Now that summer has officially started, are you trying to determine your “summer bucket list”? Last Tuesday my son had his last day of school and by Wednesday afternoon the words “I’m bored” came out of his mouth at least five times. It got me thinking of some ways to curtail his “boredom” throughout the summer all while staying within a budget. While the list can be endless depending on your imagination and creativity, I thought I would share a few of my ideas:
- Visit your local library. The libraries have great summer reading programs for families, and by encouraging your children to read over the summer they avoid the “summer slide”.
- Check out your local parks and recreation department for summer activities. Many of them offer short term camps that children can participate in. Some have a cost, but may offer discounts if you are a community resident.
- Cool off at a local splash pad. Many Miami Valley neighborhoods have splash pads that are free to use. This is a great way to spend hot days!
- Volunteer. There are many great organizations that encourage families to volunteer together. What a great way to teach your children the value of giving back to your community all while meeting new people!
Many people feel that in order to have a great summer you have to spend a lot of money on extravagant vacations to far off destinations. While it is always fun to take summer road trips or jet across the world, there are plenty of local attractions in the Dayton area to occupy you and your children’s summer. Below are a few attractions right here in the Dayton area that are free:
- National Museum of the United States Air Force – Take a day to explore aviation history right here in our own backyard. Bonus: the museum is air conditioned so on those high humidity days it’s a great way to stay cool. For more information check out www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.
- Five Rivers Metroparks – Take time to explore nature at these beautiful parks throughout our community. A great way to get some fresh air and exercise. Make an afternoon of it and pack a picnic lunch! Some parks that are a part of the Metroparks are Riverscape, Wegerzyn Garden Center and Cox Arboretum. For a full list of Metroparks check out their website at www.metroparks.org.
- Miami Valley Trails – With over 300 miles of paved, multi-use recreational trails in the Miami Valley, chances are there is a bike trail near you. Check out their website to plan your next biking adventure: www.miamivalleytrails.org.
If your goal is to get out of town and take that dream summer vacation, whether this summer or next, please know that Day Air Credit Union is here to help! We can help you set up a savings plan for future vacation goals. Or if your upcoming vacation funds are a little short we have short term loans or credit cards that can make up the difference so that your dream vacation becomes a reality. Contact us today at 937-643-2160 to speak with one of our Member Service Representatives to get your summer vacation plans in motion!
Amy Cline, Director of Member Services