I am a summer girl through and through, but there’s something truly special about fall that just invites us to make heartwarming memories, especially with our little ones!
Whether it’s crunching through piles of leaves, getting our hands messy with some seasonal crafts, or simply enjoying the rich scents of fall baking, there’s so much to do and explore. I’m excited to share some of our favorite fall activities that are perfect for toddlers and guaranteed to create fun family time together.
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Pumpkin Patch
Probably the most common fall activity is taking your little one to the pumpkin patch. Although it's super common, each year can look so different. Many pumpkin patches offer a variety of activities tailored for young children, such as hayrides, corn mazes designed for little legs, petting zoos with friendly farm animals, and even toddler-friendly crafts like painting pumpkins. These experiences not only help develop their sensory and motor skills but also ignite their imagination.
Even if there aren't these extra activities, walking through the rows of pumpkins and letting your little one pick their favorite is a great way to spend your time. They get to explore all the different shapes, sizes, colors, etc., of the pumpkins and learn along the way. A pumpkin patch is a wonderful way to spend a crisp fall day, making lasting memories while embracing the festive spirit of the season.
Apple Picking
Visiting an apple orchard in the fall is such a great activity that offers much more than just the chance to pick fresh apples. As you and your toddler wander through the rows of apple trees, it's the perfect opportunity to teach them about where our food comes from and the different types of apples that grow in your region. If your toddler is anything like mine, they will most likely want to start eating the first apple they pick. Addy loved having an apple in one hand to eat and using the other to hold the bag of apples while I picked them.
Most orchards also offer additional fun, like hayrides, apple cider tasting, and even apple-themed treats that turn the day into a festive outing. Not only does apple picking foster a deeper connection with nature, but it also encourages healthy eating by turning fruit into a fun, firsthand experience. And a bonus - if you use the apples for baking later, your toddler will LOVE that they helped pick them and will be excited to help you bake with them.
Sunflower Fields
Visiting a sunflower field is a visually stunning and delightful experience, especially in the company of a toddler. As you walk through rows of bright, sunny flowers, it’s a wonderful opportunity to introduce your little one to the beauty of nature and the concept of growth and seasons. Toddlers can marvel at the height and vibrant colors of the sunflowers, learn about the parts of a flower, and even observe bees and butterflies that are often attracted to these blooms.
Many sunflower fields also offer photo opportunities and pick-your-own options, where you can select sunflowers to take home. This can extend the day's adventure to crafting at home, like making a simple sunflower crown or arranging a bouquet together. These activities not only create lasting memories but also help build your toddler’s appreciation for nature in a fun, interactive way!
Hiking
Fall hikes with my toddler are always a highlight of the season for me and my husband. There's something magical about wandering through the woods together, surrounded by a burst of red, orange, and yellow leaves. Each step through the crunchy leaves brings new discoveries, from acorns and leaves she tucks into her little pockets to the occasional wildlife we see skirting around.
It's not just a walk; it's like a treasure hunt set against nature's most spectacular backdrop! The crisp autumn air and the vibrant scenery make these hikes more than just exercise; they're such a great way to get out as a family and experience nature (when it's not so hot, honestly!) Each hike becomes a cherished memory, filled with laughter and small wonders that only the fall can bring.
We LOVE this carrier for hiking! And this is a great outdoor scavenger hunt.
Decorate Pumpkins
Decorating pumpkins with your toddler is a festive fall activity that sparks creativity and allows for some hands-on fun. Instead of the traditional pumpkin carving, which can be tricky with little ones, opt for painting or decorating with stickers, which is much safer and just as enjoyable. Set up a small workstation with washable paints, brushes, and colorful stickers. You can even make the first step, cleaning the pumpkin, a fun part of the activity. Once it's clean and dry, you can guide your toddler in choosing colors or patterns, turning each pumpkin into a personal art project. This activity not only helps develop their fine motor skills but also lets them express their imagination.
The best part? You end up with adorable, customized pumpkins that add a personal touch to your fall decor, and each time you look at their little creations, you’ll remember the special time spent together!
Bake Fall Treats
One of the best and most DELICIOUS activities you can do with your toddler in the fall is bake! Baking fall treats with your toddler can be a great way to use the "bounty" you've gathered from your autumn adventures.
After a day spent at the apple orchard, you can transform those fresh apples into a simple, toddler-friendly apple crisp or mini apple pies. If you've visited a pumpkin patch, scoop out the seeds to roast with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a crunchy snack, or blend the pumpkin into a batter for delicious pumpkin muffins. Even sunflower seeds picked from a sunflower field can be roasted and added to cookies or bread for a nutty flavor.
Involving your toddler in the baking process, from mixing, scooping, and even cutting ingredients to placing items on a baking tray, not only makes for a fun and interactive afternoon but also teaches them the joy of cooking with ingredients they've helped collect. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the season's flavors and enjoy the fruits (and seeds) of your fall explorations together!
For all my favorite recipes, head over to my Instagram and tap through the recipes highlight!
Check out these great toddler-safe knives and this kitchen stool to bring your toddler to counter-height.
Conclusion
As the trees show off their fall colors and the air grows crisp, there's no better season to make lasting memories with your toddler. Each fall activity, from the simple joy of decorating pumpkins to the sweet scents of baking with freshly picked apples and pumpkins, enriches our family life with laughter and learning. These moments become such cherished family memories (and I'm SO excited to include our youngest this year)! So, like I said - join me by putting on your comfiest sweater and diving into this beautiful season!
Always,
Jess
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