THE one thing more important to your children than tv and video games is quality time with their father. Unfortunately, between work and the rest of life's demands, it's often hard to find the time to spend.

All is not lost, though. There are actually many ways to spend important, quality time with your children without breaking your time bank. Below are ten ways that I've enjoyed spending time with my children that puts a smile on their faces every time.

1. Tell them a story
Children love stories and playing make believe. Telling your kids stories is not only fun, it is educational. Check out these ten reasons why telling stories to your children is beneficial.

2. Go on a picnic
Food, fun and games with dad. What can be better? Turn your picnics into memories with these great picnic ideas.

3. Take a vacation
Family vacations are remembered forever. With a little creativity, you can plan a rewarding vacation with your kids that won't cost a fortune. Here are 20 family vacation ideas for under $800.

4. Build a fort
A child's imagination is endless. Dress up with them, build a fort and hang on. Check out this list of fun fort ideas.

5. Make S'mores
I can still smell them every time I think of making S'mores with my family. See the S'mores recipe if you have missed out on this classic treat.

6. Grow a garden
Gardening can be fun for the whole family. The trick is letting each person grow what they want and letting them do it on their own. If you need help, check out these 10 ways to make gardening more fun.

7. Eat together
Perhaps nothing is more commonly enjoyed than eating. It may be difficult to find the time to eat together, but make it a priority. Look at these ideas for turning dinnertime into family time for help.

8. Help with homework
Even though it's summer, your kids may still have homework from summer school or just enjoy learning. Roll up your sleeves and help out. These tips for helping your kids with homework will make the time even more rewarding.

9. Take a road trip
If you don't have time for a family vacation, make plans for road trips. There are more than likely dozens of great places in your area you can visit in one day. Check out these car travel tips for making the trip itself fun too. Remember, the joy is in the journey.

10. PLAY!
Playing games is not only fun, it's affordable and can be done spontaneously. Hide and seek, treasure hunts and playing catch are all free and enjoyable. Here is a list of more family game ideas.