There is nothing like a family picnic to bring everyone together and have a great time. It is one of the few things a family can do together that doesn't cost a small fortune. Going to an amusement park is fun, but after the cost to get there, paying for parking, entry fees and lunch, your looking at a few hundred dollars for a family of four. If you want a fun family day without the expense, pack a lunch and walk over to your neighborhood park.

The crowds are much less and you won't spend half your day waiting in long line ups. You can bring a Frisbee or a soccer ball. Your kids will love it. You might think you have to spend a lot of money to make kids happy, but that isn't true. All kids really want is your attention. There is no better one on one time than a friendly game of soccer. Plus, if you are like most people, you could probably use the fresh air and exercise after a long week at the office.

Packing your picnic is half the fun. Have the kids help with making the sandwiches. That way you can be sure they will eat it because they can make it just the way they like. Maybe Billy likes bologna and mustard while Sally prefers peanut butter and jelly. Just don't try to offer your husband a peanut butter sandwich when he expecting egg salad. That could ruin the whole afternoon. Then they can choose the extras. The fruits and vegetables they like, and especially dessert!

A few small, lightweight ice packs will keep everything from spoiling, but since you will probably be eating shortly after you get there, that shouldn't be too much of an issue. If you choose a park with slides, and swings, even better. By the time you get home, the kids will tuckered out and ready for bed. No fighting to try to get them to sleep! The perfect end to a perfect day.