The Fourth of July is one of the most iconic and widely celebrated holidays in the U.S.; however, many of the celebrations are geared towards adults with the presence of alcohol and fireworks that could cause a safety concern for the younger kids. Although you may end up not celebrating the holiday with your friends, you can still have a lot of fun with your kids. These ten tips will allow you to have a safe and frugal Independence Day that the kids will absolutely adore. So, you won’t have to stress out about spending a fortune to entertain or keeping an extra careful eye on your kids, because your Fourth of July celebrations are sure to be a hit that will be emergency free.

1. Make Dessert
Nothing says holiday fun quite like pigging out on delicious foods. Luckily, the Fourth of July has a whole lot of amazing desserts that will allow the kids to show off their patriotism while teaching them a fine lesson in cooking. When it comes to making red, white and blue foods, you can work around your child’s age and skill level. A great starter dish is making a simple parfait using yoghurt, strawberries and blueberries. You may also want to start the kids out on a simple Jello parfait, which is a lot of fun and will allow them to have a blast while they eat too. Arranging a platter of red, white and blue food items is great too and will help your children prep for any party you may host. Older children might enjoy making cookies in the three colors or decorating a cake in red, white and blue. Popsicles are another option, but this will take greater cooking skills and patience. There’s plenty of recipes online too, so go wild with your red, white and blue desserts.

2. Pass Out Flags
Promoting community love to your children is a great way to celebrate Independence Day. One way to do this is to have the kids sit down and show off their crafting skills. Kids can color in pictures of the flag or even make their own with construction paper. Once the craft element of the task is complete then sit down with your kids and make a game plan. You may want the kids to pass the flags out to friends, family and neighbors in order to boost the spirit of the holiday. However, if you’d like to go a step further then the kids may want to pass them out at nursing homes, hospitals or even a Vet center. This will show the children to include all in their holiday fun while also cheering up those in need.

3. Make T-Shirts
One great way to keep kids entertained for cheap is to create their very own t-shirt. The Fourth of July offers many options which can work for various age levels. For instance, if you want to really add some fun to the event then you can use red and blue tie dye on a white shirt. This will create a patriotic look that will wow even the youngest of kids. You might also give the kids colorful fabric markers. They can create flags, fireworks and other holiday inspired designs to show off their creativity. If you want to get really creative, then you can transform the kids hands into adorable flags. If you keep the shirts in a similar design then you will be able to stand out as a group, which will also make it easier for you to keep traction of each other if you wind up going to a crowded event or even just the pool.

4. Go Historical
The Fourth of July is a great time to spend with friends and family, but it is also a time to celebrate history and those who fought for the freedoms we have today. Thus, it might be a good idea to plan something historical for your children to experience for the holiday. Museums are a great idea to explore for children that are old enough to understand what’s going on. Of course, you may have a hard time finding a museum that is open on the holiday. So, you may have to do a bit of planning to enjoy the experience prior to the big day. There are also a lot of great programs you can watch that are suitable for a wide range of ages. You can also find plenty of coloring or work sheets to help show your children all about the wonderful history behind the holiday.

5. Movie Marathon
There’s one thing that is pretty predictable when it comes to the Fourth of July. That is, it’s going to be hot. Rather than spending all day out in the sun at barbecues or other gatherings, you may want to enjoy having a movie marathon instead. This will allow you to keep cool and will let the kids nap as needed so they can stay up and watch the fireworks when it gets dark. Luckily, there’s plenty of movies to choose from when it comes to Fourth of July movies. Whether you want a simple patriotic movie or one that actually focuses on the Fourth of July, you’re sure to find something to add to the lineup. There’s even patriotic movies designed particularly for children. This should help make your choices easier than ever, so you can make sure everyone has a great time. Of course, you won’t want to forget your snacks for the marathon either, which will make the kids feel like they’re at the theater.

6. Games
One of the best ways to entertain kids is to play games. Kids can really get into games, no matter what they are, so feel free to use your creativity here. One easy way to do this is to take a classic game, like capture the flag and give it a patriotic twist. Of course, you can always come up with games like Memory, Guess Who and trivia games based on the holiday. There’s lots of fun options online, including things like pin the hat on the Uncle Sam, so a little research can go a long way when it comes to playing games with your kids. The kids may even want to show off their creativity and come up with their own games to play, which will make the day even more fun. As long as you make the most out of your time together, you’re sure to have a blast.

7. Get Crafty
Kids really respond to arts and crafts, so use your creativity to show them all about the holiday and how much fun they can have. Kids can do a wide variety of DIY crafts like making their own flags or creating decorative firecrackers out of toilet rolls and other crafting supplies. If you’re not feeling up to working on a big project on your own, then look online to find some free coloring sheets that will teach kids all about the holiday. This is especially great for younger kids and you can always hang the results up as holiday décor. Another option is to take to the sidewalk. Chalk will allow your child to make all sorts of patriotic designs that the neighbors will love checking out.

8. Educate
Many children go years without actually knowing what the Fourth of July is all about. You might want to take time during the big day to explain the history behind the holiday. Of course, you can base your lesson around the child’s age, so they will learn an appropriate amount that will give them more respect for the holiday. This is also a great time to start teaching your children about the Constitution, particularly the Bill of Rights. Older kids can learn a summary of the Bill of Rights, so they will grow up to know their legal rights in the country. This is also a great time to teach kids about firecracker safety. Even if your child won’t be around fireworks, you never know if a friend will have fireworks after the holiday. Knowing how to keep themselves and others safe in the presence of firecrackers is an asset that will help you set your mind to ease.

9. Firework Alternatives
Fireworks are actually banned in many cities and towns these days, but even if they’re not you may not want your child messing around them for safety reasons. Luckily, there’s plenty of great alternatives to choose from. For instance, you can easily fill up balloons with confetti and blow them up. Kids can pop the balloons or let them hang around on the ceiling for some time. Most kids love glow sticks too and they’re perfect to take outside to watch the fireworks later on. This is a safer option than sparklers and they won’t leave the kids feeling disappointed. Apart from that, you can always buy poppers for a low price at dollar stores, or use leftover poppers from New Year’s.

10. Go to an Event
If you don’t have any plans for the big day, then you may want to look around to see if there’s any activities offered in your community. Many locations will offer festivals, parades, food and games in a community area to help celebrate the holiday. Often, if the city is putting on the event, it will be free of charge, so you won’t have to worry about a thing. You can even pack your own food and drinks to help save even more money. If it isn’t a community event, then you may want to check to make sure the price is reasonable for the whole family before you commit. If there’s nothing in your area, then you could always look around to see if a nearby community will be hosting an event. Most areas will host a firework show too, which is sure to make the kids feel amazed by the holiday.

Celebrating the Fourth of July doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your fun for your kids. In fact, after you check out these tips you may have the best holiday of your life with your family. With a few simple plans and the smiles of your kids to light the way, this holiday is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, pack on the sunscreen, pull out your craft supplies and let the kids explore their history while having a blast.

Taking care of your skin in the summer can be incredibly tough. With the heat opening up your pores to let in dirt and the UV index on the rise, skin care may feel like a chore that involves spending lots of money on products. There’s a lot of ways to take back your budget in the skin care department though, so you won’t have to stress about spending too much when you’re planning a getaway with family or friends. With a few DIY tips and some basic skin care procedures, you’ll be ready to show off your sun kissed skin wherever you choose to go.

1. Exfoliate
Fighting off dead skin and build up can be one of the most powerful things you can do for your skin during the summer months. With the heat on the rise, your skin is more likely to become oily, which could lead to clogged pores and other problems that will make your skin look less than perfect. There’s lots of great exfoliators on the market today, but many cost a small fortune. So, make sure to look at reviews before you decide to buy something out of budget. Often, you can find off brand exfoliators for a much cheaper price than the original. You may also want to consider making your own exfoliator. Try using baking soda and vitamin e oil. There’s many recipes online though, so you can play around and see which works best with your skin. You may also want to consider buying an exfoliator pad for your face and a loofah for your body. This will help get rid of dead skin without forcing you to pay a bundle on a product.

