Family Fun on the Cheap
Have a safe and fun summer everyone!
Let’s Go Camping! www.todaysparent.com/activities/lets-go-camping
One of the most inexpensive methods of travel is camping, and Today’s Parent offers practical advice on family camping to parents (see “Let’s Go Camping”), as well as a “Camping Essentials Checklist” and “25 Best Campgrounds in Canada”. Other articles which could be useful are “20 Ways to Save on Family Travel”, “Healthy Family Road Trip” and “Family Travel Smarts.”
Travelling with at baby or toddler for the first time? Get prepared by read Babes in the Woods by Jennifer Aist - http://spl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/441054012_babes_in_the_woods
Let’s Go Hiking! www.canadatrails.ca/hiking/hike_on.html
Here’s another inexpensive holiday activity for families to consider: hiking! The Canada Trails site includes links to public hiking trails located in southwestern Ontario, including our local Avon Trail. Trails have been rated by hikers. Click on Hiking “Tips” for wilderness tips and the Hiker’s Code of Ethics. As well, a link to regional weather conditions and another to the Trans-Canada Trail, are provided.
Family Corner www.familycorner.com
Check out this website for lots of free family fun ideas: crafts, printable colouring pages, recipes, games, contests and other fun stuff that you and your family can do together. The site also offers ideas for special holidays throughout the year, practical parenting advice, and advice about pets, education and decorating. Parents can subscribe to a free monthly newsletter or/and daily crafts, recipes and tips.
What’s to do in Perth County? www.visitperth.ca/
There’s a surprising number of activities for families right here in Perth County, such as golfing, swimming at the St. Marys Quarry, visiting the St. Mary’s Baseball Hall of Fame or attempting the incredible Ontario Corn Maze near Newton. At both the West Perth Thames Nature Trail and Wetlands and the Wildwood Conservation Area, families can hike, canoe or kayak, and see birds and wildlife. And there’s more – investigate Perth’s County’s website and also that of the City of Stratford.
What’s to do in Stratford? www.stratfordcitycentre.ca/events.php
Watch a free family movie outside under the stars in Market Square (downtown Stratford) each week, or attend some of the Stratford Summer Music events taking place this summer! (Some of the Summer Music events are free; some would be of interest to families, and some are outside.) Attend some of Stratford’s Canada Day events on July 1, including facepainting, games and wandering clowns in the afternoon at Market Square.
Lots to do at the Stratford Public Library and at PLOW! www.stratford.library.on.ca/events.htm
Check out the fun children’s programs happening at the Stratford Public Library this summer, where the theme is JUNGLES! and also the Public Library on Wheels (PLOW) programs offered at various locations in Stratford and Perth County (please see: http://www.pcin.on.ca/plow.htm)! PLOW programs and most Stratford Public Library programs are free of charge!
Attractions Ontario
www.attractionsontario.ca
Check out all the fun things to do across Ontario this summer – there is something to do in every corner of our province! And since we all like to save a few bucks, be sure to check the eCoupon section for savings.
Festivals and Events in Ontario
www.ontariotravel.net
Festivals are a great way to explore new cultures, food, sports and more. Many are free, or for a reasonal admistion. Try the Stratford Summer Music,
Ontario Beaches http://ontariooutdoor.com
Ontario has many beautiful beaches to explore – many just a stone throw away! Find the perfect beach for you, pack a picnic and go!
Frugal Family Fun Blog www.frugalfamilyfunblog.com
For a constantly updated listing of fun things to do on the cheap, visit the Frugal FamilyFun Blog. Great crafts, activities, and those ever useful money saving tips.
Ontario Rural Routes www.ruralroutes.com
Many day-tripping destinations are listed on this extensive resource, which focuses on rural and small-town attractions in Ontario. You may be surprised at how many destinations exist in your own region and just beyond! Includes links to maps and directions.
