This ‘Perfect Backyard Picnic For Toddlers’ post contains Amazon affiliate links.
We LOVE picnics! During the summer, our family will often pack up for picnic adventures at our local playground, the beach, or even the theme park where we have season passes. (Have you seen the price of food at those places!?!) But, living in Minnesota means our warm-weather “picnic season” feels way too short. So we make the most of every sunny day while we can!
One of the best things about picnics? You don’t actually have to pack up and leave home to enjoy one. Some of our favorite picnic memories happen right in our own backyard! (Like the time the kids looked up and saw an opossum in the tree right above their heads! They still talk about that day and it was years ago.)
Creating a backyard picnic for toddlers is such an easy way to encourage outdoor play, spark imaginative fun, and spend quality time together. And all without ever leaving the yard if you don’t want.
Start With the Perfect Picnic Spot
The first step is choosing the perfect cozy picnic area. Whether it’s under a shady tree (my favorite!), on the patio, or right in the grass; creating a comfortable spot is key. Consider adding a blanket, pillows, and easy finger foods can make it feel extra special for your little one.
And if you want to make it even more fun, the Step2 My First Picnic Basket is the perfect addition! This adorable playset allows little ones the chance to pack up their own pretend picnic essentials. It’s perfect for encouraging imaginative play before your real picnic even begins. From plates and utensils to play food, it gives kids everything they need to “host” their own backyard gathering.
Add Kid-Friendly Seating
While utilizing a blanket while at the beach may be ideal; at home, consider adding the Step2 Sun & Fun Picnic Table with Umbrella to your space! Toddlers love having their own special place to sit, eat, and play. And this toddler-sized table is perfect for outdoor lunches, snack breaks, arts and crafts, and more.
The built-in umbrella provides much-needed shade on warm summer days. I also love that it’s sturdy, yet lightweight enough to move around the yard when needed. Also, our patio ends up in the sun most of the afternoon so having the coverage from this umbrella is a must have when that’s where we’re playing. Plus, the bright, cheerful design makes it feel like a real summer setup made just for them.
Keep the Snacks/Meal Simple
When it comes to food in the summer, simple is always the safest way to go! The best toddler picnic foods are easy, mess-friendly, and fun to eat. Some of our picnic favorites include:
- Fruit snacks
- Fresh fruit like watermelon, grapes, or strawberries
- Cheese cubes – I get mine from our local Aldi store.
- Crackers – graham crackers, teddy grahams, etc.
- Mini sandwiches – our youngest LOVES homemade uncrustables!
- Veggie sticks
- Yogurt pouches
- Homemade Cookies (Try these Apple Cinnamon Cookies or PB Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies — both are family favorites!)
Using colorful plates or allowing kids the option to “serve” their own pretend and real food alongside the Step2 picnic basket can make picnic time even more exciting.
Make It More Than Just a Picnic
A backyard picnic can easily turn into a full afternoon of fun. After snack time, keep the adventure going with simple activities. I shared 25 Affordable Or Free Preschool Activities For Your Backyard {+ Homemade Giant Bubbles Recipe} to help you get planning. But here’s a quick list to start with:
- Bubble blowing
- Sidewalk chalk
- Water table play
- Nature scavenger hunts (Easy Free Printable Toddler Scavenger Hunt or Free Printable Scavenger Hunt For Big Kids)
- Story time outdoors
- Pretend restaurant or tea party games
Why We Love These Step2 Picnic Toys For A Backyard Picnic
I’ve been a fan of Step2 for decades. As a former daycare provider, foster mom, and mom to six, their products have stood the test of time. They are well made, engaging, and fun.
And the combination of pretend play with the picnic basket and real outdoor dining with the picnic table helps build creativity, social skills, and independent play. What makes these two Step2 favorites stand out is how well they work together. The My First Picnic Basket sparks imagination and pretend play, while the Sun & Fun Picnic Table with Umbrella creates a practical, kid-sized space for real-life fun.
Together, these toys help transform an ordinary afternoon into a summer memory kids will love! So, if you’re looking for an easy summer activity for younger kids; a backyard picnic is a great choice. It’s one of the simplest ways to create meaningful moments and lifetime memories. Add in a little imagination, some tasty snacks, and a couple of fun Step2 toys, and you’ve got the recipe for the perfect summer day!
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