perfect mother’s day picnic with kids: easy planning tips!
May 01, 2024
Are you planning to make this Mother's Day unforgettable? Picture a delightful day outdoors (hopefully!) basking in the sun, surrounded by nature and your closest family members. Mother's Day is not just another date on the calendar—it's a heartfelt celebration of love, gratitude, and appreciation for the incredible Mothers and Mother figures who enrich our lives.
These extraordinary women juggle countless responsibilities and shower their families with unconditional love and support. What better way to honour and celebrate these efforts than by stepping away from the daily grind to focus on quality family time?
Picnics are an exceptional choice for such an occasion, offering a chance to relax, enjoy delicious food, and create lasting memories in a peaceful setting. When children are involved, careful planning is crucial to ensure that everyone—from the youngest to the oldest—enjoys the day without any stress.
This guide provides all the essentials for a perfectly packed Mother's Day picnic, guaranteed to keep adults and little ones happy and smiling throughout the day. Read on to learn how to craft an experience that celebrates Mum in the best way possible.
toddler eating tools
2-in-1 Suction Plate
Picnics should be fun, not messy! The 2-in-1 suction plate is a modular mealtime hero that grows and adapts with your child, making it perfect from their first feeds to their independent eating stages. This plate easily attaches to any flat surface with its strong silicone suction—press the centre to stick it down securely and pull the tab to remove it easily during mealtime. This feature significantly reduces mess, ensuring a more enjoyable and less stressful dining experience.
The plate comes with a removable divider and suction base, which adds versatility to its use. Whether your child is just learning to eat or has moved on to more complex meals, the three divided sections are ideal for portioning food and catering to fussy eaters. The divider lip edge directs food back onto the plate, minimising mess and waste. Additionally, the curved sides of the plate are perfect for easy scooping, supporting self-led feeding and helping little ones gain confidence in eating independently.
Designed for both safety and convenience, the plate is suitable for hot and cold foods and is microwave- and dishwasher-safe (top rack only). This makes preparing, serving, and cleaning up after meals incredibly easy. Made from durable PP and silicone, the 2-in-1 suction plate is built to last and withstand the rigours of toddler feeding. Importantly, it is BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, ensuring it's safe for your child to use daily.
Highly portable and easy to clean, this plate can be effortlessly tossed into your picnic bag, ready to make outdoor meals with your toddler as enjoyable as possible. With the 2-in-1 suction plate, you can focus on the picnic fun without worrying about the cleanup
ergonomic cutlery for self-feeding
Tiny hands require tools that are designed specifically for their needs. Our toddler-specific cutlery set has been crafted with the expertise of a leading paediatric occupational therapist to create the ideal self-feeding toolkit for tots. The set includes a uniquely shaped spoon and fork, each designed to make self-feeding under the sun a breeze for your little one.
The spoon features a deep scoop shape like a shovel, making it easier for toddlers to scoop up their food, even from a flat plate. Its angled handle encourages the correct hand-to-mouth positioning, helping to contain food within the spoon as your child practices bringing it to their mouth. This design results in more food entering their mouth and less ending up on their lap or the ground.
The fork, or "FLORKTM", is uniquely designed to fit the size and shapes of little mouths. Its curved, blunt prongs are gentler and safer on little mouths and gums, making it an excellent choice for toddlers. Each piece of cutlery is designed to assist kids in safely piercing and lifting food and enhance their eating skills and independence.
Moreover, this set comes complete with a handy travel case. This case keeps the utensils clean before mealtime when you're on the go and contains mess after eating, preventing soiling in nappy bags or handbags. Designed for children nine months and older, this cutlery set combines functionality with safety, making it an essential part of your toddler's mealtime adventures, both at home and away.
silicone bib
To compliment the ergonomic cutlery for your toddler, consider pairing it with our silicone bib, which is ideal for Mother's Day picnics. Our take-anywhere bib features a deep 'stay open' pocket to catch more food and liquids, ensuring your child stays cleaner and drier during the picnic. This clever design reduces the mess typically associated with meal times outdoors, allowing your little one to enjoy their food while minimising cleanup.
Made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone, the bib retains a smooth, non-stick surface, even when wet, making it incredibly easy to clean. Maintenance is hassle-free, whether you need to wipe it down quickly during the picnic or throw it in the dishwasher when you get home. It can also be rolled up and fastened, making it compact to store and transport, perfect for those picnic days when you move.
The bib is designed with comfort in mind. It features an easy-to-adjust closure that ensures a perfect fit, tapered shoulders for greater arm movement, and a smooth, cushioned edge for comfortable wear. Available in various beautiful contemporary colours, it's as stylish as practical, fitting seamlessly into your picnic setup.
This bib is a practical tool and an essential part of your picnic gear, especially suitable for babies starting at four months old. It's perfect for those first picnics and as your child grows and becomes more active during these family outings. Pairing this bib with our toddler-specific cutlery set ensures that your Mother's Day picnic is enjoyable, mess-free, and comfortable for your toddler, letting you focus more on relaxing and celebrating the day...
what to pack (food wise)
The b.box range of food storage products offers exceptional options for packing the perfect Mother's Day picnic. Whether you're planning a whole meal or just snacks, there's a solution for every need.
