Retailers want you to believe that the toys under the Christmas tree should be large and expensive. But if you've ever seen a kid more excited about the box a gift came in than the toy itself, you know that sometimes the cheaper, smaller gifts are the favorites. Plus, a few less expensive gifts can … [Read more...] about 10+ cool, inexpensive gifts for kids
Kids
Free ‘holiday house’ kit for kids from Lowe’s
Looking for something to keep the kids occupied over the holidays? Register online for Lowe's FREE "Holiday House Kit" — a graham cracker creation that reinvents the traditional gingerbread house. Complete with all the trimmings to build and decorate an edible holiday house, the kit has four designs … [Read more...] about Free ‘holiday house’ kit for kids from Lowe’s
How to be a minimalist parent with maximum happiness — for everyone
Having kids is wonderful (if that’s what you want). I am biased, though. I’m the mother of two young children (ages 5 and 1), who are hilarious, obnoxious, ridiculous, perfect little beings. One of the things people will always (and truthfully) tell you is — kids are expensive. And, I get that. … [Read more...] about How to be a minimalist parent with maximum happiness — for everyone
Where older kids ski free
Virtually every ski area in the land offers free skiing for youngsters to age 5 or 6, but only a handful extend free skiing to older offspring. In many cases, children also stay free when bunking with their parents. This is, of course, of significance to families with youngsters in that … [Read more...] about Where older kids ski free
Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween is one of those times of year in which we can all revert to being kids. We dress up and enjoy a little extra candy and parties. Planning a Halloween party can be so much fun, and it's even more fun when you throw a Halloween party on the cheap. Choose one of these Halloween party ideas … [Read more...] about Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween movie night ideas
Halloween is slowly creeping up on us, but the day isn’t all about trick-or-treating. It’s also about watching some great Halloween movies that make us laugh with the kids or keep us up all night hiding in horror under the covers. Here's what's ahead: Scary (or fun) Halloween … [Read more...] about Halloween movie night ideas
Free doughnut at Krispy Kreme on Halloween
Grab your goblins and ghouls and head to Krispy sKreme this Halloween season. They've got a special limited edition Halloween themed dozen that will be the perfect complement to any Halloween party you throw or attend, and they have a couple of doughnut deals this month! Keep reading for … [Read more...] about Free doughnut at Krispy Kreme on Halloween
A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
With more than 41 million potential trick-or-treaters knocking on 120 million doors, Halloween can become one of our most expensive holidays. But even if you don't want to spend a lot, there is no need to turn off the lights and pretend you aren’t home or try to persuade your kids that sweets are … [Read more...] about A complete guide to celebrating Halloween on the cheap
6 great (and cheap) 1st birthday gift ideas
When you have a kid, the cost of birthday party gifts can quickly add up. There’s no reason, however, that you have to spend a lot of money on birthday presents. Remember that old adage about how "it’s the thought that counts?" This is especially true for first birthday party presents, as the … [Read more...] about 6 great (and cheap) 1st birthday gift ideas
Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
As schools try to balance their budgets while keeping up with always-increasing expenses, they are looking more to families and parent-teacher organizations to help with school supplies, field trips and other programs. Doing a little can sometimes go a long way. Below are some funding ideas that you … [Read more...] about Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
This post is by Jennifer Saranow Schultz at Hint Mama. The cost of little kids’ activity classes can quickly add up. Just one semester of music class can run more than $200. Add in swimming, gymnastics, Gymboree, dance, sports and art classes and you could be renting a small … [Read more...] about 7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
30% off Eat at Home meal plan service before Aug. 31
Have you ever wanted to try meal planning but you just don't know where to start, or you've given up because you don't have the time to figure out a good meal plan on your own? Meal planning saves a ton of money compared to eating out, but it can be tough to get started. Right now, Eat … [Read more...] about 30% off Eat at Home meal plan service before Aug. 31
Summer Movie Fun Series at Harkins Theatres offers discounted kids’ flicks
Going to the movies during the summer will always be the perfect pairing, especially for families. It's a fun way to escape the heat and enjoy an action-packed or comical adventure for a few hours. And Harkins Theatres' Summer Movie Fun Series lets frugal families enjoy six weeks of kids' … [Read more...] about Summer Movie Fun Series at Harkins Theatres offers discounted kids’ flicks
5 low-cost St. Patrick’s Day activities for kids
With its emphasis on drinking and debauchery, St. Patrick’s Day can seem like a holiday more suited to adults than little ones. But these fun activities can make being Irish (or pretending to be!) a family affair. 1. Dye food green This is an easy one – simply add a few drops of green food … [Read more...] about 5 low-cost St. Patrick’s Day activities for kids
Kids’ crafts: Make a rubber band-powered boat
I remembered learning how to make a rubber band-powered boat out of a Styrofoam plate when I was young, and just knew it would make for some thrifty fun at home. This project was a hit at my house. Kids making their own toys -- what's not to love? It's frugal and it keeps the kids busy when you most … [Read more...] about Kids’ crafts: Make a rubber band-powered boat