While we all know financial constraints are a reality, especially when it comes to extra curricular activities, if it’s God’s plan, He will provide. If your child is passionate about something, but the cost doesn’t fit your budget, pray and ask God for creative ideas to fund it.
Call the activity directors and ask if there are scholarships or financial aid or if you could exchange work for lessons. You might be able to answer phones, file, stuff letters, and so on, in exchange for all or part of your child’s tuition.
Horse back riding lessons are pricey, and we have a big family. But one of our kids plans to be an equine vet, so we know that horses need to play a part in her extra curricular plan. During her annual week of horse camp, she’s built relationships with the trainers and worked out a deal this year to exchange cleaning out stalls for riding instruction.
Talk to family members. A semester’s tuition could be a far more valuable Christmas or birthday gift than toys or clothing – especially if it’s something that feeds your child’s true passion.
As you plan this year’s extra curricular activites, don’t let financial constraints hinder your child from pursuing her passions. With God all things are possible!
This is encouraging. We have not quite entered this stage of life, other than swim lessons and little-ones-soccer, but I am keeping this in mind. As with all your posts.
These are some GREAT ideas. Our church is exploring a concept that has been around for awhile called a Time Bank. Google it for more info, but basically it is a community project based first on community and then on giving something you have to offer in exchange for something you need, ie., a ride to the Doc in exchange for a meal in exchange for plumbing repair….
That sounds amazing, Jena! Thank you for sharing it. Be blessed!