Lowe's Build & Grow 2nd & 4th Saturdays

You know how Boy Scouts build things and get patches on their vest? I really wanted that for our son. But I wasn't keen on the fees and weekly meetings. So, the Kids' Build and Grow at Lowe's (and Home Depot's version) was a nice and FREE alternative. Check it out this Saturday. They're building this soccer goal. Mobile Hwy's store starts the program by 9am- they get about 100 kids so come early. Otherwise, it's 10-11am for most stores. On April 23, they will build this birdhouse. Just show up with your children (as young as 3 is ok but you will end up doing most of the work). They provide a FREE apron, FREE project, and Certificate of Completion. There are kiddie hammers and goggles for use. It's been great seeing our little ones improve their hammering skills over the years. Plus they have so much fun! One downside is that all these crafts do add up quickly. So this year, we are planning on making a few and giving them away as presents. The actual building time takes less than half an hour. When we get home, we sand and paint and beautify them.

I consider these building projects as part of our homeschooling experience. The fact that it's free is a nice bonus! What are your favorite local events for children? Share a few and visit Frugal Fridays for more frugal tips. Visit Lowe's to sign-up online or just show up Saturday.