May 27, 2011 Allie

Memorial Day Memories

When I think of Memorial Day, I think of grills, sunny days, and burgers. I also remember all the fun I had running around with my friends in the grass as a child. Whether or not you’re a parent, kids always seem to be a big part of Memorial Day fun. So we thought we’d round up some of the best outdoor activities to make you the most popular mom, dad, aunt, uncle, friend, neighbor or (insert here) at the party next Monday.

If you’re the host and you know that plenty of youngins (ages 3-8) will be running around your yard, invest in the HaPe My Backyard BBQ Set. Kids will love feeling like they’re a part of the grilling action and will have fun playing together, so you’ll have a little more time to enjoy their parents’ company. It’s a wooden set complete with realistic details: the hood opens and closes just like the grown-up grill, it has two wheels for easy transporting, and it features four clicking burner knobs for controlling the “flame.” It’s coated in non-toxic paint and is super safe, so you’ll make your friends happy too!

No matter where you’re picnicking, you’re going to need the perfect blanket to eat on. The J.J. Cole Essentials blanket is just that. Not only is it huge so everyone can sprawl out, but it also has durable outer fabric so you won’t be bothered by slimy wet grass or crunchy sand. It even has enough cushioning that you’ll still be comfy sitting on a sidewalk or in driveway. You can easily take it with you to a friend’s party, since it folds up into a nice carry case with a handle.

If you’re bringing your baby with you to a party, the Phil & Teds Lobster High Chair is a must. It’s never fun holding a plate in one hand and a kid in another. The Lobster has super powerful clamps that screw in place to grip tables, even picnic tables, to allow your child to sit with you while you both chow down. It’s got a five-point safety harness, it’s padded for supreme comfort, and it keeps kids securely locked in place for safe dining. And at only four pounds, it’s perfect for travel.

Finally, we can’t ignore the essentials for a (hopefully) bright day. Keep the sun out of your baby’s eyes and protect her skin with some chic and functional sun hats by Coolibar. Headed to a pool party? The Coolibar Hawaiian Infant Swim Hat is chlorine-resistant so you’ll never have to worry about the colors fading if you pop in the pool with your child. It’s also made of UPF 50+ SUNTECT fabric, letting your baby enjoy the great outdoors without getting sunburned.