How to Host a Successful Back to School Co-op/Group Picnic

First of all, let me say I can’t take ANY credit for our support group’s picnic success this year.  We had a couple of creative moms who totally rocked it, so I’m sharing their ideas with you.   (And isn’t the sign absolute greatness?!)

First pick a great location, with lots of wide open spaces, playground and picnic shelter…and pray for a glorious 80 degree, humid free day in August.   A successful homeschool group activity needs fun things that everyone can participate in as a group, or in teams, such as sack races.

A water balloon toss is something that is really more fun the worse you are at it.  This is a great opportunity for bigs and littles to laugh and squeal together.  

This activity MAY turn into a full fledged water balloon battle.   This is GREAT fun.  Just make sure you have everyone help pick up all the little pieces of balloons off the ground when you’re finished.

Involve the dads and the babies….they like being around too.

Allow time for the kids to explore nature and to just play and be kids.

Oh, and yeah, have lots of food.   The menu could be simple like sandwiches/chips/cookies or a hot food potluck, dogs on the grill or even have everyone chip in for pizza. 

After all of the clean up is completed and the day is winding down be SURE to have the parents synchronize their leaving.  Once all the covered dishes and chairs are packed up, then it’s time to announce it’s time to go home   Obviously there will be some folks who have to leave earlier, but it’s often easier for everyone to leave at the same time than to try to pull your family out of the fun that’s happening.  This is especially helpful for the younger kids so that the day ends on a happy note with everyone leaving at the same time.

What helpful tips do you have for large group activities like this?