2. Sunscreen
A lot of people know to put on sunscreen before they spend a day out in the sun. However, many still wind up skipping sunscreen when they head out of the house. You should always wear sunscreen, no matter the season or how long you’re going to be outside. The UV index doesn’t have to be high in order for you to get burned, so don’t take a chance with skin cancer here. Luckily, there’s some brands of makeup that come with sunscreen already in them, so you won’t even have to think twice about putting it on your face. With these working to help you stay safe you can easily save money and peace of mind. Of course, not all sunscreens are made equal. You should do a bit of research before choosing one as there are many that can leak toxins into the body.

3. Oil Free
The skin naturally produces more oil in the summer time, which can become a major problem if you’re not careful which products you are using. Believe it or not, but many soaps actually have oil in them, which can be a huge problem when it comes to keeping your face clean without bringing on a breakout. This can be easily avoided by simply checking the ingredients of your soaps before you buy them. You may have to come up with a routine with an oil based soap for winter and a non-oil based soap for summer, but once you have it down your skin will thank you. Another problem is some sunscreens are also oil based which can be a real problem when it comes daily use. Again, simply look at the ingredients before you buy. One of the leading factors to breakouts for women though is make up. Most of it is oil based. With a little research you should be able to find something worth wearing.

4. Go Make-Up Free
With so many makeups being oil based and the sun already opening up your pores more, you might want to consider going without makeup during the summer. You don’t have to do this every day, but even cutting your use of makeup for a day or two will help your skin heal and will allow you to get rid of dirt and crime trapped in your pores. You may find that going without makeup during the summer months is a bit exhilarating as you will be able to show your natural summer glow and beauty. If you keep up with your make-up free ways, you may even save quite a bit of money on the makeup you’re not buying. So, protect your pores this summer by skipping the makeup routine and giving yourself a little longer to sleep each morning.

5. Minimize Pores
A lot of people find pores to be unsightly when they’re large, which can be a difficult thing to deal with in the long summer months. There are ways to minimize the appearance of your pores though, which can also help keep dirt and grime out of them. One simple trip is an egg wash on your face, which basically requires you to use eggs and tissues. This is a great way to get rid of hair on your face too and will leave your skin feeling nice and soft. If you’re not crazy about putting eggs on your face then you can easily help clean your face and reduce pores using water and soap. First off all, you’ll need to wash your face with very hot water. Don’t scald yourself, but use water that is sure to open up the pores. You can easily achieve this by putting a hot rag on your face. Once your pores are opened, use your favorite soap to cleanse your face. This should allow the soap to get deeper into the pores to hopefully wash away black heads. Once this is complete rinse your face well and then place a rag with cold water on your face. The colder the better! This will help close your pores up. There’s lots of other tricks you can use, so do a little research online to find a method that works great for you!

6. Love Your Eyes
With late nights out and rising early to catch the sunset, summer may bring a few dark circles to your days. This can easily be remedied though, so you don’t have to feel like you haven’t slept in a week or two. One way to accomplish this is to use a raw potato on your eye. This will help get rid of the darkness, while also brightening up the skin around your eyes. The same can be accomplished with cucumbers or a tea bag. With this simple trick to help leave your eyes the focal point of your beauty, you won’t have to worry about dabbing on the makeup or dealing with people commenting on your restless eyes. These tricks will also work to help eliminate dark circles that allergies bring too, which can be a common problem in the dry months.

7. Rehydrate
Keeping your body hydrated in the summer is imperative. Make sure you drink lots of water throughout the day, especially if you find yourself out in the sun often. Simply by drinking water, you’re already doing your skin a huge favor which is certain to help you look and feel a lot better while you enjoy the summer months. Of course, drinking water isn’t the only thing you need to do to keep your skin hydrated during the summer months. You should always use lotion on your skin to help it maintain moisture and nutrients. Doing this after you take a shower, when your skin is still slightly moist, is one of the best times to use lotion. If you’re looking for a more natural lotion, then try coconut oil. It will help fight bacteria and will leave your skin feeling better than ever.

8. Skip Hot Water
A nice hot shower is always a relaxing way to get clean, but in the summer time it could leave your skin feeling dry and uncomfortable. So, you may want to take your shower down a notch if you can stand it. With the water drying out your skin, it can easily feel damaged and will force you to want to put more products onto it. The hot tub can also be a bit of pain in the summer too, so if you choose to use one make sure you use it sparingly and shower and lotion up after you do so. This should help you maintain healthier skin while you get through the heat waves.

9. Try Out New Products
If you’re already paying a small fortune for your skin care products, then you may want to explore the world around and you try out new things. For instance, if you’re currently purchasing items that are brand name, then look online to see if they have a generic counterpart. In most case they will, which should cut back on the amount of money you spend in the skin care department. Of course, you don’t have to stick with what you know. You may want to look into more natural products to keep your skin healthy. Things like coconut oil can go far when it comes to this. Not to mention, they can save you some money if you choose the correct ones. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to sampling products, then join a subscription service. There’s many available that will send you free samples of skin products as well as make up. Of course, every time you do try something new, make sure to put it on a small patch of skin in order to ensure you’re not allergic to it before use.

10. Treat Sunburns
Sometimes taking all of the precautions in the world won’t leave you safe from getting a sunburn. If this is the case, then make sure you take the time to heal the sunburn rather than just leaving it alone. Aloe vera is one of the best ways to do so and it will allow you to treat your skin with nutrients while it heals. You can find aloe vera just about anywhere, especially in the summer time. You might want to keep it in the refrigerator, or place the aloe vera in an ice tray and freeze it. This will bring a cooling sensation when applied that will make the pain of the burn go away for a little while. If you burn and begin to blister, then make sure you go to a doctor. Your physician or dermatologist will know the best way to approach such an intense burn, which can help make your skin heal better and help prevent skin cancers from popping up. There’s other ways to treat sunburns too, so do a little research online to see if you can find a way that suits you better.

Taking care of your skin is essential when it comes down to your overall health. However, this doesn’t mean you should have to pay a small fortune for these items. These ten tips should help you keep your skin looking radiant and healthy, without forcing you to spend hours on a health regime.

There’s no doubt about. Having a toddler in the home can be a lot of work whether the child is your own or you’re simply babysitting. These balls of energy are everywhere at this age, which may make keeping them entertained as tough as nails. Sure, there’s lots of crazy gadgets you can buy to do the job, but there are also some good old fashioned ways to keep the kids busy that won’t empty out your wallet. These tricks are friendly to those who aren’t a fan of crafting or to anyone looking for a way to keep one or more toddlers occupied long enough to get the dishes finished. So, get ready to hear the joy of your toddlers’ laughter because these ten tips are sure to bring lots of fun to your life.

1. Bring Out the Paint
The thought of bringing out paint for toddlers to use can be frightening. I’m sure images of your beautiful home repainted in tiny fingerprints comes to mind. However, you can still have fun with the kids without worrying about a huge mess. First of all, if you plan on doing finger painting then have the kids go outside and let them enjoy the sunshine as they create the next big masterpiece. You can also create a special paint area in the home, complete with barriers. Simply set up a baby gate or other place to block off the area and secure the carpet and walls with trash bags or newspapers. If you want your child to work on their motor functions, then grab a few kid friendly paintbrushes and let them go to town. Another way to enjoy painting without the mess is to simply place a variety of paints into a zip lock bag. The kids can enjoy moving the colors around and checking out their finger and hand prints in the colors. Finally, you may want to consider bath paints. These are perfect for an average bath time, but you can also use them as a cool down activity after the kids have played at the park.

