Look for "kids free" deals

I like going places with my kids, but it can add up fast. Luckily, many kid-friendly places offer "kids free" deals with adult admission from time to time. You just need to look for them, sort of like those kids eat free deals at restaurants. Sometimes these kid entertainment deals are in advertisements, particularly in those coupon mags and envelopes. And sometimes you find even deals by checking Facebook, Twitter and company Web sites.

Deals change all the time, so I keep a list of places we want to go on the fridge to remind me of where we want to go. This helps me remember not to toss out certain ads. I'll take a few minutes searching the web, too. I've seen zoo, aquarium and botanical garden deals in the past.

Since I'm mentioning deals, I did learn today that Shamrock Farms is offering a "Kids Ride Free" deal Saturdays in October, starting Oct. 8. The way it works is you get a free child admission with each paid adult admission during public tours. Some restrictions apply, so do check ahead. The tour includes a look at the working dairy and its history. Cost is regularly $9 for adults and $6 for kids 2-12. Reservations are recommended by calling 602-477-2462. More info: www.shamrockfarmstour.com. And, there are some special tours Oct. 10-14 for fall break. Call for details.

Cheers!