Families with young kids

Halloween can be a pricey time – and often much of what you buy ends up in the bin, charity shop bag or loft. Not very MoneySaving! But if you still want to have fun on a budget, there are lots of things you can do and make that cost nothing at all. The only rule here is no shopping – you have to use what's already in the house.

This year's World Book Day is Thursday 7 March, and – like most parents – it's likely you'll have the World Book Day costume stress as you strive to find the right outfit for your child but see the cost going up and up. Even home-made costumes can be pricey – but if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect costume, fear not! There are plenty of ways to nail it on a budget.

With February half term upon us, we've rounded up 21 tips to keep the wee ones entertained without a hefty price tag. Whether you're staying indoors or wrapping up to spend time outside, we've activities to make time fly – from glamping in the front room to having a virtual tiger come to tea in your kitchen.