Four Ways to Summer Savings with Kids

The 2023-2024 school year concludes around the country over the next couple of weeks, but inflation is still inflating, rent still rising, and grocery still ain’t cheap. As someone who enjoys being outside in summer, those restaurant bills tend to slowly creep up, and most times it is purely convenience that caused this. Here are six ways to save money, even with the kids being at home all day.

1. Set a schedule.

   I know some student might have summer school, and other might be waiting on camps to start, but regardless of age, a set weekly schedule can alleviate some of the problems that we adults may run into. For example, there will still be a certain time that everyone in my house has to be up as well as when I will be shutting down the house for the day. Keeping a consistent schedule will let everyone know my expectations and will stop me from having me yelling.

2. At-home summer learning

   Many students experience the “summer slide”, meaning that students will lose some of the achievement gains that experienced during the school-year. Implementing little to no-cost activities at home can help students retain their achievement and may contribute to more gains. I suggest keeping it grouping activities around school subjects. This can also help you structure screen time, and include a quiet time/nap.

   1. Example schedule:

      1. Monday: Science/Math with 30 minutes of reading

      2. Tuesday: Arts/Robotics/Building activities with 30 minutes of reading

      3. Wednesday: Science/Math with 30 minutes of reading

      4. Thursday: Writing and Reading Day

      5. Friday: Physical Activity and Mindfulness

3. Give a weekly menu

   The cafeteria ladies were always on to something with that pre-published menu. I could tell you the days I knew I would eat school lunch, versus the days I needed to get some extra snacks from home. Shoot, even as a professional with no school schedule, I still set a menu for myself because it lessen the decision fatigue I experience. Give those children similar lunch times from school and you will not have to hear the headache of I’m always hungry or when will the next meal be ready.

4. Stick to a budget, for everyone

   Budget is not a bad word. Actually, budget is the saving word, and the summer is the best time to ensure that you stick to one. Start small, like a week at a time. That way you do not spend money haphazardly and then are asking yourself where did everything go at the end of the month. Implementing smaller trips or treats that require building up to can also delay instant gratification for kids and inadvertently teach them how to budget for their time, efforts and money. Be transparent with your kids. Include them in the planning (within reason).

I won’t promise that everything will be perfect this summer, but preparing for fluctuation in bills and time with your kids will save you some coin and sanity in the long run!

Happy Summer Break!