Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love, and what better way to do that than spending time with the people you love the most? For parents with toddlers, romantic candlelit dinners might be off the cards for now, but a family Valentine’s Day picnic can be just as special. Maybe a warm Aussie afternoon, with a shady spot in the park, delicious things to eat, and your little ones giggling as they explore the outdoors with sweet curiosity is the perfect Valentine's date for now. Sounds perfect, right? Let Marmalade Lion help you plan an joyful Valentine’s Day picnic with your family.
Picking the Perfect Spot
The first step to planning your picnic is choosing the right location. Look for a family-friendly park or a nearby beach where the kids can play safely while you relax. Botanical gardens, nature reserves, or even your own backyard can also be great options. Make sure your spot has plenty of shade to keep everyone cool and comfortable.
If you’re heading to a public park, check if there are facilities like toilets, playgrounds, or barbecue areas to make the day even more convenient.
Packing the Essentials
When it comes to packing for a picnic with toddlers, preparation is key. Here’s a handy checklist –
Food and Drinks – Pack a mix of kid-friendly snacks and grown-up treats. Think sandwiches, fresh fruit, cheese, crackers, and some Aussie favourites like lamingtons or fairy bread for a festive touch. Don’t forget water bottles and maybe a thermos of tea or coffee for the adults.
Utensils and Wipes – Bring eco-friendly plates, cups, and cutlery, as well as plenty of wipes and napkins for those inevitable messes.
Sun Protection – Sunscreen, hats, and a portable shade like a beach umbrella or pop-up tent are non-negotiables in the Aussie sun.
Entertainment – Pack toys, books, or outdoor games to keep the kids entertained. Bubbles, frisbees, or a small ball can work wonders.
Comfort – This is where the Marmalade Lion play mat comes in. Our mats are an absolute lifesaver for outdoor picnics with young children.
Why Marmalade Lion Play Mats are a Must-Have
If you’ve ever tried having a picnic with toddlers, you’ll know the struggle of keeping everyone comfy and the food off the ground. Marmalade Lion play mats are designed with Aussie families in mind, and they tick all the boxes for an easy, stress-free picnic –
Durable and Waterproof – Marmalade Lion play mats have a waterproof coating, so you can lay them on damp grass or sandy beaches without worry. Spilled juice? No problem! Just wipe it clean.
Comfortable and Spacious – With their thick padding and generous size, these mats provide a soft surface for everyone to sit or lounge on. Perfect for little ones who need to stretch out for tummy time or a quick nap.
Stylish and Practical – The hand-illustrated designs add a touch of charm to your picnic setup, and they’re tough enough to withstand active toddlers and messy moments.
Portable – The mats roll up neatly and come with handy straps, making them easy to carry along with your other picnic gear.
A Marmalade Lion play mat ensures your family has a clean, comfortable base for all the Valentine’s Day fun. It’s one of those items you’ll wonder how you ever lived without!
Adding a Valentine’s Day Touch
Make your picnic extra special by adding a few Valentine’s-themed elements. Here are some ideas –
Decorations – Pack a few lightweight decorations like heart-shaped balloons, bunting, or a red-and-pink tablecloth to set the mood.
Themed Snacks – Cut sandwiches or fruit into heart shapes using cookie cutters, or bake some heart-shaped cookies with the kids the day before.
Craft Time – Bring along some paper, crayons, and stickers so your toddlers can make Valentine’s cards for each other or for Mum and Dad.
Storytime – Pack a couple of books about love or friendship to read together under the shade of a tree.
Keeping the Kids Happy
Toddlers are bundles of energy, and keeping them entertained is key to a successful picnic. Plan a mix of activities to suit their mood –
- Let them explore nature by collecting leaves, flowers, or pebbles.
- Play classic outdoor games like hide-and-seek or ring-around-the-rosy.
- Bring along a bubble machine for some endless giggles.
And if they’re ready for some quiet time, your Marmalade Lion mat is the perfect spot for cuddles and stories.
Wrapping Up the Day
As the sun starts to set and your little ones begin to tire, pack up at a leisurely pace. With the Marmalade Lion play mat’s waterproof surface, cleaning up is a breeze—just wipe it down and roll it up. Don’t forget to leave the area as you found it, disposing of rubbish responsibly.
On the drive home, you’ll likely have a car full of happy (and possibly sleepy) toddlers. And you’ll have made some wonderful memories of a Valentine’s Day spent celebrating love with your family.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all about grand romantic gestures. For Aussie parents with toddlers, it’s an opportunity to celebrate love in its purest form – family love. With a bit of planning, a touch of creativity, and the help of a trusty Marmalade Lion play mat, you can enjoy a beautiful picnic that’s fun, relaxing, and full of heart.
So this Valentine’s Day, embrace the chaos and the joy of family life. Put down your play mat, share some snacks, and bask in the love that makes every day special.
