Spring break is just around the corner and it’s time to plan fun activities that your special nieces and nephews will remember for years to come. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to keep the family entertained that are also cheap and close to home. Follow our tips for a spring break filled with lots of laughs, rewarding experiences, and best of all – bonding with your nieces and nephews!

Organize a family picnic! Take advantage of the beautiful weather and head outside to the park, your backyard, or a local camping area. Pack sandwiches, fruits, veggies, juice boxes, and other tasty treats to munch on. Bring a radio for some kid-friendly tunes to set the fun, carefree mood.

Never underestimate the bonding power of community service! Not only will you and the kids be spending quality time together, but giving back to the community is an invaluable experience that builds compassion and empathy for those who are less fortunate. Research local volunteer opportunities at soup kitchens, nursing homes, orphanages, or even animal shelters. Everyone will leave with an amazing sense of satisfaction that can only be found through helping others in need.

Set up a lemonade and/or brownie stand, and let your nieces and nephews have fun serving the sweet-toothed customers. Remember, half the fun of this activity is making fresh lemonade and baking sweets together!

There are nearly 400 national park sites in the U.S. Is there one near you? Take the kids for a relaxing walk through a nature trail, spot spring flowers in bloom, and enjoy the fresh spring air.

The weather not in your favor? Host a fun movie/cartoon marathon! Clear the living room and set up comfy blankets and pillows for the family to cozy up on. Popcorn is a must!

Marlene Wallach is President and Owner of Wilhelmina Kids and Teens, and Founder of JustAskMarlene.com. You can always Just Ask Marlene your questions in the Comments section below, or email Savvy Auntie at Editor@SavvyAuntie.com to pass the message along to me.

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