2. Musical Instruments
You may need some ear plugs for this one, but children absolutely love to play with instruments. This is great, because there’s many different things you can make from home using items you probably already have. For instance, if you have a paper towel roll in your recycling then use it to create a variety of things. You can cover each end with paper or fabric and fill it with beans, rice, cereal, or even bells. The children will love expressing themselves and hearing how each item makes different noises. Another quick fix here is to pull out the pots and pans. Little kids love to pretend they’re drumming away, which can keep them busy for longer than most toys can. Of course, you can also buy cheap instruments at places like dollar stores, thrift stores and department stores if you’re not feeling creative.

3. Water/Sand Bins
If there’s a couple of things that always keep kids entertained, it’s sand and water. With sand, kids can dig, bury things build sand castles or simple enjoy the way it feels in their hands. Water, of course, is the same story as children enjoy splashing around, watching toys float and generally getting their hands wet. This is why a sand or water bin can be a whole lot of fun for a toddler. This is a great outdoor activity that you can do with kids if you can’t make it to the beach. The bins you need should cost very little at a department store and you can find cheap sand at most landscaping locations. You can also take this activity indoors if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Simply place trash bags down to help make clean up a little easier.

4. Playdough
Chances are, you probably played with playdough as a kid, so you already do it’s pretty awesome. Most kids love playdough because it allows them express themselves while playing with a sticky ball of dough. Playdough is great for all ages too, especially since it’s not toxic if kids happen to get some of it in their mouth. The good news is, it won’t cost a small fortune either, even if you go to the store and pick out the larger sets. However, if you don’t want to pay for playdough, then you can easily whip up a batch at home with things you probably have lying around the house. You may even want to add a variety of colors to the mix. If you want to keep the playdough free of dyes that may be harmful to your children if consumed, then use cool-aid packets to give the dough a vibrant color. You can also pull out cookie cutters and other baking accessories to help make playdough time even more fun. If a child really loves a design they made then you can always bake it or dry it out, so they can display it to all who visit.

5. Scavenger Hunt
If you don’t have a lot planned on a certain day, then consider setting up a scavenger hunt for your child to enjoy during the day. This can be arranged in several different ways. One way is to hide toys and have the child look for them throughout the day. You may also want to print out things like animals, colors, different cars, numbers or the alphabet. Tape these items in different places throughout the home and call out one specific thing for your child to look for. You will be surprised as to how much fun a toddler can have and how much energy they can burn off by simply running around finding things. This activity can also help with learning things like colors and so on as your child will learn through trial and error.

6. Chalk
When it comes to helping kids with motor functions, chalk is a great way to keep them busy while helping them develop their skills. Most kids love to draw and see the colors, which is why chalk is such a popular toy among little ones. The best thing is, it gives them a larger canvas to work with that can be washed off when you’re finished playing with it. Although you probably can’t expect your toddler to make masterpieces with their chalk art, you can begin working on things like shapes or their name. You can also help them with colors, which is sure to help out when they head to school. Apart from coloring with the chalk, you can easily come up with games to use with the chalk.

7. Create a Playlist
Kids react to TV shows and music as they play, so creating a playlist can help stimulate learning while your child enjoys their favorite toys. Most streaming services have a wide variety of children shows to choose from, which makes creating your playlist an absolute breeze. You can even place child locks on your streaming services to ensure the playlist doesn’t move on to other shows when it nears an end. This is a great way to give you control over what your child is watching, especially since some services will even let you customize based on each episode. Other streaming services for music also have a wide selection of children’s songs to choose from and you can even base your playlist based on nap time, play time and education time.

8. Rotate Toys
Kids love new things, but buying new toys all of the time can really hurt your budget. The good news is most kids have so many toys that they forget about the ones they rarely play with. In order to avoid this problem, you may want to consider only placing a few toys out at a time. After a couple of weeks to a month you can swap the toys around while your child sleeps. You don’t even have to put the other toys away in case the toddler has a connection to one of the older toys. Placing the toys in the bottom of the toy box will still give your child access to them while also allowing exposure to new toys that may spark their interest. Even if the child has had the toy for years, it will still feel fresh when rotated to the top of the toy bin.

9. Garden
Once your little one is big enough to walk, they’re also big enough to garden. Spending time in the garden at an early age will teach your child that it is a part of life and a necessity. At a young age, children can dig holes in the garden to help out with planting seeds. You can even let the child drop in the seeds and water them using a child-sized watering pot. If you’re lucky, you can easily find a set of children’s gardening supplies at a thrift store or in a dollar store. Of course, if you don’t have a garden to work in then you may consider the simple bean sprout in a zip lock bag experiment. This will at least help you show your child where food comes from and that healthy foods are good for them to eat.

10. Use Boxes
In a sense, children can be a lot like cats, especially when it comes to the glorious cardboard box. If you’ve ever bought your child a present and were bummed out that they enjoyed the wrapping more than the actual toy, then you probably know just how wonderful cardboard boxes can be. You can find a wide assortment of boxes in stores and in most cases you may be able to get them for free. These boxes can be turned into club houses, cars or anything else your toddler can come up with. With a little bit of markers and paints, you can do just about anything to make your child’s playtime even more fun. So, skip the pricey items for now, because a box can go a lot further than most toys can.

Toddlers are hard to keep up with, so keeping them entertained may be harder than you expect. However, there are some budget friendly ways to ensure your little one has a fun childhood while learning plenty of new things. With any luck, you’ll be able to transform these ten ideas into fun projects and play time events that will have your toddler giggling and learning every day. They’re only little for a short amount of time, so making sure their happiness should be less about the money and more about the bonding time.

Keeping up with your thespian habit or simply getting into theater, may leave you realizing just how pricey this hobby can be. However, the art of the theater can be a great way to enjoy yourself while broadening your horizons. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be all high prices. There’s actually many ways to make your hobby shine without having to fork over lots of your money. This will allow you to find more pleasure in your hobby, while helping you cut back on your entertain budget. So, start working on projecting your voice, painting your scenery and memorizing lines, because these tips are sure to get your hobby rolling.

1. Community Drama
Most communities offer a theater program that anyone can join. From open try outs to volunteer positions, if you’re really serious about getting into theater this may be the route for you. Of course, community theaters do have their own requirements for everyone that participates, so don’t expect to get a leading role or huge job when you’ve just joined the drama program. However, over time, you may be able to let your thespian light shine. The best thing about community programs is you don’t have to pay to join and most of the proceeds made from the play go towards funding the next play. You can usually find these programs at a college or city theater, so make sure to ask around if you’re interested in joining such a program. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to the leading part you’ve been dreaming of.

2. Join a Class
Some communities offer free drama and theater classes to the public, so you might want to look around to see if you qualify for one of these classes. However, if your community doesn’t do this then you may want to seek out other ways to learn. For instance, most colleges and universities will offer a wide variety of theater and drama courses, which may strike your fancy. Going with a community college will save you a lot of money and will allow you the motivation you need to stick with the hobby. Of course, these credits can even be used as an elective for a degree, or may even inspire you to pursue a degree in theater. You may actually be surprised by how many careers you can pursue with a degree in the dramatic arts. If you’re in high school or junior high school still you can easily join drama club or sign up for a class to help you enjoy the world of theater. Plus, any plays you participate in will look great on your college applications.

3. Local Plays
Part of loving the theater is getting to see plays whenever you get the chance. Of course, paying to get into a play can cost you a small fortune depending on the theater. Broadway and other big name theaters may not allow you to get more out of your love for theater. So, instead of shooting to go to famous productions, try to keep it local. More often than not, you can get into these plays for very little, which will help save you in the long run. A lot of the plays are performed through the community theater, so you’ll know whatever you pay for entrance is going to help the theater group move forward on their next production. High schools are also known for putting on plays that won’t cost you a fortune. Plus, when you pay to get into these productions you’ll be helping out a local school with their academic and arts programs. Overall, keeping it local will help you enjoy what your community has to offer while also giving back to your community.

