June

“PACK A PICNIC”

Welcome summer weather! Spring has given us blue skies, warm breezes and hot lazy sunshine! Time for us all to enjoy the weather in the great outdoors! We can enjoy the outdoors in many ways but a picnic is a simple activity that we can enjoy at the park, on the beach or simply in our own backyard. Packing a picnic is a great way to enjoy a carefree summer day!

Remember to read through the entire activity to make sure you have all the items you need to make your picnic enjoyable. And don’t forget to ask for help when you need it. A basket is nice for packing a picnic but a decorated bag or box will do!

PLANNING

What is your favorite time of day to be outdoors? What foods or snacks do you like to have at that time? A bagel, a sandwich, yogurt or fruit? What could you use to pack your picnic in? Let’s plan an outdoor breakfast!

Take a look in the kitchen to see what breakfast items you may have in stock. Make a list of what you may need. Ask a friend or family member to accompany you to do some shopping, or maybe help you find a basket.

“Packing to Go”

Once you have everything you are ready to start. Take the basket you have chosen and put a dish towel or a placemat inside the basket to act as a liner for your breakfast treats.

Now you are ready to pack the foods you have chosen. Add your container of orange juice, your banana or whatever fresh fruit you like. If you have chosen a muffin or a bagel have it cut before you pack it. Ask for help if you need it during this step. Wrap your muffin or bagel before putting it into your basket.

You may want to add a container of yogurt too. If so, remember to include some other necessary items such as spoons, straws and napkins to make your outdoor breakfast a success.

After your items are packed you may want to cover your goodies with another kitchen towel or fancy cloth napkin—especially if your basket is open on top.

You are now ready to go!

Take your picnic basket and pick a spot under a tree or anywhere the sunshine is bright!

Helpful Hints:
You might want to take an old blanket to sit on outside. Don’t forget to protect yourself from the direct sunlight by wearing a hat or using sunscreen. Bring a book to read or a friend whose company you enjoy.

Remember you can pack a light lunch or snacks to have outdoors, your picnic basket can be full of ideas for outdoor fun! Watch the sun come up or watch the sunset. Just don’t invite the ants!