8 Free (and Fun!) Things to Do with Your Kids When You’re Watching the Dirhams

Between school fees, birthday parties, and the constant cry of “Can I have this?” — parenting can be an expensive business.

But the good news? Some of the best family memories don’t cost a thing. Whether you’re saving for holidays or just tired of swiping that card, here are eight free ways to have fun with your kids — no wallet required.

1. Picnic in the park

Pack up the leftovers, grab a blanket, and head to your nearest green spot. Kids don’t care if it’s quinoa salad or cheese sandwiches — eating outside feels instantly exciting. Bonus points if you bring bubbles or a frisbee.

2. Have a ‘Yes Day’ (with limits!)

Let your kids choose everything for a day — the activities, the menu, even your outfit (gulp). Just set ground rules: it has to be free, safe, and doable. You’ll be amazed how creative they get when spending isn’t an option.

3. Build a blanket fort

Turn your living room into an indoor adventure zone with sheets, fairy lights and snacks. Add story time, movie night, or even a “camping sleepover” — all without leaving the house. Cheap, cheerful, and full of giggles.

4. Explore your neighbourhood like tourists

Go for a “photo walk” and see your area through fresh eyes. Let the kids take pictures of interesting doors, buildings, trees, or street art. Later, print their favourites and make a DIY photo wall.

5. Swap toys with friends

Toys lose their sparkle fast — unless they’re “new-to-them.” Organise a mini toy swap with neighbours or friends. Everyone gets something fresh to play with, and your wallet stays blissfully untouched.

6. Get creative with cooking

Turn dinnertime into a “kids cook-off.” Give them a few ingredients and let them play chef. (Expect some weird combos and lots of mess — but that’s half the fun.)

7. Free movie marathon

Check out your streaming subscriptions for free kids’ films, or go classic with YouTube cartoons from your childhood. Make homemade popcorn, dim the lights, and pretend it’s a cinema — without the 50-dirham ticket.

8. Star-gazing or cloud-spotting

Lie on a blanket, look up, and just… be. Make up stories about the shapes you see or spot constellations at night. It’s free mindfulness for them and a breather for you.

Because the truth is — kids don’t remember what you spent, they remember how they felt. And the best memories? They’re always the ones that don’t come with a receipt.