Organizing a picnic is not limited to filling a basket with good little dishes. The choice of place plays an equally crucial role, especially when we have young children to manage. To avoid unpleasant surprises, some common sense rules are essential … starting by locating the most suitable places.
Choose the place, to spend a pleasant time
The ideal place must have shade, be spacious and have games nearby. Among the reassuring executives are the large urban parks. The Golden Head Park in Lyon or the Luxembourg Garden in Paris not only offer large lawns, but also secure playgrounds, toilets at hand and sometimes even rides.
Another very popular alternative in summer: leisure bases. The base of Cergy-Pontoise, in the Paris region, offers a body of water with swimming areas, pedalos, and even trails to walk without danger. Same family atmosphere at the Thau pond, Occitania, where children can wade quietly.
For those who prefer the freshness of the woods, some forests offer areas fitted out with picnic tables, marked paths, and garbage cans. The forests of Fontainebleau or Compiègne are good examples. On the other hand, watch out for too dense or poorly maintained undergrowth, where it can be easy to get lost or fall on a toxic plant.
What are the dangers to avoid, during a picnic?
In terms of traps to avoid, Dr. Kierzek alerts on two points. “”The edges of not monitored rivers must be avoided, the current can be treacherous, and the isolated areas without a network. In the event of a glitch, the appeal to help may be impossible “.
In parallel, think of your organization. Have we provided enough water? Are toilets accessible within five minutes? Are there gray areas or should you come equipped? These kinds of questions avoid many surprises.
“”With children, you must always anticipate. A first aid kit is never too much. And no question of neglecting sunscreen and hats, even if you picnic in the shade “ Recalls Dr. Kierzek. He also advises to always have an anti-mosquito repellent, particularly in wetlands or near the lakes.
Also check the stability of the terrain. A slippery slope, too irregular soil or poorly placed pebbles can cause falls. And even a simple ball game can become risky if the corner is not well chosen.
Finally, an often neglected but essential point: the presence of certain plants. “Just a datura and the consequences can be serious” warns the doctor. Better to choose a free, maintained, and monitored corner if possible.
Favor a safe and accessible place
A good spot is also a place where you can easily access with a stroller or a cooler. It also takes a clear space, far from the roads, so that children can run without danger. “”Also think about access: ideal is a parking lot less than ten minutes away, so as not to transform the arrival on the site into an expedition. Some places even offer paths suitable for strollers, which changes everything when you have a baby or equipment“Recalls our expert.
On this subject, he reveals his trick: use Google Earth. “”In satellite mode, you can check the presence of shadow trees, locate the paths, tables or even toilets. A simple tip to save time and avoid unpleasant surprises “.
Finally, if time turns badly or if the place is taken by storm, it is better to give up than to be tested. “”Knowing how to turn around is to avoid emergencies. In the event of a strong or strong crowd, we put it back to another day “ he concludes.