Most of us grew up being able to participate in activities after school, such as choirs, sports teams and academic clubs. However, many after school programs go on the chopping block every year as schools contend with greater need and smaller educational resources. For families struggling to make ends meet, this may limit or take away altogether a child’s activities outside of the classroom. Consequently, we’re seeing more and more children unsupervised and at loose ends in the hours between finishing school and when their parents get home. In this article, we’ll look at some cost efficient activities and community programs that will fill the gaps in your child’s education.
A shaky economy doesn’t negate the need for fun and educational activities after school, with sports being the most popular and expensive. Besides administration fees, parents have to pay for equipment, equipment maintenance, uniforms, transportation costs, and sometimes out of town accommodations. There are several ways to reduce these costs and make sports more affordable for your family. Start by shopping for equipment and supplies off season. Items like hockey gear are much cheaper in the warm months when they are discounted. Don’t hesitate to buy used equipment like sticks, balls, skates and nets that are in good condition. You can score great equipment at 40-70% less than retail at second-hand stores that carry used sports equipment. You can also ask the team if they have used uniforms that you can purchase or rent. Don’t let old equipment sit around the house either! Sell it through newspaper classified ads, online or at a consignment shop for cash or store credit. This is a great way to offset the cost of new equipment.
For music lovers, there are also many ways to cut costs. Instead of purchasing a new, expensive instrument that your child may lose interest in, consider renting or look into your school’s leasing program. Some music stores subsidize school art programs by providing leases that you can pay for on a monthly basis. This pay-as-you-go method is ideal for a child who is learning an instrument for the first time. If you find that they don’t enjoy it, you simply discontinue the lease. Many music and second-hand stores also offer used equipment and sheet music at discounted prices.
Membership fees and tuition make up a large portion of the cost of extra-curricular activities. If one-on-one lessons are too expensive for your family, then there are more affordable alternatives. Organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Scouts, YMCA, YWCA, and Little Leagues offer inexpensive membership fees and activities at a very low cost.
Discussing cost saving measures with other parents is an excellent way to come up with ideas. If your children participate in the same activities, you may save time and gas money by car pooling. You can also swap or share equipment, clothes or musical instruments. You may find parents who run activities after school out of their home, but make sure you thoroughly investigate this option to make sure it is a safe environment.
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