4. Work in the Background
If you love plays, but aren’t exactly talented when it comes to performing, then you may find a great place in the background of the theater. There’s so many jobs to choose from that you’re sure to find something that strikes your fancy. From makeup, costumes, designing sets, working the lights and even directing, you will probably find a home away from home in the theater that won’t force you to be on the main stage. These jobs are a lot of work, but they’re also very rewarding. In fact, you may even be surprised to find you might be talented in one of the jobs. You don’t have to stick with one thing either, explore the world of theater! When your job is complete, you should gain free access to the play, which will allow you to admire your team’s hard work.

5. Try Acting Camp/Retreat
One of the best ways to really get into theatre is go to a camp or a retreat. This will allow you to dedicate time to the art of drama, so you won’t be distracted. It will also give you a chance to mingle with other thespians, which will help you learn even more about your talents and the art form. Of course, going to a camp will cost more than taking weekly lessons, but it will give you the opportunity you need to fully concentrate on your art. Many famous actors and actresses spent time at camps and retreats, which helped them find their voice an actor so they could make the films they do today. Not to mention, a camp or retreat could help you find the relaxation you’ve been hoping for. With a little research, you should uncover some of the best camps to go to, which will suit your needs substantially! Of course, these camps and retreats are just for budding actors, if you’re experienced you can enjoy a camp or retreat too.

6. Use the Net
When it comes to acting and theater, you can find a wide range of resources on the internet. From online libraries to streaming websites like Youtube. These resources will allow you to read plays, so you can learn about different styles and get an idea of what your acting abilities can encompass. Apart from that, you should be able to find acting courses on college or streaming websites that can help you learn new techniques while allowing to discover your talents. This is a great way to start up your interest in acting, so you can decide if you’d like to continue on with your studies. It will also give you a great place to watch a variety of the same play, so you see how different actors approached the part. This self-education could really make a difference in your performances.

7. Start A Club
Support is one of the best ways to improve your acting and to enjoy the theater. So, create your own little community by starting up a club. As a group, you can read lines for your favorite plays or even work on your improv for a bit of a fun. The group should be able to provide constructive criticism, which will help everyone become better at their art. The best thing about joining a club is you’ll be able to enjoy discounts on tickets to plays. You should be able to find lots of great coupons on social media websites to help your group experience a wide range of plays. You may even be able to get into lessons as a group at a discounted price. This is sure to help you save money and have more fun with your art.

8. Look for Scholarships
If you’d like to pursue an acting school or even take courses in the dramatic arts then you may want to look around for scholarships. There’s a lot available for high school students planning on making their way to a university in the next year or two. However, if you graduated some time ago, you can still find scholarships to help with your needs. The key is to know where to look, so try to uncover as much online as you possibly can. If you are in high school or college then you should be able to discuss this option with a guidance counselor. Counselors should have the resources to point you in the right direction with ease.

9. Write For Yourself
One of the big expenditures for an actor or actress hoping to do their ow production is paying to use someone else’s play or monologue. One way to combat this is to write your own monologue. This can really be a lot of fun for those trying to get more in touch with a character and to learn the ins and out of the process of creating a play. Once you’ve created a monologue then you will have something to practice with for auditions or to simply work on your characters. This won’t cost you a penny and will improve your acting abilities as well as your appreciation of writers, particularly those who came up with the classics.

10. Discount Plays
If you’re dying to get into a well-known play, then you don’t have to cut this option out just yet. Sure, Broadway plays and other high-scale theaters can be way out of the average price range, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never get to go. Believe it or not, but there are seasons that are slow for Broadway. So, if you’d like to get the Broadway experience then you should try to get tickets in January thru March. This is their off-season and thus they’d be able to offer tickets at a lower price. Other major theaters do the same thing, so make sure to call and ask when their off-season is, so you can prepare to enjoy the theater. Of course, you will also be able to find discounts on social media sites, which often cater to groups. This is perfect if you have a family or group of people who want to go to the theater. With any luck, you’ll be able to get your tickets for next to nothing, so you can move on to enjoy some great plays!

Being a thespian doesn’t have to be about shoveling money into your hobby or potential career. Instead, there’s lots of great ways to cut back on the spending while still enjoying everything that makes the theater great. So, don’t be afraid to give in a little to your thespian side, because there are ways to get around the high price that a passion for theater can bring.

Pregnancy can be a beautiful time filled with changes that you would have never expected. It can also be a time when shopping is all the more appealing, especially when it comes to looking for baby clothes. Sometimes, it’s hard to hold back, especially when you’re excited for baby to arrive. Of course, you will also have to do a bit of shopping for yourself, so you can stay as comfortable as possible while you wait for your little one to finish growing. There are a few ways to stretch your budget further while you move through your pregnancy, so put temptation to the side and check out these ten helpful tips.

1. Buy Slowly
A lot of people want to buy all of the baby and maternity things that they will need in one swooping shopping trip. This can be a major problem though. Not only will you end up spending a lot of money in one shopping trip, which could tack on the interest if you’re paying in credit, you’ll also end up spending more money as time passes. It’s guaranteed, you’re going to see more things that you need and want as time passes, which will mean you’re going to have more than enough before baby comes. In fact, your little one may even end up having clothes they will never wear because you overdid it. Instead of shopping like this, try buying one or two items every week or pay day. This will help you space out your purchases and will allow you to think about things you may actually need or want, so you don’t spontaneously buy. There are even some things you’ll want to get after the baby is born when you learn more about their needs.

2. Ask Medical Questions
It may be hard to step away from the excitement that you’re going to have a baby; however, it can be crucial to really open up a dialogue when it comes to the process of having your child. There’s going to be a lot of charges you’re going to face financially, so knowledge is the best way to defend yourself against bills that shouldn’t come your way. The first thing you should do is talk to your doctor. You’ll want to know about tests you may need or their concerns for you. You will also want to talk to your insurance company to see how much each birthing option will cost as well as emergency procedures in case something happens. This should allow you to easily know exactly how to begin your process, so you can put back money and put your mind to rest.

3. Research Breast Pumps
A breast pump can be one of the best things you can do for your body and your child. Sometimes, breast feeding can be painful or you simply can’t be everywhere your baby is. That’s where breast pumps come in handy. You can ease the pressure in your breast with them while also creating food that you can give to your childcare provider, use when your nipples are hurting, or if you’ve decided to have a night to yourself and drink alcohol or eat something spicy. Of course, a good pump will make the task of pumping milk a lot easier and more comfortable, so make sure you do some research before you choose which one you want to buy. With a little bit of searching, you may even be able to find coupons on rebates to help you get your chosen device for a pretty hefty discount, which will come in handy too.

4. Use the Library
When you’re expecting, there’s a whole lot to be learned, which may have you on the Buy Button of your favorite online book store. Rather than spending a small fortune on books that you may not get around to reading in full, you might want to check your local library out to see which resources they have to keep you busy and educated about your baby, yourself and the upcoming years of parenting. The library usually has long check out dates too, so if you can’t get to a book right away then you don’t have to stress. Even though you aren’t taking the book home with you, you can still take notes about important elements or remind yourself to check out the book again. If you’re not sure where to start in your hunt for literature, ask some friends, your parents or anyone who has ever had a baby and they should be willing to send you in the right direction.

5. Don’t Overdo Diapers
Before baby is expected, you may not want to buy any diapers. In fact, if you can hold off until your baby shower then you may want to skip the diaper purchases period. Usually people end up overwhelmed with diapers before it is all said and done. In fact, many couples will have too many of one type of diaper, as baby’s do grow quickly and you may find the newborn diapers won’t last as long as you expect. Luckily, you can take them into any store that sells your brand and exchange them for a large size as long as the package isn’t opened or damaged. With this factor working out in your favor, you should be ready to deal with the diaper needs of your bundle of joy when they arrive and you’ll probably be thankful you didn’t waste money on the diapers when you could have bought a totally cute outfit or toy.

