Make this summer even more memorable by making the family picnic more fun. After working out the menu, taking the time to identify some fun activities and bringing any necessary items to make those plans a successful reality can be all that is needed to make this the best summer ever! Kites, scavenger hunts, Frisbee games, tug-of-war, sack races and 3-legged races are just a few easy to organize activities that will have everyone talking about your event long after the sunburns have faded.
In fact, one sure way to make summer picnic more pleasant for everyone is to pack items that can make the difference between a day of family and fun, and a day of discomfort. Common items to include are a basic first aid kit, sunscreen, antihistamine pills, and a sting kit - just in case. You'll also want to remember to bring a waterproof, disposable camera or two, to document the event and any noteworthy occurrences.
Go Fly A Kite!
The wisdom of this admonition lies in the simple delight of watching your bird rise with the wind, tugging the line, and carrying your spirits with it. Flying kites has long been a summer tradition, and with good reason. Single line kites are affordable, simple to build, and they are one of the few activities that cross generations without putting anyone at risk. Grandparents and grandchildren can work together to build their kites and then swap stories as they watch their kites dance across the sky.
Burn Some Of That Energy
One problem with large gatherings is that the youngsters often have more energy than the adults. A few well organized activities can burn up some of that youthful exuberance without anyone getting hurt or losing their temper. These activities can also teach important life lessons, but the kids will never even notice because they'll be having so much fun! Sack races, 3-legged races, and squirt gun battles require very little investment of time or money. Rice sacks work perfectly for the sack race and any scarf or belt can be used to create a 3-legged race. Squirt guns are inexpensive during the summer months and they provide the added benefit of helping to keep the children cooled off in the summer heat.
Family Fun
Family gatherings often include different branches of the family, making this a great time for a game of tug-of-war. A simple rope can be found at any hardware store, but be sure to add knots every few feet to prevent rope burn. A scarf tied to the middle can be used to determine the "winner" after everyone has tugged and pulled and teased as best they can. Additionally, scavenger hunts, while requiring more effort ahead of time, can be a great way to get the family interacting or working as teams. You can even buy inexpensive blue ribbons to award to the winning team!
Your picnic will be a wonderful way to share stories and experiences, to see how the children are growing, and to break bread with those you love. Picnics are also a time for outdoor fun, making things like kites, Frisbees, and a few squirt guns an excellent way to keep everyone entertained.
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