BBQ Hacks

Ten years ago, in Mikey’s Journal, he shared that some friends came over for a BBQ. Here is his journal entry.  Since we didn’t take any photos, I chose one of my mom and step dad grilling at the lake.

This has inspired me to share my best ideas about having a BBQ with kids. First, and most obviously, an adult needs to always be next to the grill. Getting burned by a scalding BBQ is not anyone’s idea of fun. Okay, now on to the good tips.

The Picky Eater

If you’re going to a BBQ at someone else’s house, bring a grilled cheese, prepped, but not cooked, in foil. It will be easy for the host to throw it on the grill with all the other stuff, and your picky eater won’t taste any residue from anything else that has been cooked on the grill.

Then, offer to bring a veggie tray or some watermelon so your kiddo has some healthy sides.

Finally, keep your arsenal of snacks in the car so you can grab something extra as needed.

The Water Obsessed Non-Swimmer

Life jacket on all day, no exceptions.  Then, if they fall in, it’s just a funny story and not a danger. Still watch them constantly, especially if they can take off the life jacket by themselves, but you want safety redundancies so you can relax a little and enjoy yourself. When my boys were young, I just parked myself in the pool which made it easier to grab them if they needed me.

Entertainment

Bring some stuff for your kid to do. Pool toys, but also stuff to do when they are dry and sitting with you at the table. I’m thinking coloring, puzzles, or small fidget toys.

Beware of Bubbles

If there is a pool, and you bring bubble stuff, keep the bubbles away from the pool deck. Things get slippery fast so only use the bubbles if there is a grassy area away from the pool.

Happy Summer, Y’All!