6. Used Clothes
There’s a pretty good chance that if you’re expecting, you’re probably also outgrowing your pants pretty quickly. Buying brand new items can really be pricey though, especially if you’re trying to keep up with a fashionable wardrobe. The good news is, most maternity clothes aren’t used for very long, so when they hit the thrift store, they’re still in pretty good condition. So, you may want to consider shopping at any thrift or used store you find. If you have relatives or friends that are around your size then you may see if they have maternity clothes too. The same can be said for your baby. Your little one will outgrow clothing like it’s going out of style, so there’s no need to spend the big bucks on new items. If you can, shop around thrift stores, ask about hand-me-downs or even swap clothes with other mom’s. These clothes swapping clubs can come in handy if you have a wide variety of children in the group. As your child grows, you may not have to spend much of anything to keep them looking good, using this method.

7. Shop with Restraint
While you’re shopping for your little one, try to consider the necessities, rather than purchasing all of the cute items you see. This will help ensure you have what you need to make baby’s life easier. Once you’ve had your baby shower, then you may consider buying a cute outfit or two to satisfy your shopping urges. Generally, people tend to get most of what they need for their little one at a shower, which will allow you to know the wiggle room you have to work with. Of course, if you didn’t get much at the shower, then you’ll be grateful you didn’t spend too much on things you don’t exactly need. Also, keep in mind you’ll need to save for when the baby shower diaper supply finally runs low, because diapers disappear like crazy.

8. Sign Up For Newsletters
One of the best things you can do before you become a parent and long after the baby is born is to keep up with newsletters. You can sign up for so many that won’t cost you a dime. The downside is your email is going to be pretty full, but you’ll get all sorts of tips and savings ideas that will help you save more on your pregnancy as well as when the baby arrives. A good number of newsletters will also help you out when it comes to sending you coupons. These can be printed out, but some can even be used from the phone for convenience. There’s lots of great websites to find the newsletter, so you won’t have to look far. You can even look on your favorite brands website to see if they have anything to offer. If you’re not certain still, then ask for advice from other parents you may know.

9. Wait For Sales
Without a doubt, some of the ideas on your baby wish list aren’t going to be on the cheaper side of the spectrum. When it comes to these, it may be wise just to wait until a sale rolls along. Don’t worry, chances are there will be a few sales between the 9 months in which the baby will be growing. You should also surf the clearance rack whenever you get a chance, so you can see just what you can find there. With any luck, you will be able to find most of your list there, but sometimes this isn’t an option. Try to pay attention to when the baby store gets in new items though. This will help you know when the older models will be going on sale, so you can easily grab something you’ve had your eyes on. Online stores also offer a wide variety of sales all year long, so this may be a better option for you, especially if they offer free shipping.

10. Maternity Leave
One thing many women worry about when it comes to their pregnancy is maternity leave. Different companies handle this aspect in different ways, so make sure you know what your work place offers before you decide to go on maternity leave. Some companies will offer several weeks of paid leave and if that’s the case for you then certainly use that time to kick back and relax. However, if your company isn’t as generous with leave then you should know how much they will pay you and how much time you can get. If you’re only offered partial pay or a short maternity leave then it may be wise to ask your employer if you can do some work from home. This will allow you the rest you need as well as the bonding time with your baby, without forcing you to lose money.

Being pregnant can be scary if you’re looking at the financial aspect of everything. There are several ways to get around the high price of everything though. With a little shopper savvy and a whole lot of self-control over adorable items, you should be saving up money for the items you need without sacrificing style or happiness.

Summer romance is one of the most infamous, so there’s no wonder why so many are willing to pay the high price of going on a summer date to impress their special someone. The summer months are filled with lots of fun to be had that has nothing to do with spending an arm and a leg. This summer, you’ll be able to whisk your special someone off of their feet, without paying the high price for your love. With these ten date suggestions, you should bet up for a whole season of fun in the sun with the one you love the most.

1. Fair
Without a doubt, the summer time is filled with fairs and carnivals that will allow you to impress your date without having to splurge. Fairs are a great place to get to know someone or improve your relationship with someone you already know. There’s usually a little something for everyone when it comes to the fair, which is sure to make your date a hit from the start. Sure, you can probably spend a fortune at a fair, but if you’re careful you can find ways to be frugal so you can enjoy your time with your date while keeping your bank account happy. For instance, if there’s rides you may want to buy a pass rather than pay for each individual one. When it comes to buying good, you might consider choosing something the two of you can share. Also, games can really leave you in a financial bind, so make sure you know your limits no matter how much you want the stuffed animal prize.

2. Sports
Being active with a date can be one of the best ways to bond with one another while having some fun. Luckily, summer has a lot of sports to offer, so you won’t have to look too far. You probably won’t even have to pay anything extra, apart from the equipment you’ll need. One great game to play is volleyball, especially if you live by the beach. This will allow you to soak up some sun by the water while showing off your athletic abilities. Perhaps, after a quick game of volleyball you can always hit the tide and swim for a bit. Basketball is another all season sport that you can play for free at most parks, so bring a ball and get ready to have some fun. Tennis may not have as many options, but you should be able to find a place to play even if you have to pay a small fee. If you want to have a cuter date, then consider mini-golf. Of course, there are always extreme sports like rock climbing.

3. Farmer’s Market
One sweet and romantic way to whisk your partner off their feet is to spend a bit of time at the farmer’s market for a date. While you’re there, you will be able to choose some all natural produce, homemade breads and jams and even some stunning flowers. This is sure to get you in on the right foot with the person you adore. The best thing about having a date at the farmer’s market is you can always take the items you buy home to whip up something tasty to eat in order to extend the date. Spending time at the farmer’s market will show your local responsibility too, which is a good attribute to have. Plus, it will give you a chance to sample new forms of honey, jams, olive oils and anything else that can be found there. Sometimes, you may even run into art that is the perfect gift for your date. So, when it comes to summer time dating, don’t disregard this simple and fun shopping session.

4. Star Gazing
Summer nights are the best. The weather tends to cool down a bit, but it still isn’t too cold, which makes it the perfect time to go outside and enjoy some star gazing. If you have a telescope, then you may want to pull it out and let your date see all of the beauty that the universe has to offer. If you don’t know where to look or what to look for, there’s lots of online guides that can point you in the right direction even if you’re not keen on astrology. Of course, if you don’t have a telescope then you still don’t have to fret. It’s just as romantic to lay a blanket on the ground and watch the sky. If you can find a place outside of the city, then you’re good to go. Perhaps, see who can find a shooting star the fastest, or who can spot more constellations. As long as you’re having a good time and it sparks conversation then your date is sure to be a hit.

5. Picnic
Nothing says a quaint date quite like a picnic. This is perfect for cooler days, but as long as you pack food based around the weather you should be good to go. Try to make a homemade meal if you can, complete with a sensual dessert and ice cold beverage. Of course, location may be everything when it comes to this date. Before you set down your blanket, try to find a shaded area and look around to make sure there’s not an army of ants headed in your direction. You can even take this date up a notch if the day is a bit windy by bringing along a kite. This can help bring you closer to your date, while allowing you to watch a beautiful kite soar through the deep blue sky.

6. Beer Festivals
Where there is summer time, somewhere there is also a beer festival. These festivals are a great place to take a date as they will allow you to enjoy a nice beverage while hanging out together. Generally, beer festivals allow you to sample a wide variety of drinks, so you can find new things that you love as well as enjoy some old favorites. The best thing about beer festivals is they also allow you to enjoy a wide selection of foods and, usually, some good music. When it comes to beer festivals, you typically get to leave with some swag too, which will make it all worth the price. While enjoying the setting you should be able to feel comfortable with your date, which should lead to a follow up date in no time!

