Go on a picnic in your backyard - International Picnic Day!
Plan and host a backyard picnic: prepare simple snacks, set a blanket, invite family or stuffed animals, observe nature and practice table manners.
Step-by-step guide to go on a picnic in your backyard - International Picnic Day
Celebrate GLOBAL Picnic Fun on International Picnic Day!
Step 1
Choose a flat spot in your backyard where you want to have your picnic.
Step 2
Pick a time for your picnic today like after lunch or in the late afternoon.
Step 3
Invite family members to join or gather your favorite stuffed animals to sit with you.
Step 4
Ask an adult to help you prepare simple snacks.
Step 5
Pack the snacks and drinks into your basket or bag.
Step 6
Lay the blanket or sheet flat on the chosen picnic spot.
Step 7
Set out paper plates napkins and cups neatly on the blanket.
Step 8
Place the snacks and drinks on the blanket so everyone can reach them.
Step 9
Practice polite table manners like saying please and thank you before eating.
Step 10
Take a short quiet walk around the yard to look for birds bugs and interesting plants.
Step 11
Share a short story a joke or sing a song with your picnic friends.
Step 12
Put any food scraps and wrappers into the small trash bag when you finish eating.
Step 13
Fold up the blanket and put your picnic things back into the basket or bag.
Step 14
Share your finished picnic creation on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a picnic blanket, basket, or paper plates?
Use a clean sheet or tarp instead of a blanket, a backpack or tote bag in place of a basket, and washable plates or sturdy cardboard as substitutes for paper plates.
My blanket keeps slipping or wind blows napkins away — what should we do?
Choose a truly flat spot as instructed, weigh down the blanket corners with rocks or heavy items from your basket, and use cup lids or cover snacks to prevent spills and bugs when you set out paper plates, napkins, and cups.
How can I adapt this picnic for a toddler or for an older child?
For toddlers, follow 'Ask an adult to help you prepare simple snacks' and serve easy finger foods on spill-proof plates with close supervision, while older kids can pack the snacks and drinks into the basket, lead the short quiet walk, share a story or song, and post the finished picnic on DIY.org.
How can we make the picnic more special or educational?
Make an international-themed picnic by preparing a simple snack from another country, create a backyard scavenger checklist for the short quiet walk to find birds or plants, and take photos to share your finished picnic creation on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to go on a picnic in your backyard - International Picnic Day
Celebrate GLOBAL Picnic Fun on International Picnic Day!
3 Videos
Celebrate GLOBAL Picnic Fun on International Picnic Day!
12 Tips for the Perfect Picnic with Kids | How to Plan for the Day Trip with Kids | Easy Going Mom
What Are Some Picnic Ideas For Kids? - Raising A Toddler
Facts about outdoor activities for kids
🐦 Backyard picnics often attract common local birds like sparrows, robins, and finches—great for quick nature spotting.
🧸 Bringing a stuffed animal guest makes hosting practice playful and helps children learn polite social skills.
🥪 Sandwiches became picnic favorites because they're portable, shareable, and easy for kids to eat outdoors.
🌳 Spending time eating outside can boost mood and attention—fresh air and sunshine help the brain relax.
🧺 The word "picnic" comes from the French "piquenique," and it entered English in the 18th century.
How do I plan and host a backyard picnic for International Picnic Day with my child?
What materials do I need for a kid-friendly backyard picnic?
What ages is a backyard picnic suitable for and how can I adapt it?
What are the benefits, safety tips, and fun variations for a backyard picnic?
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