Mommy & Mini Fall Picnic Menu

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There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, the golden leaves, the warm sun peeking through the trees. I love to carry our mommy and me picnics well into the season, all the way until it’s too cold to sit outside comfortably. Even if it’s just 20 minutes in the backyard or a quick lunch at the park, I try to have at least one meal a day outside with my little one.

It’s more than just a meal—it’s a moment. Eating outdoors helps us both slow down, connect, and be present. It’s a simple but powerful way to cut back on screen time—no buzzing phones or background TV, just fresh air, snacks, and sweet conversation (or toddler giggles and snack sharing).

I also love turning our time outside into a mini adventure with fun, screen-free activities. Some days we go on color walks, spotting different hues in nature like a real-life rainbow scavenger hunt. Other times, we do a classic nature scavenger hunt, searching for pinecones, acorns, crunchy leaves, or anything interesting the season has to offer. One of our favorite creative projects? Making cute nature accessories—we use tape to craft little bracelets or crowns with leaves, twigs, petals, and whatever treasures we find.

These simple moments do wonders for both of our moods. The fresh air, the creative play, and the freedom to explore remind me how powerful it is to unplug and just be together. So if you’re feeling cooped up or craving a reset, grab a blanket, pack a snack, and let nature do the rest.

Something I’ve noticed—after running around and playing outdoors, my toddler is so much more interested in eating fresh fruit and healthy snacks. There’s something about the sunshine and movement that makes apples, berries, and crunchy veggies taste even better! If you’re curious, check out my favorite fall picnic menu for toddler-friendly, nature-approved ideas for you and your mini.

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be a mom to enjoy this kind of magic. Whether you’re an auntie, grandma, big sister, babysitter, or just someone who loves spending time with a little one, these outdoor moments are pure gold. A cozy picnic, some creative play, and a little sunshine can turn an ordinary day into something unforgettable.

These moments aren’t just good for the body—they’re good for the soul. For both of you!

Fall Picnic Menu & Recipes:

Mini Me Fall Picnic box:

Sunflower seed butter and fig jam pumpkin shape sandwiches

Cut two pumpkin shapes from sandwich bread using a cookie cutter. Spread ½ tbsp sunflower seed butter on one slice, ½ tbsp fig jam on the other, and press together to make a sandwich.

Apple Slices With Cinnamon Maple Yogurt Dip

• 1 apple, sliced

• Yogurt dip: 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain), sprinkle of cinnamon, 1 tsp. maple syrup(optional).

Instructions: Mix together all the ingredients of yogurt and enjoy with the apples.

Mommy Fall Picnic box:

Autumnal Harvest Pasta Salad- Single serving

• ½ cup cooked fall leaf and pumpkin-shaped pasta

• ½ cup finely chopped kale

• ¼ cup shredded carrots

• ¼ cup canned chickpeas or kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• ¼ cup diced bell pepper (any color)

• 1/2 small beet, diced ( optional-roast)

• 1–2 tablespoons shredded or crumbled cheese of choice (e.g., feta, cheddar)

• Dressing: I used Side Dish Apple Cider Vinaigrette ( 15% off discount link here!)

Instructions: In a bowl, combine the cooked pasta, kale, carrots, chickpeas or beans, bell pepper, and cheese. Toss well, add dressing, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Autumn Crisp Grapes with a hint of rose water

I love to pair crisp juice grapes with a splash of rose water since it makes them taste like lychee jelly. You can also use coconut water for a hydrating boost.

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie (2 servings)

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree

• ½ cup vanilla or plain yogurt of choice

  (I use Greek for added protein)

• 1 ripe banana

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• ⅛ tsp cinnamon

• 1/3 cup milk of choice (adjust for desired thickness)

• Optional: 1 tsp apricot jam or 1 chopped date for extra sweetness

  
  

Instructions:Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into your favorite jars with a lid for an on-the-go picnic drink. Adjust sweetness or milk as needed, then enjoy immediately!

Some other share-able ideas:

Harvest flatbread: Take flatbread like naan or flat buns and top it with tomato sauce, choice of cheese, and seasonal veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cut the flap bread into strips or triangles for easy eating with your little one!

Roasted veggie fries: Chop veggies like beets, carrots, squash into fries-like shape. Roast in the oven or air fry until crisp and enjoy with a favorite dip!

Harvest snack board: This no cook board can include seasonal finger food options like pears, apple slices, cheese squares, pretzels, crackers, chopped seasonal veggies, and dips.