Parenting on a Budget

Affordable Family Vacations

There are many fun, affordable family vacations that offer that sought-after combination of affordable lodging and dining and kid friendly, low-cost attractions. A fun-filled family vacation doesn't have to be a budget buster. Washington, D.C. Most of Washington, D.C.'s attractions are free to the public, including museums, festivals, and national landmarks. Hotel rates are reasonable, especially on weekends when there are fewer business travelers, and the abundance of fairly-priced dining options have helped to move Washington, D.C. to the top of the affordable family vacation list. The Smithsonian Institution is a must see: You’ll find an exhibit there to suit every interest, from American history to Space Travel to Asian art. Kids are especially likely to appreciate the Air and Space Museum, where they can touch a real moon rock, tour a space craft and taste the freeze-dried ice cream eaten by astronauts during flight. Make sure the Natural History...

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Teach Your Child the Value of Money

Check out these great business ideas for your kids. It's more than just a way to make money: having a business, even a kid-sized one, helps develop problem-solving skills, social skills, financial responsibility and builds a child's self confidence. Are your kids looking for a way to earn money this summer but bored with baby-sitting and lemonade stands? There's no reason they have to be limited to the traditional "kid jobs" when there are options out there to fit almost every interest. It's more than just a way to make money: having a business, even a kid-sized one, helps develop problem-solving skills, social skills and financial responsibility and builds a child's self-confidence. The kid business ideas here are recommended for ages 10 and up, but the age appropriateness naturally depends on individual maturity level. You as a parent or guardian know best what your child is ready for and can...

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