A Grandparent's Guide to Summer Fun and Financial Lessons

June 30, 2023

As a grandparent, there's nothing quite like spending quality time with your grandchildren and instilling important life lessons. Now that summer is in full swing and children are gearing up for visits, many grandparents will look for opportunities to do just that. Fortunately for those living in and around Tampa Bay, the area is bursting with activities and attractions that are perfect for grandparents and grandchildren alike, and many provide the opportunity to teach financial responsibility, too. First, let's dive into some the best places to visit with grandkids this summer:
  

1. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium (Clearwater): This aquarium offers an immersive and educational experience for all ages. Visit underwater worlds and learn how the team feeds, interacts with, and keeps its resident animals healthy.

 

2. Lowry Park Zoo (Tampa): Home to more than 1,300 animals, the zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers. From giraffes and elephants to lions and koalas, it provides the perfect opportunity for kids to connect with wildlife.

 

3. Glazer Children's Museum (Tampa): Designed specifically for children, the museum is sure to inspire learning with numerous interactive exhibits, including a mock supermarket, a bank, and a veterinary clinic, and more.

 

4. Great Explorations Children’s Museum (St. Petersburg): This hands-on museum has interactive exhibits and educational programs guaranteed to provide an afternoon of fun.

 

5. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature (Bradenton): This museum provides is a great place to discover the fascinating  world of science and the history of Florida and enjoy the Parker Manatee Aquarium.

 

6. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary (Sarasota): Check out this sanctuary to get up close to lions, tigers, bears and other rescued animals.

 

7. Children’s Garden and Art Center (Sarasota): The Center features a whimsical garden with interactive sculptures and art activities for children of all ages.

 

8. Sunken Gardens (St. Petersburg): Wander through this lush botanical paradise bursting with exotic plants, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant blooms.

Though fun will certainly take the front seat at each of these stops, they also all provide great opportunities to teach children lessons about financial responsibility. As you explore and enjoy, you can also engage your grandkids in conversations about:
  

• How you saved up for entrance fees or other purchases, and how they can set savings goals, too.
• Cost savings of memberships or passes versus ongoing visits.
• Donating to causes they care about, like rescued animals.
• The value of delayed gratification, like the awesome day their having.
• Spending only what was budgeted for the day. Try to bring cash only and help them plan out purchases.
• Wants and needs, like food versus a stuffed animal or other keepsakes.

  
And if you’re looking for one more important stop, consider visiting one of our local banking centers for a real-life banking experience. At each you can open children 12 and under a savings account by signing them up for our Cash Kids Club. From there they can learn smart money skills on our free app, use free services like online banking and mobile banking, and watch their savings grow thanks to their competitive interest rate. Plus, they’ll receive a cool swag bag.

While Tampa is a city filled with excitement and adventure, it also presents many opportunities for grandparents to impart valuable lessons about money management to their grandchildren. By combining unforgettable experiences with financial education, you can create lifelong memories while setting your grandkids on the path to financial success.