Inexpensive ideas to entertain an eleven year old over the summer?

Question

I'm not really sure what I could do with her during the day, especially when it's hot.

We're in a "drought/conserve water" situation, so sprinklers on isn't the greatest idea.

I've got...the zoo, hiking, and free movies in the morning at the movie theater. Anything else that will get us out of the house but won't kill the wallet?

Answer 1

Picnics are always fun, maybe you could invite some of her friends? Really, having friends with her in any situation is usually a good way to keep an 11 year old occupied. If you can't reach any friends, try doing some mother (father?)/daughter activities, like riding bikes together, hiking, flying a kite, teaching her one of your hobbies, etc.

Museums are also great, especially if they are optional-donation. Then you can pay what you are able, and still have a fun [air-conditioned] day.

Libraries are fun too. Some have begun to have movie showings and public video game systems, as well as good old books, if she likes to read.

Hope these help!

Answer 2

Bring her to the local pool. Have some of her friends over so she could have someone to hang out with. Drink a couple Cokes and get a discount at Six Flags. Take her to get her nails done! There is many things to do!

Answer 3

Libraries often have a story hour.  Also good to just check out books and stimulate her desire to learn.

Why get out of the house?  Teach her how to bake muffins, crochet a scarf, sew something, do a paint-by-number.  Do some gardening outside!  Pull weeds, plant some flowers, water the flowers every morning.  Responsibilities make a child feel important and build their confidence and self-worth.  Let her help you plan the dinner menu and prepare the meal.

Answer 4

Well, if you are looking for something that you can both do together, try going outside and doing arts and crafts. This is a fun thing to do, and its very inexpensive. I mean, not just a paper and pencil, but try cool tye-dyeing and things like that. Also, camp is a great idea for an eleven year old, and there are some camps, like the YMCA camps that are very low priced.

Best of luck!