Family Picnicking 101: Let the Fun Begin

Every parent with children of differing age ranges knows that a family get-together such as a picnic can quickly turn unpleasant. We also know, however, just how important the experience of bonding is to a family. It enables children to feel safe with the people closest to them and to understand that family is always there no matter what. So for your next family picnic, try these ideas and tricks to keep things uplifting and moving forward.

Games, galore! Above all else, once your picnic basket is packed with awesome eats and you have a beautiful location reserved, pack your games. Not just one game but many games. Board games, portable game systems, card games, spelling games, charade paper and pencils--they are all relatively easy to stash in the trunk of your vehicle and even when the kids are not totally stoked about them, they usually wind up being a positive experience. Lay out on a comfy blanket and game away. To keep your games safe and organized, place board games with worn boxes in plastic storage containers.

Fitness and Fun! Sports equipment is another great selection for packing the trunk with. Electronics and Board games are amusing but they will only go so far, so when the idea of sitting with trinkets and buttons has worn out its welcome, invite the children to play some tag football or volleyball out on the grass. Your local sporting goods store, as well as department stores like Target and K Mart have great all-in-one sets complete with balls, nets, rackets and a pump. You could also get table top games like air hockey.

The Tradition of Reading. Even though it seems impossible sometimes, requiring the children to take a moment out for a story can truly be a rewarding and positive experience. Especially when it's a gruesome story about Pirates! Try the book Incredible Pirate Tales which is a collection of short Pirate stories published by The Lion Press. Sift through the stories, of course, to pick the best suited for your family, especially if you have very young ones. Spicing it up with this kind of literature, however, is a great way to remind kids that the outdoors, family and reading are all a pleasure. You could also read to them from The Book of Dragons by Michael Hague--an excellent adventure book on Dragons.

Puppets for Little Fingers! For your family of young children, buying some animal hand puppets from your local dollar store is an entertaining way to tell a story. You could also make some hand puppets from match-missing socks by using buttons for eyes, pipe cleaners and craft sticks for mouths and hands, and colored markers for decorating. Ask the kids to name each puppet as you sneakily pull them one by one from your picnic basket. Allow the kids to discuss each one as it comes out and listen as a story develops!

With a great basket, some excellent picnicking recipes and these tips on entertaining your kids at a picnic, we at Picnic-Basket.com hope that your next picnic is the most amazing yet.