Going on a day out, or even having a picnic in the park isn’t as easy with kids as when you and your partner were just a couple. There’s more to think about. Safety, comfort, emergency potty needs, potential bug bites – and the list only gets longer from there.
Kids haven’t developed enough survival instincts to survive in a mostly unsupervised setting. And taking your eyes off those adorable little troublemakers for just a sec? That’s a big NO! It doesn’t take a Mum to know that.
Babies are innocent, and just learning about the world. You want their adorable little selves to have meaningful formative experiences. To go out in nature and sense the world through their own, still almost clear, imaginations. But it’s easy to want, and harder to get done.
For anyone who isn’t a parent yet, or haven’t cared for young children with very limited external support, wouldn’t understand the tiny war Mums and Dads strategize for before doing the most mundane things with babies and toddlers. Even simple things like having a picnic.
For adults, a picnic is the most random day out, that you don’t need to prepare much for (unless, of course, it’s a fancy date or something). And getting back home, there’s hardly any cleanup. You can throw most cutlery and Tupperware in the dishwasher, and the picnic blanket in the laundry. Then, wipe the basket out. And…you’re done!
With children by your side, the laundry post picnic is nearly everything. The picnic blanket (obviously), the bibs, soiled clothes and socks (possibly), and maybe even several nappies. None of these stains are easy to take out either.
Even with the chaos, helping build a fun set of experiences for your kids in NON-NEGOTIABLE! At Marmalade Lion, something we care about deeply is giving new families an easier time with weights of parenting. Especially with the parts about guaranteeing your child’s comfort and cleaning up messes.
If you’ve been following us, you would’ve heard about our Expect-A-Spill collection, that makes every cleanup as easy as a wipe or a wash – Because, spills WILL happen.
Our baby and toddler care items include a few superhero items to make your picnic with kids…a picnic in the park.
Marmalade Lion’s Checklist for Picnics with Toddlers!
- Splat Mats
- Food Smocks
- And Day Bags from the Expect-A-Spill collection
and
- Marmalade Lion’s SPF 50+ Adjustable Sun Hats
The special Expect-A-Spill lining is a non-toxic, durable (but easily bio-degradable in the right conditions), and waterproof lining put together by the brilliant parents at Marmalade Lion using the eco-friendly TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane) and 100% organic cotton. The material is super-easy to wipe down. In the event of bigger messes, you can simply wash any Expect-A-Spill product on a cold cycle and air-dry. They will come out totally stain-free, and ready for another round of rough-and-tumble use. Your post-picnic cleanup will be an actual breeze, with Expect-A-Spill by your side.
Our collection of comfy sun hats is no stranger to spills and rough handling either. Also, equipped with Expect-A-Spill, they clean out in a single laundry cycle. But our sun hats come with extra powers. They are adjustable, and durable, so your little one can use the same hat even until they turn 5-6 years of age – and maybe a little more, until 8. The organic cotton makes it super comfy, and has a SPF 50+ rating – the highest SPF rating a fabric can have.
With this checklist, having an easy-peasy picnic out with the family is not so difficult anymore. That said, we’d like you to be totally ready for anything that comes your way when you’re out with little ones.
Check out the complete list of less-thought-of items you’ll need to take on a picnic with babies and toddlers.
The Essential Picnic Mat Checklist – 06 Less Thought of Items to Pack for a Picnic with Bubs and Tots
When planning a family picnic, especially with little ones in tow, it’s important to think beyond the usual essentials like food, drinks, and a blanket. To guarantee both safety and comfort for bubs, here are six often-overlooked items that can make a significant difference.
A Complete First Aid Kit
While it’s common to think of bringing snacks and games, a first aid kit is essential for any outing with children. Kids are prone to minor injuries such as scrapes, cuts, and insect bites. A well-stocked first aid kit should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, hydrocortisone cream, and an antihistamine for allergic reactions. Including a digital thermometer and children’s pain reliever can also be crucial in managing unexpected fevers or pain. Having these items readily available ensures that minor incidents can be promptly addressed, keeping the day pleasant and worry-free.
A-Z Sun Protection Gear
While sunscreen is a common item, some sun protection gear could be forgotten. This includes UV-protective clothing, sunglasses specifically designed for children, and maybe have a quick-setup tent on standby for unexpected changes in weather. UV rays can be harmful, and prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn or more serious long-term skin damage. Shade is often limited during picnics, so these items are vital. Additionally, portable sunshades or pop-up tents can provide necessary shelter from the sun – or sudden rain – guaranteeing your children have a cool and safe place to rest.
DIY Portable Hand Washing Station
Sanitising wipes and hand sanitizers are useful, but nothing beats the cleanliness of running water. A portable hand washing station can be a game-changer, particularly when picnicking in remote areas without facilities. A simple setup involves a large water jug with a spigot, a basin to catch water, liquid soap, and paper towels. This allows children to wash their hands before eating and after playing, reducing the risk of ingesting harmful germs and ensuring they stay clean and comfortable throughout the picnic.
Non-Toxic Insect Repellent and Bite Relief
Insect repellent can go overlooked, specially if your outing is a short one. But it is crucial in areas where mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs are prevalent. And, let’s be honest, we never know if we’ll stick to schedule or take longer to return home. Choose a repellent that is safe for children, preferably one with natural ingredients if possible. Additionally, bringing along insect bite relief can be very helpful. Products containing ingredients like aloe vera, baking soda, or hydrocortisone can soothe itching and discomfort from bites, making sure your children remain comfortable and itch-free during and after the picnic.
Emergency Contact and Medical Information
In the excitement of a family outing, it’s easy to forget essential documents. Carry a small laminated card or a digital copy on your phone with emergency contact numbers, your child’s medical information, and any allergies they might have. This information can be crucial in the event of an emergency, providing quick access to critical details. Ensure that all adults in your party know where this information is stored. This preparation can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re in a crisis or remote location far from immediate help.
Extra Clothing and Comfort Items
Weather can be unpredictable, and children often get messier than expected. Packing extra clothing, including layers for warmth, can help manage unexpected temperature drops or spills. Including comfort items like a favourite blanket or stuffed animal can also help children feel secure and happy, particularly if they become tired or overwhelmed. Having familiar items on hand can make it easier to soothe and comfort them, ensuring that their experience remains positive and enjoyable.
While the fun and food are at the focus of any family picnic planning, these less-thought-of items are essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of babies and toddlers. A first aid kit, sun protection gear, portable hand washing station, insect repellent and bite relief, emergency contact and medical information, and extra clothing and comfort items might seem secondary, but they can significantly improve your preparedness during any family outing. By preparing thoroughly, you can make sure that your children are well-protected and comfortable.
Now, everyone can relax and enjoy the outing to the fullest.
And, There You Have It!
That’s our complete guide to staying ever-prepared for any situation with little ones when you’re outdoors – not just picnics. It seems like a lot. And, yes, it IS a lot……..
The good news is, except for the DIY portable handwashing station, the rest of the items on this list can always be ready to go in day bag or two. It’s something that you can take your time to fully pack once, and use it on a day-to-day basis. From there, all you’ll need to do is restock any items that get used up.
Let’s be honest, it’s the 3rd decade of the 21st century! Parenting doesn’t need to be as difficult as it was for our Mums and our Mums’ Mums. Thinking smart is the fashion, and Marmalade Lion is here to help.
