It’s National Picnic Month, so that means it’s time to dust
off that picnic blanket at the top of the closet and pack some treats for a fun
day away from electronics and obligations. Here are some ways to make outdoor
eating a fun experience for all involved.
Make Food Fun
Kids love the idea of eating outside, but they might not be
as excited if they’re getting the same lunch they’d get inside on a rainy day.
So, if you have the time and energy, try presenting picnic items in a fun way. You
could cut a sandwich into fun shapes, create your own Lunchable with sliced
ham, cheese and crackers, or offer fruit salad ice
cream cones.
Find Shade
Your picnic will be much more enjoyable for all involved if
you can find a place to lay out your blanket or set up your picnic table that
is out of direct sunlight. Not only will this cut down on sunburns, but it will
also keep food from melting or going bad as quickly. If you are going to a park
where there’s not a lot of natural shade, you can pack a canopy or find a
covered picnic table.
Bring Additional Entertainment
If you’re hoping for an enjoyable family day, then it might
be a good idea to pack some additional ways to entertain your kids. While a
nearby playground will do the trick for a while, you might need a back up to
keep them from cutting your time short. This could be anything from bubbles to
frisbees to water guns. You can even create a box or container of items that
are only used for picnics and days out at the park. This will make them even
more exciting when you pull them out.
Bring Clean-Up Supplies
If your children are like mine, they will not only get their
lunch all over their face, but they will be slathered in whatever elements are
found in nature by the end of the day. For everyone’s sake, bring clean-up
supplies like baby wipes, plastic grocery sacks, extra pairs of shoes or
clothes, and a few towels.
Leave the Park the Way You Found it
Not only is it National Picnic Month, but it is also National Recreation and Parks Month. This is the perfect opportunity to teach your children about keeping parks and outdoor areas clean and well-kept. Throw away trash, obey posted signs and leave the park the way you found it.
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Jessa is the Editor-in-Chief of Hooray for Family and the mom of three energetic children. She has a BA in Mass Communication/Journalism from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, and is a long-time resident of Central Texas. When she isn't writing and editing, she enjoys playing board games with her kids, teaching Sunday school and channeling her creativity into craft projects.
