Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. Before you know it, school will be out and the kids will be home looking for things to do.
Last week, I gave you 3 great reasons to shop kids consignment sales/stores -- this week, I thought I'd share a list of what to look for as you prepare for a fun (and low-cost) summer.
Many of these items can be found at garage sales and consignment sales/stores which can save you money for that summer vacation you're planning.
Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links for your convenience.
1. Books, books, books
Make a list of what your kids are reading, what author they might like or books you want to introduce your kids to this summer. You can find low-cost books at garage sales, consignment sales and library books sales. Or consider hosting a 'Book Trade' among neighborhood families so everyone can be ready for some summer reading!
If your looking for titles to add to your summer reading list, browse our 50 Amazing Read Aloud Books and the Best Books for Summer Fun lists for a few ideas!
2. Outdoor toys
Think hula-hoops, balls, sidewalk chalk, pool toys, sandbox toys, things to collect bugs in/with, small flashlights for flashlight tag, outdoor games like bocce or badminton, etc. Anything to get the kids some time in the sun!
3. Art Supplies
Yes, you can find art items at yard and consignment sales - coloring/activity books, art & craft sets, easels, paint supplies, colored pencils, jewelry-making kits and containers to store things in to keep them organized! Also keep an eye out for craft materials such as pipe cleaners, googly eyes, fabric scraps, etc.
4. Things to Ride
Bikes, scooters, skates, wagons and bike seats for little kids. All of these riding items help kids to develop balance and large motor skills during the summertime.
5. Small 'surprise' items
Going on vacation? Need a few small items to keep kids busy in the car? Now's the time to look for those! Tuck them away and you'll be all set when you need them. We found a set of these cute travel bingo cards a few years ago and use them every summer.
6. Sports equipment
Do you have a basketball at home (teach kids to dribble and you can always find a hoop at the park). Thinking about going fishing over the summer? Or maybe your kids have wanted to try baseball but you don't have a bat & ball? Introduce them to something new this summer at a great price!
7. Dress-up/Pretend Play
Kids always love to pretend and play dress-up, so look for items you think will add some fun to their creative play this summer. You might even go through your own closet to see what you can donate to the dress up box!
8. Hobby items
Does your child collect something? Look for items to add to their collection: trading cards, coin books, mini-erasers, 'squinkies', etc.
9. Add-on items for Electronic Learning
Consignment sales are a great place to find additional Leap Pad books & cartridges, games for portable gaming systems or books & software for those electronic readers. Hint: Bring a few batteries of various sizes so you can try out electronics before you buy them.
10. Learning Items
Is your child learning to tell time? Look for a clock for their room. Kids need practice with their writing? Look for a fun notebook they can turn into a summer journal and practice their writing skills. Or maybe they're having trouble with math facts? Have them look for fun math items (games, workbooks, etc.) that will help encourage them to practice this summer.
This article is right on time. At the first sign of spring I find myself returning and updatinng a list of things to get and list of things to do all having to do with being prepared for outdoor fun...this includes items for last minute pic nics in the park. I keep a well stocked "fun box" in the trunk of my car with everything from frisbies, scoop ball set, bubbles, $1 store kites, ball/mitt ...and in the summer xtra swim shorts). It pays off to be prepared ready for fun whenever the sun is shining!