Frugal Family: Springtime Deals for Your Restless Kids

It’s time to start thinking about getting back outside into the fresh air and sunshine for some exercise and fun with the kids. We've found some fabulous deals in the Westlake area that’ll have the kids burning calories. Don’t wait, though: most of these deals only last through April 2.

Target: Youth 20-inch bikes: $52 each  

After the kids have been cooped up in the house all winter, what could possibly be more fun than a shiny new bike that won’t break the bank? Now through Saturday, select kids’ 20-inch bicycles for the kiddies are just $52 each. The bikes come in a variety of colors and styles for both boys and girls, so there won’t be any quarreling to listen to from sassy siblings. And at that price, you’ll be able to afford new bikes for the whole bustling brood. Don’t forget to get helmets, too: they’re all 10% off as well. This sale ends April 2.

K-Mart: 44 inch basketball hoop and backboard: $99

Is that turn-around in your driveway looking a little naked lately? Why not jazz it up with a nifty new basketball hoop from K-Mart for the sports lovers in your life? Through April 2, shoppers can pick up a 44-inch adjustable basketball hoop with backboard and stand for just $99. Complete the driveway basketball madness with a Wilson home court basketball for just $9.99. It’s a great way for the kids to get outside and prime their sports skills while getting some much-needed post-winter exercise. Score!

Dick’s: Six-Sleeper Coleman Tent: $79.99

Whether it’s in your own backyard or at your favorite park or campground, camping is certainly an American pastime that the whole family can enjoy. This six-person tent is easy to set up and made by Coleman. It features weather-proofing to keep its occupants out of the rain or wind so they can rest comfortably inside. The sale ends on April 2, though, so get your fire pit ready and head to Dick’s Sporting Goods in Crocker Park before the sale ends and the tent price goes back to its MSRP of $169.99.

WalMart: Allegra Allergy 24 Hour: $5.94

All of the biking, basketball playing and camping might make your eyes water and your nose run, but you can prevent your springtime allergy attacks for less than a the cost of a fast food lunch with Allegra Allergy 24 Hour. Five pills (five days’ worth) will run shoppers just $5.94 at WalMart in either Avon or North Olmsted: a small price to pay for big time allergy relief.

Verizon Wireless: Free Blackberries (online only)

With the coming of warmer weather and summer break before you know it, the kids will be in and out and all over town doing what teens and ‘tweens do best: texting. Keep in touch  by arming them with a free Blackberry Curve 3G smartphone (with a two-year contract) from Verizon. Families can add another line and get their teen the coolest Blackberry phones so they’ll have no excuse not to call you back. The deal is only good online, though, and isn’t available in stores (the same model in Verizon stores is $100 with a $50 mail-in rebate).