The lunchbox and mini lunchbox are ideal for sandwiches or finger foods, featuring customisable compartments for various food types and sizes. The snack box is perfect for smaller snacks or portions, keeping items like nuts, fruits, and small treats organised. The insulated food jar and its mini counterpart keep hot and cold foods warm, making them excellent for soups, mini sausages, or chilled desserts. The lunch tub offers a versatile solution for bulkier food items or salads requiring more space. In contrast, the insulated lunch bag ensures everything stays at the right temperature, is convenient for transport, and is stylish enough for any outing. Together, these b.box products create a seamless and enjoyable picnic experience, keeping fresh foods delicious and ready to enjoy under the sun.
A thoughtful selection of food can elevate your Mother's Day picnic experience. Start with the basics, like cheese and crackers, which provide a crunchy and satisfying base for everyone. To enhance this, consider adding a variety of cheeses such as cheddar for richness, gouda for a nutty flavour, or a creamy brie to add a touch of luxury. Pair these with whole grain and artisanal crackers to cater to all tastes.
Incorporate a range of fresh fruits and vegetables to keep the meal balanced and refreshing. Grape tomatoes, carrot sticks, and apple slices are excellent for their health benefits and ability to refresh the palate. Sliced capsicum, cucumber rounds, and celery sticks served with a light hummus or dip can also add variety and flavour.
Tim Tams are a delightful treat for a sweet touch, but why stop there? Consider baking some homemade goodies to add a personal touch to the picnic. Easy-to-make options could include cookies, lemon slices, or even simple banana bread. These treats are not only delicious but also travel well, making them perfect for outdoor settings.
To make the picnic even more unique, you could prepare a batch of homemade muffins or scones—blueberry, chocolate chip, or plain, depending on your preference. Another great option is to make some mini fruit tarts or cupcakes, which can be decorated to add a festive touch to the occasion.
Remember to bring a refreshing beverage to complement the meal. Iced tea, lemonade, or infused waters with slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber are excellent choices that keep everyone hydrated and happy. With our selection of drink bottles for every age and stage, staying hydrated has never been so easy.
staying hydrated
When planning a day outdoors, staying hydrated is crucial, especially if it involves playful activities or exploring. Our range of drink bottles offers perfect solutions for everyone in the family, ensuring hydration is convenient, stylish, and practical.
1L insulated flip top drink bottle
For adults, the 1L insulated flip-top drink bottle is an everyday essential, ideal for extended outings. It features triple-layer insulation that keeps liquids cold for up to 46 hours. The flip-top lid and stainless steel straw allow easy, free-flow drinking, while the flexible and durable carry handle makes transportation effortless. Its large opening facilitates easy fills and refills, accommodating liquids and ice cubes, ensuring you stay refreshed throughout the day. This bottle is easy to clean, dishwasher safe (top rack only), and free from BPA, Phthalates, and PVC.
award-winning sippy cup
For toddlers, our award-winning sippy cup features an innovative b.box weighted straw that moves with the liquid, allowing tots to drink from any angle and even lying down—perfect for transitioning from bottle/breastfeeding to a cup. The unique two-way valve ensures easy drinking and no leaks, even with warm water. Designed with easy-grip handles and a simple flip-top lid, it encourages toddlers to drink independently and confidently. It is available in various favourite colours with a premium matte finish.
unique big kids' 600ml drink bottle
The 600ml drink bottle for older children is tailored for kindy and school kids. Its unique triangle shape is designed specifically for little hands, making it easier for them to grip and manage. This bottle features a spill-proof bite valve straw top that prevents accidental spills and an easy push-button that pops the lid to keep the straw top hygienic. The robust carry handle allows easy carrying and removal from school bags. Its angled silicone straw enables kids to drink to the very last drop, staying hydrated all day long. This bottle is dishwasher safe (top rack only) and allows for customisation with removable bumpers, making it functional and fun for school-aged kids.
With these tailored options, our drink bottles cater to every family member, ensuring hydration is never a chore but a seamless part of your Mother's Day picnic or any outdoor adventure.
final tips for a successful mother's day picnic
1. plan ahead
Always check the weather forecast in advance and pick a location that's beautiful and child-friendly. Look for places with natural shade, like parks with big trees or picnic areas with shelters.
2. safety and comfort
Don't forget the essentials like sunscreen and hats to protect your family from the sun. An extra blanket adds comfort and can be used as a nap area for your toddler.
3. entertainment
Keep everyone entertained with simple and fun activities. Pack a frisbee, a cricket bat and ball, or even some board games. These are great for family bonding and will keep the energy high and joyful.A well-planned picnic can transform Mother's Day into an extraordinary outdoor adventure. With these tips, you'll be all set to create memorable moments that your family will cherish for years.
conclusion
As our guide to a perfect Mother's Day picnic concludes, remember that this special day celebrates the remarkable women who nurture and love us unconditionally. Whether you're spreading out a blanket in the lush grass of your favourite park or setting up a picnic table near the calming sounds of a stream, the proper preparation can turn a simple meal into an extraordinary day.
Utilising tools like the 2-in-1 suction plate and ergonomic cutlery ensures that even the youngest family members can easily participate in the meal, making the experience enjoyable for everyone. Packing your treats in versatile b.box food storage products like lunchboxes, snack boxes, and insulated food jars allows you to carry a variety of foods securely and at the perfect temperature.
Remember to stay hydrated with our innovative drink bottles, designed for all ages and needs, ensuring everyone remains refreshed throughout the day. And don't overlook the importance of planning for comfort and safety with sunscreen, hats, and an extra blanket for rest or play.
By embracing these tips and using the right products, your Mother's Day picnic will be a meal outdoors, a cherished memory, and a celebration of family and love. Here's to a day as marvellous and unique as the mums we honour!