School is just about out for summer. While some of us eagerly anticipate our long summer vacation, others dread it. The ever present threat of boredom looms over us. And like most parents, we take on the responsibility of never letting the kids get bored … ever.

If left to their own devices, my kids would inevitably plop themselves in front of the TV or computer for the entire summer. Oh sure, they are capable of doing other things on their own, but mainly at my insistence that whatever electronic babysitter stays in the "power off" mode. I call it unplugged, and they must remain unplugged and unglued to any screen until after supper. (That's the plan, anyway. Now let's see if I can stick to it!)

While for many summer camp can gobble up two weeks of boredom, financially it remains out of reach for many families. Ah, but there are lots of free or low cost alternatives. You just have to look for them. Your local newspaper can be a treasure trove of ideas so keep a close eye on it. The internet doesn't have everything!

Municipal parks and local recreation departments often run low cost boredom-busting summer programs. From an hour long science class to a half day sport camp for pre-schoolers. It's a good start to check with your community first.

We're lucky enough to live in an area where we've had a choice of pool passes, zoos, nature classes, art and dance academies, and a local baseball league. And what's summer without baseball? There's a festival of some sort every weekend nearby; too many to attend them all. In fact there's so much going on in the summer that we're in danger of becoming overscheduled! I'll have to remember to pencil in some real boredom time for my boys.

While I remember my childhood summers fondly, the bored days were really not so bad. In fact, boredom led to the discovery of old records, blueberry picking, catching tadpoles, lemonade stands and devouring countless books. While I can't exactly send my little ones off on their bikes for the day (not yet!) there are plenty of activities we can take part in close to home.

Baseball - On a team or just playing with friends at the local park. What would summer be without baseball? And for family outings, the local minor league team games are just as exciting and entertaining as the major leagues, for a fraction of the cost.

Zoos - Another summer staple. We're fortunate enough to have a couple big ones nearby for day trips, but also a smaller, free one for more frequent visits. And we might just get a few ideas on how to keep cool from the animals.

Swimming - We don't have a backyard pool, so we'll be joining the crowds at the local water park. We saved money by purchasing the "Twilight Pass", which means we can swim any evening or weekend. So we'll be spending our afternoons getting all hot and sweaty, only to dip in the local pool just as the masses are heading home for supper.

Movies/Concerts at the Park - I know we're not the only family that likes outdoor movies and concerts. I can't think of a better way for parents to unwind after a long hot work day than to grab a picnic supper and head for the local park. Spend some quality family time, reserve a great seat, and wait for dark and the evening's entertainment, and it's all free! Ours even has a playground to keep rambunctious kids occupied.

Drive-In Theater - We're still waiting for our local drive-in to open for the season, and it's not looking too promising. If you have one nearby but haven't been in awhile, make this your summer of the drive-in movie. It's an American tradition that is fast disappearing, so go make your memories this weekend if you can.

Farming - I checked the internet to find a local farm that offers educational programs for all ages, volunteer opportunities to work on the farm, and others that offer pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. It's a great outdoor activity for the whole family, and kids are often more interested in trying new foods when they've seen where it comes from and harvested it themselves.

Gardening - Whether you have a path, a corner of your yard, or a vast garden, or just a few containers on your balcony, get your kids involved in the growing process. Kids love the responsibility of their own gardens, and the learning goes on all summer long.

Museums - Check out your local museums for summer programs. Smaller museums are just as likely to have a class that may interest your child, and attract a smaller group than the big ones. Also, if you are able, join the tourists and plan an outing to see a special exhibit (we're looking forward to a lot of dinosaur exhibits this summer!). But make sure to call ahead to make sure it's appropriate for your children's age group if it's not a children's museum.

Shopping Mall - What can your local mall do for you besides suck the money right out of your pocket? Check with their customer service booth (or the internet!) to find out about special events planned for the summer months. You may be pleasantly surprised.

Community College - While most community colleges are geared toward adult learners, many of their summer school offerings are more likely to include your older children, and are also less academic and more recreational.

Library - Local libraries are always trying to get you to come in out of the heat, but not just for the air-conditioning. Check out their summer programming for kids and adults alike. But the library is also a good place to make your plans for a rainy day. You'll find a never-ending supply of ideas in the arts and crafts type books and magazines, but don't overlook the science books. I found a few large binders filled with all kinds of fun experiments in the reference section of our local library.

Musical Instruments - While most kids begin playing an instrument through their school music program, summertime is actually the ideal time to try something new. Without the academic and social pressures of school and homework, your child will be better able to concentrate on the new skills he will be learning, and therefore better able to gauge whether he really enjoys it or not.

Summer is also a great time to get started on a big project. Some kids use the unlimited free time to build their first tree house or go-kart. Others gather a group of friends to plan a talent show or a neighborhood carnival. Still others will delve into studying a new subject that didn't get covered in school, but interests them nonetheless.

Whatever your plans this summer, whether it be family togetherness or individual pursuits, try something new. That way your children will be less likely to utter those famous words: "I'm bored."