After-School Activities on a Budget: Keeping Kids Engaged Without Breaking the Bank

At Bank of New Hampshire, we understand that after-school activities can be both time-consuming and costly for families. On average, parents spend thousands of dollars each year on these activities per child, with costs for uniforms, equipment and lessons quickly adding up. Yet, keeping kids engaged and active is more important than ever in today’s digital age. While some activities can be expensive, there here are some of budget-friendly alternatives that your child can enjoy!

Student Government:

• Encourage your child to get involved in student government, a fantastic way to develop leadership skills while participating in their school community. The best part? It’s free and available at almost every school, both private and public.

Athletics:

• Track and Cross Country: Many sports require expensive gear, but Track and Cross Country are almost entirely free. All your child needs are a pair of running shoes! Joining an after-school track or run club provides a healthy outlet for their energy.
• Swimming: Swimming can be very budget-friendly with school swim teams and affordable classes available statewide. The local YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs often offer inexpensive lessons, and local swimming pools often provide low-cost options to help your child improve their skills.

Music/Theater:

• Participating in plays and musicals, often offered by schools, can be a very budget-friendly way for your child to explore the arts. Band and orchestra programs are also widely available, with rental instruments making these activities accessible without a significant financial burden.

Dance:

• Dance classes are another relatively affordable option. While not all schools have dance teams, numerous dance studios across the state offer inexpensive classes that are worth exploring.

Clubs:

• Chess Club: If your child’s school offers a chess club, it can be a very affordable after-school activity. Chess helps expand their minds and teaches strategic thinking.
• Language Club: Language clubs, such as French, Spanish or Mandarin, are often available at schools and provide a fantastic opportunity for young children to learn a new language in a fun, engaging environment.

Whatever the activity, there are many ways to make after-school activities budget-friendly while keeping your kids engaged. Back to school doesn’t need to be stressful, and Bank of New Hampshire is here to help! Check out our BNH Blog for more tips and support.