When it comes to planning a picnic for kids, the food can be one of the trickiest parts. You want something that’s not only easy to pack but also fun and nutritious.
Over the years, I’ve discovered some fantastic picnic food ideas that will have the kids excited to eat, without making you sweat over complicated recipes.
In this post, I’ll share my go-to picnic food ideas for kids, and I’ll even suggest some affiliate links to help you shop for the essentials…
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Picnic food ideas for kids
1. Mini Sandwiches
Mini sandwiches are a picnic classic and for a good reason.
They’re simple to make, easy to eat, and versatile enough to cater to different tastes.
I love making little sandwiches with a variety of fillings, like:
- Turkey and Cheese: A simple yet tasty combo that even picky eaters enjoy.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly: Always a hit, and you can use whole grain bread for a healthier twist.
- Veggie and Hummus: For a vegetarian option, I spread some hummus on whole wheat bread and load it up with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and lettuce.
Tip: You can cut these sandwiches into fun shapes with cookie cutters to make them even more exciting!
Shop for sandwich supplies: Mini Sandwich Cutter Set – a perfect tool to turn ordinary sandwiches into fun shapes.
2. Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an instant hit with kids.
I love using a variety of colorful fruits like strawberries, melon, pineapple, and grapes.
The kids love picking their favorite fruits off the skewers, and it’s a great way to get them to eat a variety of fruits without any complaints.
Shop for fruit kabob skewers: Wooden Skewers for Kabobs – durable and safe for kids.
Related Article: Picnic food ideas for two
3. Cheese and Crackers
A simple yet satisfying picnic snack is a platter of cheese and crackers.
I often include some slices of cheddar, mozzarella, or string cheese, and pair them with whole grain crackers.
You can also add some deli meats like ham or turkey if you want to make it more filling. This snack is great for grazing and pairs well with fresh fruit.
Shop for cheese and cracker sets: Cheese Platter Set – everything you need to create the perfect spread!
4. Veggie Cups with Dip
If you want your kids to eat more veggies, try making individual veggie cups.
I use clear plastic cups and fill them with sliced veggies like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers.
Then, I add a small portion of ranch dressing or hummus at the bottom for dipping. The kids get their own little cup, making it fun and mess-free!
Shop for veggie cups: Reusable Snack Cups – eco-friendly and perfect for portioning snacks.
5. Yogurt Parfaits
Yogurt parfaits are another fun and customizable option. I layer yogurt with granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
The best part is that you can easily customize them to each child’s preferences.
Plus, the kids love digging through the layers with their spoons.
Shop for yogurt parfait supplies: Glass Parfait Cups – for a more eco-friendly and stylish parfait experience.
6. Homemade Granola Bars
Granola bars are a great option for a quick, no-fuss snack. You can make them at home with oats, honey, nuts, and dried fruit.
I love making a batch the night before and cutting them into small, kid-sized pieces.
They’re portable, filling, and can easily be customized based on your kids’ taste preferences.
Shop for granola bar ingredients: Organic Granola Ingredients – the perfect base for your homemade bars.
Related Article: Sleepover Things To Do With Your Bestie
7. Frozen Popsicles
If it’s a hot day, kids will love a refreshing frozen treat like popsicles. I make my own by blending fruit like berries, mangoes, or peaches with a little juice or yogurt.
Then, I freeze the mixture in popsicle molds. Not only are these popsicles healthier than store-bought options, but they’re also fun to eat.
Shop for popsicle molds: Silicone Popsicle Molds – make popsicles with ease.
8. Homemade Pizza Rolls
For something a little more filling, I love making homemade pizza rolls. These little bite-sized rolls are made from pizza dough, marinara sauce, cheese, and any other toppings your kids love.
They’re easy to pack, and kids can grab them without making a mess.
Shop for pizza roll ingredients: Pizza Dough Mix – perfect for making homemade pizza rolls!
9. Drinks and Snacks
Don’t forget about the drinks and snacks! I usually pack water bottles for hydration, but I also like to bring along some juice boxes or smoothies for variety.
For snacks, granola, trail mix, or popcorn are always good options to have on hand for grazing.
Shop for drink bottles: Kids Water Bottles – cute and durable!
Final Thoughts
Packing a picnic for kids doesn’t have to be stressful. By keeping things simple, colorful, and fun, your little ones will not only enjoy the food but will also get a chance to try new things.
These picnic food ideas for kids are easy to prepare, and they’ll make your outing more enjoyable for everyone.
Don’t forget to pack some wet wipes and napkins for easy cleanup.
Shop all your picnic essentials: Picnic Supplies – get everything you need in one place.
I hope these ideas inspire your next picnic adventure with the kids