What better way to embrace the joys of summer than by taking your little ones on a delightful blueberry picking adventure! The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the blueberry bushes are laden with plump, juicy berries just waiting to be harvested. Grab your baskets, hats, and sunscreen, and let's embark on a fun-filled day of blueberry picking with the kids!
Prepare for the Adventure with a Book
Reading the book "Blueberries for Sal" is the perfect way to prepare for a blueberry picking adventure with kids. This timeless classic by Robert McCloskey takes readers on a delightful journey alongside little Sal and her mother as they head to the blueberry hill to pick berries for winter. As we read about Sal's escapades, we discover the joy of blueberry picking, the wonders of nature, and the precious moments shared between a parent and child. The story sets the stage for our upcoming adventure, allowing us to visualize the blueberry fields, feel the excitement of the hunt, and anticipate the sweet reward of filling our baskets with plump, juicy blueberries. With "Blueberries for Sal" as our guide, we're ready to embark on our own real-life blueberry picking expedition, prepared to create cherished memories just like Sal and her mother did in the story.
When is blueberry picking season?
Blueberry picking season in the USA varies depending on the region and the type of blueberries grown. Generally, blueberry picking season spans from late spring to late summer, with variations in specific timing across different states. Here's an approximate timeline for blueberry picking season in various regions of the USA:
Southern States: Blueberry season typically starts in late April to early May and lasts through July.
Mid-Atlantic and Midwest States: Blueberries are usually in season from June to July.
Northeastern States and Canada: Blueberry season starts in late June and continues through August.
Western States (e.g., California, Oregon, Washington): Depending on the location and elevation, the blueberry season can start as early as May and last until September.
It's essential to remember that the exact timing of blueberry picking season can vary from year to year due to weather patterns and other factors. To find out the specific dates for blueberry picking in your area, it's best to check with local blueberry farms, orchards, or farmers' markets closer to the expected season. This way, you can enjoy the freshest and tastiest blueberries during their peak harvest!
How to Pick Blueberries with Kids:
1. Go in the morning
Go while the kids are fresh and full of energy! Check your local farms for opening times.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing
There is nothing quite like an uncomfortable pair of shoes or underwear to ruin a good time! Dress for the occasion - lightweight pants, a t-shirt, and a sweatshirt for chilly mornings. Waterproof shoes are always helpful too!
3. Bring water and a snack
Sure, you can eat blueberries along the way, but we recommend bringing a snack and water just in case.
4. Make It a Game:
Turn the blueberry picking experience into a fun adventure for the kids. Play games like "Who can pick the most berries?" or "Find the biggest blueberry."
How to Store Fresh Picked Blueberries:
Properly storing fresh blueberries is essential to maintain their delicious flavor and prolong their shelf life.
5. If you can't use the blueberries within a week, consider freezing them by spreading them on a baking sheet and then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
And, the last step... ENJOY!
At Crann, we believe life should be an adventure! Preferably a comfortable one! Get outside and share your experiences to help inspire others to enjoy nature too!
