04 Oct Budget-Friendly Fun: Activities for Families During School Break in Accra
Long school vacations can be both a joy and a challenge for parents, many of whom dread this period, wondering how to keep their children entertained without breaking the bank. While enrolling kids in vacation schools or summer camps is a common solution, these options can be quite expensive. If you’re looking for low-budget activities to keep your young ones occupied, this article is tailored for you.
Plan your Leave
Consider taking the leave from work you’ve been planning since the beginning of the year. Aligning your leave with your children’s long breaks is a great way to start. Both parents and children often feel burnt out, and a well-planned vacation can provide the perfect opportunity for the family to relax. Enjoy leisurely mornings, make breakfast together, and catch up on lost time.
Cooking Together
Vacations are an ideal time to try new recipes. Dust off that cookbook on your shelf and introduce new dishes to your family. Encourage picky eaters to try more vegetables and fruits. Involving children in the kitchen can be a fun and educational experience. This is also a great time to teach them new chores or involve them in the family business, providing valuable work experience.
Art and Craft Activities
Set up a painting arena in your compound. Equip your children with drawing pads, paintbrushes, paints, or crayons, and encourage them to create whatever comes to mind. Join in the fun; it’s therapeutic! To make it more engaging, have each family member present their masterpiece and explain their inspiration.
Nature Walks and Excursions
Take your children on nature walks or short trips. A drive to Aburi, with its scenic views and fresh fruits, can be refreshing. Walk up the mountain and buy fruits on your way back. Regular outdoor activities can combat the sedentary lifestyle many children lead, reducing the risk of obesity.
Parks and Recreational Centres
Visit local parks for playtime and exercise. University of Ghana offers several sporting arenas where families can enjoy various activities.There are also water parks such as Splash and Play in the Airport Residential Area and Elinesis Waterpark in Oyarifa. For a fun day out, you can visit the Papaye Recreational Village or dine at restaurants with playgrounds like Gazebo View in Dzorwulu. Depending on your budget, you might also consider Bliss Family Entertainment. Pack some snacks or lunch and spend a day playing and exercising with your children.
Visit the Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Accra Zoo, Legon Botanical Gardens and Aburi Botanical Gardens are fantastic places for a family day out. These locations offer plenty of activities to keep children engaged and active. For a more adventurous outing, plan a trip to Kakum National Park or the Cape Coast Castle. Inviting friends and family can make these trips even more enjoyable.
Explore Accra
Take your family on an Accra tour. Visit Museum for Science and Technology, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, and other historical sites. These educational outings can be both fun and informative.
Beach Time
Walking on the beach is a delightful and free activity. Let the children run around while you enjoy a relaxing stroll with your partner. The sound of the waves and the fresh air can be incredibly rejuvenating.
Reading
Encourage a love for reading by ensuring everyone reads a book before bed each night. This can become a cherished family routine and a way to wind down the day.
There are numerous activities you can engage in to make the long vacations enjoyable and memorable for your children. Feel free to add more fun ideas in the comments!
Enjoy your time together!