7. Movie Night
If you love the classic dates then having a movie night can be the right way to go. If you plan accordingly, you should be able to get a good deal at the theater for an early bird or twilight special, which will make the date all the more affordable. You may also want to consider going to a drive thru, which tends to offer double features that cost the same as one movie at the local theater. Of course, when you consider snacks for both of these locations, you will probably already spend a small fortune. Another option is to have a movie night at your home. You can create a great setting in the home or come up with your very own drive-in inspired movie night. This will allow you to make homemade and healthier snacks which should satisfy you both. You can also pause the movie whenever a bathroom break is needed, which is also a plus.

8. Hang Out By the Water
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as water in the hot summer days. So, maybe you should plan to have your date near a body of water. The ocean is a great place to tan, play games, build sandcastles, surf, swim and so much more, which should keep your date busy for hours on end. The lake is another great option with swimming, tubing, taking out the boat, or simply casting a line and talking for a little while. If you don’t have a lake or ocean near by then consider a pond for a picnic or finishing, a river for kayaking or a stream to simply get your feet wet. The pool is always a great option too, may it be in your backyard or on city property. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to keep cool while having fun with your date.

9. Walk
Walking is a great way to get in some exercise while also helping your mind and body relax, which is why it makes such a great date. It doesn’t matter if you’re walking in the morning, afternoon, evening or at night, you should be able to enjoy yourself without spending a whole lot of money. Try to find a trail in a park or in rougher terrain that you can take to get closer to Mother Nature. This should help spark some conversations, while allowing the two of you to enjoy a lovely setting. Another option is to take a stroll through the city. Let the smells surround you while you talk about your backgrounds. If you’re from the city this can be a pretty peaceful setting, which is sure to help you feel less stressed out. No matter where you choose to talk, you’ll be able to slow down a bit and enjoy one another’s company. This alone could help you bond more.

10. Couple’s Massage
If you’ve been with your significant other sometime and you want to show them how much you appreciate them, then you might want to book a couple’s massage as a surprise date. Don’t fret, this can cost a whole lot less than you think. Before you choose where or who to hire to do your massage, make sure you look at reviews and prices. If the price still feels too far of a reach for you then bring up plan B, websites like Groupon. Before you know it, you should be able to find a deal that will help you pay for your massage without worry. Another option is to hire a student who is just perfecting their technique. Students usually charge less because they need the practice and don’t have the proper certifications yet. While you get your massage, the two of you should love relaxing together while you get rid of some of life’s tension.

Taking your special someone out on a date doesn’t have to be a cause for a headache when it comes to planning on a budget. There’s a lot of great ways you can skip the high price of a summer date, which will help you and your date feel more at ease with each other. With these ten date ideas, you should be well on your way to enjoying your partner’s company, which should make you both feel great about the hot months.

It’s hard to see your bundle of joy grow, but sooner or later you’re going to have to transform your baby’s nursery into a toddler friendly bedroom. This doesn’t have to cost a small fortune though, so don’t let the change leave your hurting for money. There’s lots of ways you can quickly and frugally transform a nursery into a room worthy of your little one’s growing personality. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty, so you can turn your little one’s room around. Between DIY tips and a few cheap decorative ideas, you’ll be able to enjoy your little one’s new room as much as your child does.

1. Conversion Furniture
If you ended up buying a convertible crib when your baby was born, then you’re already on the right track to successfully transforming your room. Convertible cribs can go from a crib to a toddler bed in no time flat, which is the best way to start your child out on their toddler friendly room. Of course, if you didn’t choose to buy this type of crib, then you still have options that don’t involve you spending a fortune on a temporary bed. For instance, you can buy a regular sized bed and add a rail to the side of it to help your child stay in place. If you don’t want to use a railing, then a pool noodle is equally as functional. This may even help your child adjust to a bigger bed faster, while bringing confidence to your little one too.

2. Wall Protection
Toddlers love to draw on everything under the sun, especially when it comes to walls. If you don’t mind scrubbing the walls down every few days, then you should be okay to have plain walls in your toddler’s room. However, if you want to save some of your precious time then you may want to consider a few options. One is the miracle that is chalk board paint. You can paint the bottom half of the wall or the whole thing if you want. This will help your child show off their creative side, without forcing you to do extra chores. Apart from that, you could also use paper rolls to create a fun place for the kids to show off their creative side. You can even cut out some of the drawings to save for later. Paper rolls don’t cost an arm and a leg, which should help with the renovation. Not to mention, if you’re renting this can be a huge money saver as you won’t have to worry about painting when you move.

3. Solid Colors
Toddlers can be pretty fickle, just like the rest of us. Their interests today may be totally different tomorrow, which is why you may not want to stick with any themes that can’t be adapted to suit further interests. One way to do this is to simply use solid colors. You can paint their room a couple of different colors to suit their interests, but make sure the colors are subtle and won’t be a part of a tantrum next week. You may even want to keep up with this policy for bedding too. This will help prevent you from spending a small fortune on themed items that may not be in with your little one in just a few days. You can always add posters or buy cheap items like pillow cases to suit the flavor of the week.

4. Utilize Bins
When it comes to keeping organized with toddlers, bins can be your best friend. These items are durable, stackable and can be put in a wide variety of places to help keep the room in order without taking up a whole lot of space. Storage bins can be used for just about everything too. One great way to start teaching your child to clean up their room and stay organized is to color coat your child’s bin. You can even place pictures on the bins to help your child understand which toys go where. Another great use for bins is for clothing and other toddler supplies. These can go in the top of the closet and can be moved down when you want to teach your child how to dress themselves.

5. Repurpose Furniture
Your baby furniture doesn’t have to go to waste or in storage when your child is finished with it. There’s a lot great things you can do with your furniture. For starters, you can easily turn the changing table into a storage area for your child’s clothes, toys and other supplies. You may want to consider painting it to suit your child’s new room, but make sure to follow through with a proper finish so you can reuse it again and again. The crib is another great thing you can refurbish to suit your needs. A cozy child’s chair is one idea for the old bed. You can follow a classic day bed design to make the new chair look adorable and inviting. Another great option is turning the crib into a desk. This could offer plenty of space for your child to get creative and will even help them to start on homework and other assignments as they grow. If you really feel like getting creative, then you can use chalk board paint as a finish for the room.

6. Create a Reading Nook
Start your child out on the right track by encouraging them to read. This is easily done if you whip up a fun reading nook for your child. This can easily be based on your child’s interests. One of the best things you can do is create a cozy place to sit. May it be a toddler sized chair or a fun tent. Once you have the comfortable place to sit and some toddler friendly lighting, you may want to consider adding images of some of their favorite characters to help inspire them to feel imaginative as they read their stories or you read to them. Last but not least, you may want to add in a simple, but secure shelf to allow your child to store books and other cute reading buddies like their stuffed animals.

7. Consider a Rug
Let’s face it, toddlers spill things and often end up getting paint, playdough and markers all over the floor. One of the best ways to cope with the tornado that is the toddler is to use a rug or several. This will help soak up some of the spills while making it a bit easier to clean up after your walking disaster. Of course, a rug will also make your child’s room a lot more comfortable, especially if you have a child that likes to roll around or crawl often. You don’t need to spend a small fortune on a rug though as it most likely won’t make it through the toddler years. You can also make your own DIY rug to add even more charm to the room. This shouldn’t cost much at all and will add a fun project that will show your toddler how much you care.

8. Wall Decals
One of the best things about having a child with numerous interests is you can easily decorate for them without spending a small fortune. Wall decals simply peel on and off of the wall, so you can easily adapt to your child’s changing tastes. Wall decals leave less damage on a wall then posters and other decorative items, which is perfect if you are renting your home or apartment. Best of all, these items don’t cost a small fortune so you won’t have to feel bad when your toddler gets bored of a cartoon or theme. Of course, before you buy too many wall decals, you may want to make sure they stick to your wall as many stickers won’t. They tend to stick to any window or flat surface though, so you can always use them on closets, mirrors and so on.

