by Vlado
With the summer coming to an end you’ll probably be thinking about having a few days out with the family.
Indeed, a bank holiday is on the horizon so what better time to spend with the kids away from the hustle and bustle of normal life?
But sadly millions of people will this year be forced to forego a day out with the loved ones because they simply cannot afford the expense.
With stagnating wages, high unemployment and hefty debts, many people are finding times extremely testing at present so it’s understandable that they do not want to spend money willy nilly.
If you’re still having trouble with debt and are unable to take the kids for a day out then why not consider a Individual Voluntary Arrangement to consolidate all your debt into one easy monthly payment.
But an enjoyable day out can in fact be enjoyed without spending a fortune.
According to a recent study conducted by the supermarket chain Sainsbury’s, children enjoy cheap days out as much as ones which involve a decent amount of planning and expense.
Children aged between five and 11 were asked to rank what they most like doing on a day out or holiday and things like visiting zoos and theme parks came well down the list.
Indeed, the top three results were all things which cost no money at all.
Top of the list was playing in the garden. This was followed by having water fights and building dens.
Other simple delights, such as feeding the ducks at the park, picking berries and eating ice cream also ranked amongst the top ten.
According to Sainsbury’s research, the average parent spends £366 (or £183 per child) keeping their children entertained during the summer holidays.
And almost three in every ten parents (29 per cent) said that they worry their children will easily get bored if they do not take them on costly day trips to theme parks and seaside resorts.
Child psychologist, Dr Linda Papadopoulos, said: “Summer memories last us a lifetime and parents can learn a lot from what their children have told us in this study.
“While they are busy spending money on costly activities to ensure their kids have a good summer, children mostly value the simple pleasures that summer brings, and spending time with friends and family.
“For kids, quantity time with their parents is just as important as quality time.”
She added: “In terms of pleasure per penny, it’s the everyday outdoor fun, which takes little time or money to organise that far outweighs the more orchestrated expensive excursions.”
Taking your children for a day out in London may sound like an expensive do, but a trip to the nation’s capital does not have to be a wallet-breaking experience if it is done properly.
Late last year the Daily Mirror published an extensive list of things which can be done in London for little or no expense.
One of its top recommendations was a trip to the Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green. There children can look at toys from yesteryear, watch a puppet show and even visit a pop-up circus. And what’s more, entrance is 100 per cent free.
Other places in London which can be visited for free include the National Gallery, The British Museum and The Southbank Centre.
Yes, mine just love a picnic in the park. So that day out might just cost me an ice cream for both. And its what they remember most going to the park, going to the beach or playing in the garden through out the summer holidays.
My parents once asked my sister if she enjoyed her holiday to Florida (she’s be about 6 years old), she said yes, but like Blackpool more!