Remember, beyond the opportunity to nibble on nature’s candy, fruit picking offers so much more. It’s about creating lasting bonds, igniting a love for nature in your children, and teaching valuable life lessons. So, why not plan your next family outing to the North New Territories and let the fun, laughter, and fruit-picking festivities begin!

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5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing for Fruit Picking in North New Territories

As excited as you might be to step out with your little ones into the lush fields, a dose of preparation can go a long way. Here are five essential things you should know:

• Understanding the Fruit Seasons: While some farms may offer a selection of fruits all year round, each fruit has its peak season. Strawberry season from December to April is a cheerful time, with rows of red-ripe berries waiting for little hands. Lychee lovers would be best to head out in late May to June, while longan enthusiasts should mark their calendars for mid-July to September. Being aligned with the fruit seasons ensures the freshest picks and the most bountiful harvests.
• Health and Safety Comes First: Out in the open fields, the sun can be relentless, so it’s crucial to protect your family with sunscreen and hats. Farms can also be home to insects and uneven grounds, so antiseptic wipes and plasters should be part of your packing list. Sturdy shoes will prevent slips and protect from thorns or rough terrain, ensuring that everyone’s focus can be on the fun and not on their feet!
• Picking Techniques: Different fruits require different methods. Educate yourself and your children on how to tell when a fruit is ripe and how to pick it without causing harm to the plant or yourselves. Gentle twists or snips with a small pair of scissors can be helpful. Many farms provide brief tutorials upon arrival – make sure to participate!
• Plan Your Day: Fruit farms are often expansive, and the best fruits are sometimes hidden deep within the fields, which means plenty of walking. Start your day early to avoid the afternoon heat and to enjoy the quieter morning hours. Planning around your children’s regular meal and nap times will ensure they enjoy the day just as much as you do.
• Storage and Transport: After all the hard work, you’ll want to take your fruits home safely. Soft fruits like strawberries crush easily, so bring shallow containers to store them flat. Harder fruits like lychees and longans can be transported in bags or deep containers. Always be gentle when placing fruits in your storage to avoid bruising them.

Engaging Your Kids Throughout the Journey

Engaging your children throughout the fruit picking process not only keeps them entertained but also fosters learning:

• Start with a story or a fun fact about the fruit you’re about to pick to pique their interest.
• Encourage your children to find the ‘perfect’ fruit, turning it into a game with small rewards for motivational boosts.
• Set a challenge — who can fill their basket first with the ripest fruits, but remind them it’s not just about quantity but quality!
• Talk to the farmers — they have a wealth of knowledge and stories that can really enrich your children’s understanding and appreciation of nature and farming.

Fruit picking is not merely an excursion; it’s also an investment in family memories and education. By doing your homework and coming prepared, you’ll undoubtedly set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. The biggest takeaway is the time spent together, surrounded by nature, learning, and savoring sweet rewards from your collective efforts.

So gather your sunhats, baskets, and little ones — the orchards in the North New Territories are calling for a day filled with sunshine, laughter, and pockets of delicious, nature-kissed fruits. And who knows, this might just blossom into an annual family tradition that your children will carry forward for generations to come. Let the vibrant colors of nature frame your day as you make your way to the North New Territories, where family fun and fruit-filled baskets await!

See more great Things to Do with Kids in the New Territories Hong Kong here. For more information see here

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