9. Kids Art
You can really go crazy when it comes to decorating your child’s room in an assortment of décor. However, one of the best things you can do is use your own child’s art to decorate the room. You can easily add their favorite drawings to a frame and place them on the wall to add a special touch to the room. If your child is interested in playdough, then you can dry out the creations and place them on display. Other crafts are easy to display too, which will help your child feel a sense of pride over their artistic abilities, which can encourage self-expression as well as help them improve on motor functions.

10. Toys
One of the easiest ways to enjoy a cute room is to decorate it with toys. You can place blocks on a shelf as well as trains and other adorable toys your child plays with or grew out of. Stuffed animals are a great way to decorate and will help your child have a lot more fun while offering soft items to cuddle with during nap time or reading hour. Another great thing to consider is adding your child’s old toys to shelves and other high up places. This will help preserve the memory of your child’s younger years while allowing your child to grow in a room that is all about them.

Transforming your child’s room from a nursery to a toddler friendly room doesn’t have to be as tough or expensive as you make it out to be. With these ten tips, you should be able to find the perfect look for your little one’s space, so they can feel special and loved. Now, all you have to do is get over the fact that your baby is quickly growing.

With Memorial Day over, your children are probably out of school or finishing up their last few days. If you work or attend school, then this may mean you’re going to need to find alternative care for your little ones. This can be one of the most stressful aspects of summer vacation. Day care can be incredibly expensive and you don’t want to send your child to just any facility. Luckily, there are a few ways you can get someone to take care of your child without having to stress out over the finances. So, don’t let finding a child care provider ruin your summer fun, as these tips should shorten the search while saving you a bit of money.

1. Work Around Activities
When it comes to the summer time, there’s a world of options to choose from for activities. Most schools and colleges will host activities and classes for students to partake in that can cost nothing to very little. You will also have day camps, play dates, vacation Bible school (or other religious camps and classes) and the library program to keep your child busy. With so much fun for your child to be had, you may not have to fund someone to babysit. Try to plan activities around your work hours to help save money. If you can sign your child up for activities in one location for an entire day, then you’ll be all set to save money while ensuring your child is in a safe environment. Even if you can’t get your child into activities at one location then perhaps you can get a friend or relative to pick your child up and drop them off at the next activity. You may even be able to get your boss to allow you to use drop off times instead of your lunch and breaks. Either way, your kids’ minds will be stimulated and you’ll be able to keep even more in your bank account.

2. Be Flexible
If your work lets you juggle around your hours, then make sure to utilize this during your kids’ time off of school. For instance, if you can work around the schedule of a friend or relative then this may be your best bet. You can swap off watching the kids without anyone having to miss a single day of work, or forcing two families to pay for a babysitter or daycare fees. The same can be done with your spouse. If you can go from day shift to night shift or vice versa then choose the opposite schedule of your spouse. It may be a tough summer to get through, but you won’t feel financially burdened by daycare or babysitter prices, nor will you have to worry about your child being in the care of strangers.

3. Work from Home
Another aspect of being flexible that can come in handy during the summer months is working from home. If you can concentrate at home with the kids around you and your boss doesn’t mind, then take the summer to work at home. This will give you more time to bond with the kids, while allowing you to get work finished in a timely manner. Some people tend to work better at home anyway, so you may be doing yourself a favor by staying with the children, rather than spending the summer in a stark office environment. This will also offer you more flexibility for activities, which could help your children stay on track in school. Not to mention, you won’t have to spend extra money on your lunch, since you’ll already be home to enjoy a healthier, home cooked meal.

4. Share a Sitter
If a friend, family or neighbor is also looking for a sitter then you may be in luck. Babysitters who charge by the hour should be okay with taking on a few kids at once, as long as they aren’t too young and you don’t go over the legal limit. This should allow you and the other family to split the cost of the sitter, so you don’t have to spend a boatload out of every payday. Apart from saving your money, this will also give the children playmates throughout the summer that aren’t just their siblings. This may promote less sibling fighting and will allow children to socialize. Not to mention, if you and the person you’re sharing the sitter with do not have the same days off, then you won’t have to pay a babysitter for those days. Just make sure you trust the person enough to leave your children with as well as to follow through on their financial obligation to the agreement.

5. Non-Profit Daycares
When it comes to searching for the right daycare for your child, you may have a few jaw-dropping moments when you see the price estimate for care. It’s expensive to have even one child in daycare, so imagine how bad it will be with multiple. Luckily, there are some non-profit daycares out there that can really help you out with your plight. Churches are one of the first places to turn to when it comes to daycare. It doesn’t matter your religion, if you attend some sort of service then chances are they will run some form of childcare or will be able to point you in the right direction. If a church isn’t an option for you then look around for youth groups in the area. The YMCA normally hosts programs for kids, which could help you out, big time. However, you may have to prove you are low income to be considered for free childcare. You may even qualify for just a reduction of price, but make sure to ask before you assume you don’t qualify. Sometimes these programs fill up fast though, so you may have to juggle between the programs and a sitter to help you get through the summer without having to pay for full time care.

6. Hire a Student
Sometimes, it’s practically impossible to get around hiring a sitter. You don’t have to pay a fortune for one though. In fact, if you hire a student you should be able to pay a lower wage without having to stress. Generally, students who are planning on becoming teachers or entering the child development field are great candidates for sitters. They will get the experience they need with children, while you can go to work without having to pass over your entire paycheck to a childcare provider. You should also perform a thorough interview for anyone you’re considering hiring though. Background checks, first aid and CPR training as well as basic skills should be included before you leave anyone with your children. You may even consider a backup plan by placing nanny cams in the home, just to make sure your children are secure. With all of this in place, you will still save money and have peace of mind that your kids are being cared for.

7. Consider an Au Pair
People have been using
Au Pairs for centuries now. Today’s programs are usually developed to help young adults experience life abroad. So, if you have a spare room and are looking for a sitter then you may want to check out this program. Most au pairs are trained before they are allowed to enter the work force in this career, so you don’t have to stress about leaving your child with someone that doesn’t know what they’re doing. Also, most au pairs will work for room and board as well as an allowance to help them enjoy the sights when they have time off. Having an au pair can be a great way for your children to experience other cultures too. In fact, some kids even pick up languages from their au pairs, which will set your child off on the right foot.

8. Ask Your Child’s Inner Circle
If you don’t want to end up having to hire a sitter that you don’t know or trust, then you may want to ask your child’s inner circle. Sometimes, parents will allow you to leave your child with them for a playdate while you’re at work. If you can do this each day you’re working, then you shouldn’t have to worry about babysitters or whatnot. Of course, you may want to send money with your child to help pay for food and activities that the family may do while your child is in their care. You should also offer to do the same for their children, so that the other families can enjoy date night or simply time to relax away from children. By using the community to help with your child you should save some money while allowing your kids to socialize with their friends even when they’re not in school.

9. Family
Usually, family is one of the most reliable places to go when you need a bit of help with childcare. Most grandparents will leap at the chance to hang out with their grandkids, especially if they are retired. You should also check to make sure your schedules don’t conflict during the week though, so you will know your children won’t be imposing on your parents or other family members. Again, you may also want to send your child with money to help with the financial aspects of their care, even if your parents tell you not to. Your kids will have a blast hanging out with grandparents and you won’t have to spend your work hours stressing out about a stranger watching your kids. It’s a win-win situation.

