Let’s face it, sometimes homeschooling can be a financial struggle. Whether you are surviving on one income, or working and homeschooling to pull those ends a little closer together, you are sacrificing for this freedom to homeschool. I don’t mind the sacrifice because I value the freedom of homeschooling beyond measure. But sometimes, I wish we could do … something. Something big and adventurous and extravagant!

When I get this feeling, my planning kicks into creative mode and I pack up some leftover ham and cheese sliders, grapes, dry cereal, and a handful of SlimJims. I gather my family and we head out to a new hiking location. We fly the kids’ RC airplanes they got for Christmas. And we go out for ice cream. (Yup, this is exactly what we did this past Saturday!)

On the way home from our “adventure” I thought about all the free fun we have out of necessity, and I made this list. Everything on it is free … or low-cost if you add in ice cream! I already included a lot of educational outings you can do on a budget in “Homeschooling With Pennies: A Realistic Homeschool Budget,” so this list is just plain fun. 😊

• Visit a new, local playground and stay until the kids want to leave. Bonus if you have a beach or lake nearby. Pack snacks and drinks!
• Go for a nature scavenger hunt. There are many free versions online.
• Invite another homeschool family to join you on a field trip to a new library.
• Get out ALL the outside toys and make your own field day at home. Bonus: invite friends!
• Head for the country and visit a local farm for an animal encounter. This must be arranged ahead of time, but is easily done, especially if you can bring requested food scraps from home for the animals.
• Think sports – frequent your local field, track, or court to play together as a family!
• Bike ride in a new area. We have rail trails that make for safe and easy family bike routes.
• Tour an RV sales lot. This can also motivate you to create more free fun while you save up for future travel adventures!
• Volunteer together! Church, soup kitchen, helping neighbors, etc.

The next time you feel trapped by your homeschooling finances, I hope you remember this list and find a way to go DO. As always, Homeschool Sunshine is here for you, offering encouragement, coaching, and a happier approach to homeschooling!

Homeschool Happy!

Jessica Leavitt, Homeschool Sunshine Coach

If you need more encouragement, consider signing up for homeschool coaching. Find out how coaching can help, and read how Homeschool Sunshine Coaching has helped other moms gain more confidence and increase the joy in their homeschool!