Hobbies And Interests
Kite Flying
The typical spot for a picnic is in a grassy field. This allows space to lay out blankets and serve food. If the field is big enough, it also allows space for kite flying. Bring along a kite or two on a picnic with kids, so they can run around and enjoy nature while playing with a toy.
Board Games
Just because picnics take place outside does not mean you cannot play indoor games while on a picnic. Bring along a board game on your next picnic to play on your blanket or picnic table. Be sure to choose a game that has a heavy board and pieces. Games that require paper or cards are not suitable for picnics. If the day is windy, the paper, light pieces, board or cards could blow away.
Animal Watching
A picnic is an opportune time to watch animals. Animals such as birds and squirrels do not avoid humans as much as larger animals, so you should be able to spot them without help. However, some animals will stick to the woods and avoid your picnic area. You can spot these animals and get close-ups of less timid animals by bringing along a pair of binoculars on your picnic.
Races
Races provide kids with physical activity and fun. On a picnic, races will help everyone build up an appetite before sitting down to eat. Have a spur of the moment race at the picnic site or bring along sacks or rope to have a sack race or three-legged race. Pillowcases are the right size for kids to have a sack race. Have the kids stand in the pillowcases and try to race to the finish line by hopping in their cases. For a three-legged race, pick two kids per team, then tie the right leg of one child from each team to the left leg of his teammate.
If you do not have the materials for a sack or three-legged race, you can deviate from a typical footrace by having a wheelbarrow race. Pair kids up into teams of two for a wheelbarrow race. One kid will hold the other's feet while she uses her hands to hold herself up and move forward during the race.