Themed picnics sound like a wonderful way to make mealtimes exciting and foster creativity! My son can be rather fussy about food, so I'll definitely be giving this a shot.
My life-saver is keeping a stock of inexpensive, compact toys and treats, perfect for rewarding good behavior or as a distraction technique. Think small cars, miniature puzzles, or sticker sheets. They come in handy especially during tantrum-prone situations like grocery trips or restaurant visits.
I also rely on a arsenal of sensory play ideas for at home, like slime, kinetic sand, and art supplies that encourage independent play. These are great for developing senses and keeping my little one entertained while I tend to his younger cousin.
Anything to keep the peace and make life more enjoyable, right?