Traveling with a baby to a fruit farm can be a delightful experience, but it requires some planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
With the first hint of warm weather, I begin planning our spring berry-picking trip. The sunshine, blue skies, fresh air, and juicy berries make it one of my favourite outings of the year.
Berry picking is one of our favourite activities in the spring and summer. We’ve done it several times, starting when our toddlers were about 20 months old.
Pre-Trip Preparation
- Check Farm Policies:
- Ensure the farm is baby-friendly and inquire about any specific rules or facilities available for families with young children.
We picked blueberries at a charming little farm near our home in Toronto.
I was unsure how blueberry picking would go with two little ones, but we had a fantastic time. We returned home with a pint of blueberries and even more in our bellies.
Pack Essentials:
- Diapers and Wipes: Bring more than you think you’ll need.
- Extra Clothes: For both you and the baby, in case of spills or accidents.
- Blankets and Sun Protection: A blanket for the baby to sit on, and hats, sunscreen, and baby-safe insect repellent.
- Baby Food and Snacks: Including bottles, if necessary, and a cooler bag for perishable items.
- Toys and Comfort Items: Favorite toys or comfort items to keep the baby entertained and calm.
Call Ahead :
Berry seasons can be unpredictable. Even though strawberry season typically falls in June, that doesn’t guarantee strawberries will be ready for picking when you visit. It’s always wise to call the farm in advance to ensure a successful trip, especially when you have less patient children with you.
Health and Safety:
- First Aid Kit: Include baby-specific items like infant pain reliever, band-aids, and any necessary medications.
- Hydration: Bring enough water for both you and the baby.
Manage Your Expectations :
When our kids are older, I’m sure they’ll be more helpful berry pickers. As tiny toddlers, they’re more likely to eat the berries than put them in the basket. They may also have difficulty distinguishing between ripe and unripe ones. Keep your goals in mind—whether it’s learning about blueberries, having fun, or bringing a small amount home. Focus on these goals and enjoy the experience.
During the Trip
- Timing:
- Visit the farm during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid peak heat.
- Baby Carrier or Stroller:
- Use a baby carrier for ease of movement on uneven terrain. If you bring a stroller, ensure it’s suitable for outdoor use.
- Shaded Areas:
- Find shaded spots for breaks to keep the baby cool and comfortable.
- Interactive Play:
- Let the baby touch and explore safe, clean fruits. This can be a fun sensory experience for them.
- Photography:
- Capture the moments but ensure the baby is not exposed to too much direct sunlight.
Teaching Ripe vs. Not Ripe :
Young kids often struggle to understand that not all berries are ready to eat. To them, all berries are delicious. I explained to our twins that green berries are a no and blue ones are a yes. Despite this, a few sour blueberries still ended up in our basket and their mouths. As with anything involving toddlers, calmly repeat the message as often as necessary.
Farm-Specific Tips
- Berry Farms:
- Watch out for bees and other insects that might be attracted to the fruits.
- Avoid letting the baby pick up and eat fruits from the ground.
Dress for the Weather :
Make sure to apply sunscreen and dress appropriately for the weather, as you’ll be in an open field with no shade. Sun hats are also highly recommended for kids, though I have to admit, I didn’t manage to get ours to wear them.
Post-Trip Care
- Check for Ticks:
- After spending time in grassy or wooded areas, check your baby (and yourself) for ticks.
- Bath Time:
- Give your baby a bath to wash off any dirt, sunscreen, or insect repellent.
- Hydration and Rest:
- Ensure your baby drinks plenty of fluids and gets adequate rest after the adventure.
They begin to understand where blueberries come from and how they end up on our table. They also get introduced to the concept of ripeness and work on developing fine motor skills.
If your child shows no interest in picking blueberries and instead prefers playing in the dirt or watching a tractor, that’s still valuable. It helps you learn more about their current interests and what they’re eager to explore.
Bonus Tips
- Frequent Breaks: Take breaks to allow the baby to rest and to feed them as needed.
- Stay Flexible: Be prepared to cut the trip short if the baby becomes too fussy or tired.
- Enjoy the Moment: Relax and enjoy the experience, creating happy memories with your little one.
By planning ahead and keeping these tips in mind, you can make your trip to a fruit farm with your baby a fun and memorable adventure.
