TORONTO, ONTARIO — (Marketwire) — 03/07/13 — No more teachers and no more books. With March Break right around the corner, kids are preparing for a week without schools, while parents fret over ways to keep them amused, without breaking the bank.
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada, Inc., understands that the pressure is on for parents to find fun an enriching activities during school-s March Break. However, with the average household sitting at 164 per cent, it-s difficult for the average Canadian family to have a memorable spring break vacation without letting their spending get out of control.
“March Break doesn-t have to be about a week on the beach or an extravagant family vacation,” says Jeffrey Schwartz, executive director of Consolidated Credit. “If you-re staying home for the break, give your kids a budget and let them plan their activities for the week.”
“Not only will it take the pressure of planning off mom and dad it-s also an effective way to teach kids the value of money.”
To help make the March Break planning process a little easier, Consolidated Credit offers these ideas to help families have a great vacation on shoestring :
Get off the couch – Just because school is out, doesn-t mean kids can-t get some exercise. Go to a local skating rink, toboggan hill or pool to get active as a family.
Movie marathon – March doesn-t always promise the nicest of weather. On those less than lovely days host an indoor family party. Borrow some movies from the library, make some popcorn and have a pajama party.
Crafternoon – Kids love to be creative and use their imaginations. Hit up your local dollar store for inexpensive craft supplies and have a fun afternoon of crafting. Turn your house into a gallery to display their creative work.
Family cook out – Bond with your kids in the kitchen. Teach them how to bake their favorite cookies, or even let them plan and cook a family meal.
Game-a-thon – Nothing creates memories quite like playing games as a family. Pull out all of your favorite board games, or even create your own, for a day of fun family competition.
Make it a group affair – Get together with other families and plan different activities throughout the week. Each family can host the group of kids on different days and plan activities for their day of the week. This takes the pressure off parents, who only have to plan for one day and may not have the entire week off from work.
There is no need for March Break to be a week of money madness. With a little frugal creativity and imagination, families can create wonderful memories without busting their household budgets. Parents can even visit helpful websites, like , for wallet-friendly ideas and activities to keep the kids busy.
About Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada:
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada is a national non-profit credit counselling organization that teaches consumers about personal finance. For more information, visit or call the toll-free phone line at 1.800.656.3920.
Contacts:
For more information or to request an interview
with Jeffrey Schwartz, please contact:
Consolidated Credit Counseling Services of Canada, Inc.:
Kylie-Anne Doerner
Communications & Public Relations Manager
(B) 416.915.7283 ext. 1057 or © 289.231.7900