If you're looking to keep your children entertained on a budget this year, then you'll want to make sure that you get good value, and don't have to spend money unnecessarily.
Here are 10 low cost activities that your children will enjoy.
1.
 Your children have probably got lots of games that they haven't played in a while.
Why not make a day of playing board games, or model making with your family, and seeing what else you have that you can play with.
  You're likely to be surprised.
  You could also make it a good excuse to tidy the toy cupboard too! 2.
 If you have space in your garden, why not set up a badminton net, or a small trampoline, or a swing?  You don't need to spend a fortune, and your children will get a lot of enjoyment from playing in the garden.
  In addition, you'll know where they are, and they'll be getting fresh air and exercise too.
3.
 What about taking them swimming? You might find that your leisure centre has special offers for children during the summer, or that there are other activities available that they'll enjoy.
4.
 If they've shown an interest in a sport, why not see if they can participate in it locally? Perhaps the Tour de France or Wimbledon has inspired them, or they're keen on being a footballer or a swimmer.
  5.
 Why not go out for picnics on your bikes? By going out as a family you'll spend more time together, and get to visit places you don't normally go to, and do things you don't normally do.
  You don't need to go far, or fast, and just being outside will make you feel better than being cooped up inside all day.
6.
 Don't for get about your local library.
  You can encourage your children to read, and even borrow books yourself, so that both you and your children can read the latest best sellers.
There may also be activities planned, such as reading sessions, or guest visits from authors.
  7.
 As a treat, why not ask your children to invite some friends round, and watch a couple of DVDs? By providing a bit of party food as well, you're sure to be the coolest parents around! 8.
 Why not go to the park? As well as good exercise for the children and the dog, it'll give you a bit of fresh air too.
You could take a football or a badminton set, so that you can all join in.
9.
 Why not see if your children want to help you in the kitchen? Who doesn't enjoy making cakes or biscuits?  By teaching them the basics of cooking, you can explain the importance of eating healthily, which will stand them in good stead as they get older.
  10.
  Your local council may have some activities planned for the summer holiday.
  Perhaps you children might be interested in dance lessons, trying a different sport, getting to know the local area or helping with a community project.
  Who knows, this could become a hobby.
Keeping your kids entertained this holiday doesn't have to too expensive.
A good piece of parental advice is not to give in to your children's demands to buy them everything they want.
  In the long term, they'll appreciate you spending your time with them much more than having the latest fashions or a new video game.