Try stamp and coin collecting. Why?  Because you can start today and you can start on the cheap.  It is something you can do for yourself or for your kids.  Everyday the mail can bring new stamps, and the change in your pocket is always available. 

Stamp collecting is highly educational-- every stamp has a story.  You and your kids can learn plenty.  Stamps can be collected by country, by type (commemoratives, airmail, covers, First Day Covers, etc.), or by subject (i.e.: girls might be interested in butterfly stamps, boys in dinosaur stamps).  Tell a few people you are saving stamps for the kids and you will be amazed by what they come up with.

Coins are fun as well-- they too have stories.  Some have value based on their metal content (i.e.: silver).  I always check my change for silver coins 1964 and earlier and pre-1959 pennies.  They can be collected by country, denomination, or some other way.  If you check your bills you may get lucky and find silver certificates.

Want to get started?  Start on the internet, the library, your mailbox, and your change pocket.

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