How to plan the ULTIMATE mommy picnic with your little ones.
The Picnic has become the new trend since the Covid-19 Pandemic began. The enjoyment of the outdoors was our only salvation beyond the walls of quarantine at home. “Picnic Party!” is the anthem of this new toddler and preschool generation.
Here is how to plan the perfect toddler Picnic!
Plan the right location.
Pick a place that has a huge playground, jungle gym, swings…the works! This doubles as an excuse to wear them out at the same time. Some parks even have a lightly paved walking trail. Let the little ones walk around and have a scavenger hunt, while you get in a few steps. Its a win for all. A few parks even have outdoor shopping malls within walking distance. Pick a place that might have an ice-cream shop, or cupcakery nearby. That is the ultimate cherry on top, to get a sweet dessert after the picnic.
Bring a blanket unless you plan for a picnic table.
Bring a sturdy picnic blanket (some even come made with a water resistant tarp sewn onto the back side). If you don’t have an official picnic blanket, use a sturdy quilted blanket and simply throw it in the wash when you get home. I still suggest bringing a light blanket for the table, as this prevents splinters.
Bug repellent, sunscreen and cheap fan if it is hot.
Nothing ruins an outdoor picnic like bees, flies, and gnats. You never know if the shampoo you used that morning, or lotion you picked that day, will attract these little flying pests. So invest in a purse sized bottle. Likewise, bring sun screen and a cheap battery operated fan if it is hot outside.
Bubbles! Bubbles! Bubbles! and more Bubbles!
I am so thankful to God for Bubbles! It is the cheapest, yet most rewarding gift that keeps on giving. Their smiles, their laughter, and most of all their unapologetic excitement at the sight of bubbles is just magnificent! Stock up on any bubble products that you can find. There are bubble wands, battery operated bubble machines, and even adult sized bubble wands. Just remember, if all else fails at least you brought bubbles.
“If all else fails, at least you brought bubbles” - Chelsea
The Games
Games aren’t necessary since kids have their own way of creating fun. If you are doing a picnic play date, or gathering together with friend, then games are a good way to break the ice for the shy youngsters. Here are a few easy ones:
Duck Duck Goose
Freeze dance
Red light-Green light
I Spy
Simon Says
Play music (On your phone or mini speaker)
Enough said. Play the music that you and your family enjoy. We like to play light contemporary Christian music. Its soothing, its mellow, and fills my spirit up. The kids dance, and sway sometimes, and most importantly its a calming undertone that keeps me centered while they loudly and happily play and run around me.
Toys
No need to haul the whole toy bin. This is more for the toys that are too loud to play in the house. I’m talking about the toys that others had purchased for your kids, that you never got the chance to decline…Haha. Here is your chance honey! Bring out the hand held pianos, hand held drums, flutes, maracas…everything! Let the little ones make as much noise as they want under the morning sky.
Finally… The Brunch
I have often simply placed yesterdays left overs in a food storage container and I’ve warmed them up just before we leave the house. Its a good warm meal, which makes it easier for them to nap later. On the contrary, there have also been times, where I’ll pack light cold snacks, with the intention of eating a hot lunch when we get home. Its all up to you mama! Do what works for you and your family. Just have fun in the process! Check out my article on Healthy toddler snacks for a few picnic meal ideas.