Top Tips for Picnics with Babies
With sunshine and warm weather, summer is the perfect time to get yourself and your baby out of the house to enjoy some fresh air and green spaces. And the ideal pastime to tie it all together is the classic picnic, a fun activity for all the family! However, planning a picnic with a baby or young toddler in tow can be a bit daunting, so we have compiled our top tips so that you can be prepared and focus on enjoying the time with your child!
Location Scouting
Fresh air and al fresco dining can be enjoyed almost anywhere, as long as your location feels clean and safe. Look for park spaces with a play area for kids that you can set up nearby, especially if you’re taking a toddler or more young children along with you. If you’re unsure how to negotiate travelling and unknown factors in public, remember that your location doesn’t have to be somewhere fancy, it can be in your own garden! The most important thing is to find a spot with good shade so that you can settle yourself down without having to constantly move to escape the sun’s rays.
Think Essentials
Think about your baby’s usual needs in the time period you plan to be out for - if they’re still in nappies, bring a couple extra, or if they’re teething make sure to pack their favourite teether - you can even keep it in the ice box with the cool snacks and drinks for extra soothing coolness! Once you’ve packed for your baby, you just need to remember the picnic essentials. Our Animal snack mat has 3 fun mini plates that are great for portioning.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be extravagant! Remember, things might get messy - and that's not a bad thing! As long as you remember your blanket, snacks, and drinks, you're all set.
Pack Smart
Though less traditional, tote bags are a blessing when it comes to picnics - the flexible space and long handles make them easy to throw over your shoulder, and you can even carry multiple totes at a time! And speaking of carrying, anyone with a small child (or children!) will know that no matter how much you try to keep your eyes on their belongings, something will inevitably go missing. Plan ahead for this by investing in Multi-Use Product Holders to secure the essentials - such as water bottles - onto a bag or pram for easy access. If your child has a beloved toy or teether, consider a Soother Clip so that you can strap their belongings directly onto your child’s clothes!
Distraction Tactics
Parks and green spaces have an abundance of wildlife and plants that can mesmerise your child for hours! However, your child might decide on the day that they don’t want to engage with their surroundings. This is fine, let them explore at their own pace, just make sure to bring along their favourite book or toy so that if they do lose interest in the nature around them, you won’t need to immediately pack up and leave!