Another March Break is upon us and we find ourselves scrambling for ways to entertain the kids that will not leave us applying for a bank loan at the end of the week-long vacation.  So what’s the best way to plan a successful staycation that will keep them entertained without breaking the bank?   Well, here are some suggestions:

Rogers Spring Fling 2012:  Canada’s largest indoor carnival returns to Rogers Centre for a seven-day run through March Break 2012. Spring Fling is your solution to the question, “what should we do with the kids this March Break?” Enjoy midway fun with rides, family entertainment on the Children’s Stage, and interact with 26 exotic animals with Reptilia.   For more information, check out their website: Rogers Spring Fling 2012.  This week PeachyBuy.com has a deal where you can buy the $20 All-day Ride pass for $10 (This is only valid for Saturday March 10 and Sunday March 11).  It’s a limited buy so hurry up and get it!

Swimming Pools across the GTA: This is a favourite of my kids and it’s a great way to get some exercise and have some indoor fun.  One of our favourites is The Wave Pool in Richmond Hill.  Although a little out of the way, this place is perfect for some inexpensive fun for kids and adults alike.   Click Here for March Break schedules and admission fees.  Another favourite of ours is Legends Centre in Oshawa.  Again, a little out of the way, but very affordable and tons of fun with a lazy river, water slide, water spray, hot tub and sauna.   Click Here for Legends Centre March Break schedule.  Most pools in the GTA have special hours for March Break, so check out their websites or catalogues.

Skiing/Snowboarding: Winter sports are definitely not the most affordable way to entertain the kids.  Between lift tickets (usually 20 up to $35 or $40) and equipment rental, this can become a pricey activity for families.  However, most ski clubs have Discover Packages that can make it a little bit more affordable.  Brimacombe Ski Club in Oshawa, for example, has a $48 Discover Package that includes lift tickets for the bunny hill, (price jumps to $75 for the bigger hills) a 1-hour group lesson and equipment rental for 4 hours– perfect for those of you who would like to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time.  Another great choice is the City of Toronto’s Centennial and Earl Bales parks.   And yes, even though the mild weather conditions have not exactly been conducive to trying out the sport for those first-timers, the parks still manage to get enough of the white stuff to keep the hills open.  Admission rates range from $12 to $29 for an all-day pass and equipment rental is very affordable.  Every Saturday after 4:00 p.m. families can take advantage of the Pay for one adult and 2 kids ski/snowboard for free deal.  (Equipment rental is not included). Click here for more information on Centennial and Earl Bales parks.

Going to the movies: Movies are always an option.  We all love going to the movies, but it’s not easy nowadays, however, to bring a family of four or five (or more) to the movies ’cause with the rising cost of movie tickets and concession stand items, things do add up and many families prefer (or can only afford) to just rent a movie and stay home.  But it’s March Break and this is one of the few occasions where spending a little money on a day out with the kids is worth it.  But don’t despair: there’s alwasy a little help.  Some movie theatres, like AMC theatres, offer a $6 (taxes included) before noon promotion.  This price is for both children and adults.  Regular ticket prices are around $13 for adults and $8.50 for children ages 2 to 12.  So if you’re an early riser, this is one deal that you can take advantage of.

There are many other choices that can be just as fun and affordable: Taking them to McDonald’s and spending sometime at their play place never fails.  Having a couple of their classmates over for a play date and some snacks is another option.  Libraries around the city also offer a lot of free-of-charge options this week.  Or just going out to many of the city indoor or outdoor skating rinks, pools and even parks (weather permitting) could be a lot of fun.  And if all else fails, staying home playing video games is always an option.  Just make sure it is their last option.