10 Tips for Successful Backyard Picnics

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Here are ideas for keeping kids entertained at your picnic

By Catherine Robertson

For many families, finding inexpensive forms of entertainment to pass summer days is a must, and a simple picnic can be an economical adventure right in your own backyard! You needn’t go far in order to experience the joy of a family picnic together. Anytime is picnic time when you can do it right at home, and there is very little planning involved. Here are ten ideas to keep backyard picnicking fun, fresh and exciting this summer.

1. Theme picnics are a great idea for families with young children. For example why not “go on safari” by taking some favourite stuffed animals outside and setting them up among plants and trees in the yard. The children can take turns spotting or photographing the animals as they venture on safari.  

2. If you have a small kiddie pool or are lucky enough to have a larger pool, bring beach toys, an umbrella, wear sunglasses and bathing suits, bring plenty of sunscreen, and enjoy mealtime poolside in the backyard.  

3. A puppet show is the perfect way to add an element of entertainment to your picnic. Use your picnic blanket as the backdrop for the stage, and have children decorate paper bags as colourful puppets or bring some favourites along! It’s outdoor theatre at its finest.

4. Bug patrollers can bring a jar and collect a little insect friend to catch, observe and release.

5. A backyard birdwatching session also brings a new element of fun and adventure to picnic time (bring binoculars, a bird identification book, small bag of birdseeds to scatter.) See which birds your children can recognize.

 6. Food themes are a good way to expose your children to new things in a fun and creative way. Try having a picnic with a Mexican, Asian or European theme. If your family already shares a favourite international dish, start there and work with that as the basis.

7. Simple games and activities are another delightful way to amuse picnic guests.  Tents or forts made with lawn chairs and towels or blankets are a sure way to amuse younger kids. Simple outdoor games such as a scavenger hunt will occupy children while the picnic is set up. Alternatively, assign youngsters easy yet helpful tasks such as setting out the food or arranging place settings. They will most likely be pleased to help.

8. For the menu, offer some yummy and healthy finger foods that children love. Little sandwiches, fresh fruits and veggies cut into fun shapes, cheese and crackers, muffins and cookies are all great choices. By involving your family in the preparation they will be much more keen to eat what’s been packed.

9. Make it a neighbourhood event and invite a few friends to come as well. It may even start a tradition of a rotating picnic or supper club.

10. Most of all, keep it fun. Children love new adventures and if you show enthusiasm for something, chances are they will too.