With many children home from school for the summer, it takes a bit of creativity to find budget-friendly activities to keep them busy. If you’re one of the lucky ones with your own pool, then you’ve got one of the best ways to entertain the children right in your own yard. Of course, you’re also bound to be a popular house for the other kids in the neighborhood, so you’ll need to have extra snacks and drinks around. Instead of bearing the cost all by yourself, you can do what many others do and have the other parents chip in for the refreshments. Most are happy to do it since so much of the activity is taking place at your home.

 Besides all of the yard games that can be played, you can also treat the kids to a special movie day at home. You can have them pick out one of their favorite movies, make some fresh popcorn and settle in for some good family entertainment. Movie days are perfect for rainy days as well as for days when everyone needs a break from the heat. Other days you can also get out and explore some of the local parks and museums if they’re some in your area. Many of these activites are free or very inexpensive. The summer days will pass rapidly, so have fun enjoying your time with family.