10. Tax Credits
Even if you do end up registering your child in a daycare or another private facility, you may be able to get back some of the money you spent on childcare. Make sure you hold on to all of your receipts for the services, as you may qualify for a tax credit in this regard. Of course, be very careful before you apply for the credit, as you should always make sure you qualify before you put anything on your tax returns. A good accountant or tax advisor should be able to steer you in the right direction, but you can always do the research yourself. This should help take part of the burden off of your childcare payments, as you’ll know some of it should be coming back to you at the end of the year. Apart from that, when you do get money back at the beginning of next year, you should consider putting it away so that you can use it to help pay for next summer’s child care.

Making sure your kids are safe, happy and healthy is always a top priority, but the summer vacation period can make it nerve wracking to do this. Luckily, there are several solutions to the childcare problem that arises every time your children are out of school. Hopefully, these ten tips should lead to safe and affordable childcare, so you can be more at ease while your children enjoy their vacation from the classroom.

June has finally arrived, which means it’s time to make the transition from spring to summer. Although the summer time can be one of the most expensive periods of the year, there’s still plenty of ways you can enjoy yourself and upkeep your household without spending a fortune. June is privy to lots of amazing deals that should have the whole household rejoicing over the sunny month. With temperatures rising, you won’t want to miss out on some of these deals! So, gather up your favorite shopping buddies and head to the store with these ten money savers for the month of June fresh on your mind.

1. Laptops
It may seem like school just closed its doors for summer break, but that doesn’t mean that back to school deals aren’t already rolling out. Sure, you probably won’t find your typical school supplies on sale just yet, but the one thing you will find is laptops. In fact, June is one of the top two times in the year to buy a laptop. This can be great for keeping kids entertained and educated over the long summer break. However, if you have student going off to college then now may be the best time to invest in a laptop. A new laptop could help get your college student through college essays and late night study sessions without forcing them to spend every waking hour in the library. Prices should be so low that you may even be able to afford the newest items on the market. Of course, make sure you know what you’re looking for in a laptop before you commit to buying too little or not enough.

2. Free Food
If you love going out to eat, then June is one of the best months to do so. With Father’s Day coming up, you should be able to find many restaurants are giving away freebies for your dad or your spouse. You may have to call around to ask about deals, but if you find one, you’re sure to make the dad in your life smile. The Melting Pot, for instance, is offering complimentary beers for dad as well as endless fondue entrees. If dad has a sweet tooth, then head on over to TCBY to grab an ice cream cone at no price to dad. Of course, the month of June isn’t all about Father’s Day fun. In fact, June 3 is National Donut Day, which everyone can get on board for. Many of your favorite chain and local donut shops will offer a free donut or other treat to guests who stop by on this special day.

3. Outdoor Recreation
Spending time outdoors is perfect in the month of June, so you’ll really be in luck this month. Normally, things don’t go on sale when they are in season, but June holds a lot of exceptions to the rule. For instance, June hosts National Boating and Fishing week, which could bring a lot of fun to the whole family. Many places will offer free fishing days, which will help you plan out a mini vacation that won’t cost a fortune. You may even be able to save on fishing supplies, boat rentals and boating lessons during this week. Apart from the week dedicated to hanging out by the water, June also hosts Get Outdoors Day. Thus, you should be able to find free activities for the whole family. You might also be able to find amazing sales on sports, camping and other recreational products that will make the whole family much happier. Plus, this is a great time to teach your children how important it is to spend time outside and to take care of Mother Nature.

4. Tools
Another great thing that June brings is great deals on tools. Father’s Day falls in the middle of June, so you should see deals popping up even in the first week of the month. This can be a great time to stock up on dad’s favorite tools or even supplies you need for around the house. You could even buy ahead for Christmas or birthday gifts, if you know someone in your inner circle who loves to work with their hands. Of course, the deals before Father’s Day are going to be great, but if you can hold your horses for a little while many items will go on clearance. These are usually going to be the older models in the store, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the cheap prices and get everything you need to either make your home run efficiently or help make someone’s day special.

5. Air Travel
You may feel like you will never find a good deal on airfare in the month of June. Although prices have slightly risen and it is always best to plan trips months in advance, you can still find great deals on air travel if you look hard enough. In fact, this June has shown some of the cheapest prices in comparison to the last few years, so there is some hope when it comes to your travel plans. Of course, if you do want to book a flight then you can really save big on trips to Florida. This can be amazing if you’re planning on getting away to the many amusement parks or attractions, so if you haven’t set your vacation in stone then this is a pretty awesome opportunity. Packaged Deals will also save you some money too, so if you want to get all of your planning in at once then look for a packaged deal to help you save time and maximize your budget.

6. Lingerie
The month of June is known for one major sale that many people anticipate. That is, the Victoria Secret Semi Annual Sale. This sale will help you fill your wardrobe with bras and panties, so you won’t have to worry about shopping when the prices are outrageous. Most people tend to love to shop this sale because it really does take a huge portion off the original price. Apart from this sale, you will also be able to find some huge discounts from stores that are trying to compete with the big sale. So, make sure you shop around so you can find just what you’re looking for. Don’t forget, June is one of the prime times for weddings, so if you have bridal parties to go to, lingerie is usually a cheap price that will make everyone happy.

7. Food
There’s lots of delicious food to be had in the month of June too, so you’ll save plenty here. For starters. June is National Dairy Month, which means you’re going to find some great deals on milk, cheese, yoghurts and ice cream. This month may be a wise time to stock up on ice cream, if you have a big freezer, so you will be set to keep everyone cool during the hot months. Since barbecue season is just kicking off, you should be able to get some great deals on BBQ packages, especially the days following Memorial Day. This month has a lot of delicious produce to offer too. You’ll be set for family gatherings with melons like cantaloupes and watermelons on sale. Berries like raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and strawberries will also be on sale, which is just in time to add to your delicious lemonades and infused waters. Another great group is stone fruits including apricots, peaches and nectarines, which make great snacks. Finally, corn will be on sale, which is the perfect summer time staple. You can also enjoy vegetables like squash, zucchini, green beans, lettuce, tomatoes and so much more.

8. Movie Tickets
Blockbuster season is upon us, which will allow you to have some fun with the whole family. Of course, the price of the movie theater can be a bit of a bummer, especially if you’re buying for the whole family. Luckily, there’s some blockbuster sized deals at the theater this summer too. Usually, the theater will offer cheaper prices on weekdays that don’t bring in a lot of money. For instance, you may find a half off Tuesday or a discounted Thursday at your theater. You will save even more if you end up going earlier in the day. Some theaters offer an early bird special while others offer twilight hours that save you a bundle. Apart from discounted days for you, there are also days when kids get to watch a movie for free. This can really come in handy during boring days, and will help keep the kids cool and having fun during the long summer break.

9. Gaming Console
With summer break comes bored children. Luckily, this summer you will be able to find some awesome deals on gaming consoles. In fact, recently Xbox announced that it would finally be releasing a console that is much cheaper. Of course, this console won’t come with the Kinect in it, but you can always buy that for later on. Playstation 4 is also offering some deals on their latest consoles, so now may be a great time to upgrade. Make sure you keep an eye out for deals on these item though and don’t commit until you shop around. If you’re not interested in a new console, then you can always enjoy savings on a used console too. Since the new consoles will decrease in price, so will the older models, which will make them an even sweeter deal.

10. Home Goods
Since it is still wedding season and a whole new bunch of high school and college graduates will be entering the real world, you will still be able to fund some amazing deals on home goods. This includes everything from dinnerware sets to furniture. These items are perfect for those looking to start off right in life and won’t leave you hurting for money after your shopping spree. Not to mention, these items make great gifts for anyone who will be attending a bridal shower. Your graduation gift will also take it up a notch when you shop these deals, so make sure you grab the grad in your life something that they will actually be able to utilize.

Shopping in June will bring plenty of joy for you and the whole household. These ten shopping suggestions will allow you to enjoy your late spring and early summer fun, which is sure to set the mood for the rest of the season. Now, you can find everything you need for a great time without breaking the bank or a sweat.