Geocaches can be hidden and found in many places, check the website for placement rules and regulations.  Be sure to bring your camera, pen and small trade items!

Participate in a Scavenger Hunt! Maybe Geocaching isn't your thing, but people of all ages can enjoy a scavenger hunt! Whether you host one for a party, participate in one or are just curious, here is a site to help get you going! http://www.scavenger-hunt-fun.com/index.html,

Go Waymarking! Waymarking is a like a scavenger hunt, but chances are, you have already visited many locations. This site has it all. If you enjoy tracking where you've been & what you've done, this site is for you! Whenever you travel to a city, look it up & see what unique places it has to offer. Categories include: castles, firehouses, art museums, murals, post offices, signs, fountains, etc! Go through your electronic photos and post your waymarkings! http://www.waymarking.com

Go Bowling! Some bowling alleys will allow you to wear your own sneakers, which saves the cost of shoerentals! Also, call ahead for daily specials because oftentimes you can get two games for the price of one when leagues aren't playing! http://www.amf.com, http://www.bowlbrunswick.com

Check your Church or Any Local Place of Worship! You don't necessarily have to be a member to participatein church activities. Many churches expect guests and visitors and will make you feel welcome. Church events are a great way to meet other families. Common activities may include: volunteering, family game nights, field trips, organized youth and adult groups, community meals (pancake breakfasts, spaghetti dinners) fundraisers and charity events, rummage sales, etc. http://www.churchseek.net

Check your Communities Website or Newspaper! This may include local parks and recreation andcommunity centers. Many communities have family activities planned several months in advance. Look for sidewalk and window decorating contests, fairs and festivals, car and art shows, outdoor concerts, parades, seasonal sports, dance lessons, puppy-training classes, themed dance parties, etc.

http://www.newspaper.com

Visit Local Museums! Maybe you have "been there, done that", but there is so much more to museums than local artists & Picasso! See what your local museums offer for the family! Typical sessions may include: Family Night, Kid's Pop Art, Duct Tape Art, Textiles, Calendar Making, Musical Instruments and the list goes on! Also, consider looking for museums that don't have art! There are aquarium, aviation, collectibles, landmarks, medical, music, people, science, toys and wax museums! Possibilities are endless! The cool thing about museums is that your yearly membership may be tax deductible and you can get discounts to other types of museums all over the country! http://www.MuseumSpot.com

Go Orienteering! Orienteering is a great sport for many reasons. It is very inexpensive (yearly family membership may cost as low as $10!), you don't need any special equipment (compasses are $2 or you can borrow one at an event), courses are designed for all skill levels and events are held all over the world! You can put as much, or as little, as you want in this "thinking" sport. Fun for the whole family begins here: http:/www.us.orienteering.org/

Go to the Zoo or Aquarium! Believe it or not, but if you buy a a yearly pass from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, you will be able to get free, or discounted, admission to hundreds of other zoos and aquariums! Plan your vacations around a city with a great exhibit to really get your money's worth! http://www.aza.org

Take Me Out to the Ball Game! No, not to see the New York Yankees or even college games. Head down to your local ball field, school playground, recreation center, ice arena, YMCA or a local school to watch inspiring athletes! There is much better people watching at these events & you probably won't have to pay to park or pay $5 for a hotdog! Support your local athletic department. If your children aren't old enough to play sports, or just aren't interested, they can learn good sportsmanship by being in the audience. Make it a family tradition by attending the High School's football games or Track & Field events. Check out your school's website for game times!