Educational and sustainable spring picnics

Once they learn the word "picnic" and understand its meaning, it becomes a favorite of any child. After all, who doesn't enjoy a fresh meal outdoors?

For children, a picnic represents much more than just a different meal: it implies quality time with family and friends in a different setting, allows them to ignore some of the etiquette rules imposed every day, and above all, it also means eating tempting things that are only eaten on special occasions!

But it can (and should) be an educational activity, where we take advantage of being outdoors to talk about preserving the environment, highlighting the importance of keeping our picnic area clean, or even the relevance of choosing sustainable materials to wrap or transport the food/drink we bring.

This exercise begins at home and can be done together with younger children. By being involved in the preparation, they take on greater responsibility for their choices.

Avoid, for example, carrying water or drinks in plastic bottles and opt for reusable thermal bottles which, in addition to being cute, are environmentally friendly and allow you to keep drinks cold and/or hot for several hours.

The new thermal bottles are ideal for this purpose and can serve as the bottle your child takes to school, accompanies them on daily walks, trips, or bike rides. You have plenty to choose from: steel or plastic bottles, with or without a straw, with greater or lesser capacity, various designs, among many options.

Similarly, avoid carrying containers in plastic bags. If you don't have a traditional picnic basket, opt for reusable bags or, if you need to keep food fresh, use lunchboxes, thermal bags, or backpacks.

For kids, these types of lunchboxes are ideal because, being spacious, they allow you to carry not only a thermos, but also little boxes with your favorite snacks and other treats. The hardest part will be choosing the style of the lunchbox and what goes inside!

Meals

Yes, picnics are synonymous with hot dogs, and that's always a sure bet to please the kids. Hot dog buns (or another type), potato sticks, a can of sausage, and sauce are the basic recipe for success at any outdoor meal.

However, it's not the healthiest option, so you can vary your picnic menu by alternating this type of meal with healthier alternatives such as:

- tuna, chicken, vegetable wraps

- Chickpea salad with tuna, boiled egg, and sliced ​​olives.

- lettuce, tomato, dried fruit and fruit salad

- Couscous with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, corn, and sesame seeds.

- quiches, tarts, croquettes or filled pastries

Opt for packaging everything with reusable paper and don't forget to always bring fresh fruit, natural juices, and water to stay hydrated. In the current context, it's also important to be aware of these hygiene tips from the DGS (Directorate-General of Health) so that you can have fun, but safe picnics! Whether in the park, on the beach, or even on your balcony/garden at home, don't miss out on picnicking and having fun with your family!