Family Fun: Apple Picking

Place an empty basket about 20 feet away from another that's full of apples. See how fast the kids can transfer the fruit from one basket to the other using a wooden spoon.

Bobbing for apples is so last year. Give this new sport a try -- tie string loops onto the apple stems and then fish for them with a stick, some twine, and strong wire.

Take a break from the harvest for a simple lunch of sandwiches, chips, and -- you guessed it -- apples!

After a day of collecting, challenge the kids to guess how many apples they've gathered.

Apples are good to eat at any meal -- for breakfast, lunch, or an after-dinner dessert.

The natural starlike center of an apple makes this PB&J prettier than ever.
To Make: Cut the top off a red apple and slice into eight slivers, revealing the geometric core in the middle. Spritz the apples with lemon juice to prevent browning, then spread 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter and a dollop of strawberry jam between the slices.

Bring your apples to life with edible arms and legs.To Make: Set out bowls of pretzel sticks, dried fruit, almonds, chocolate chips, and marshmallows. Use peanut butter or cream cheese as the "glue" for attaching.

These sweet treats beat lollipops any day! To Make: Use a melon baller to remove tiny scoops from an unpeeled apple -- you can get about 12 from one piece of fruit. Insert a Popsicle stick or a wooden coffee stirrer into each ball. Dunk them in melted chocolate, caramel, or Nutella, and roll in sprinkles. Eat immediately or place on wax paper in the fridge for about an hour to harden.

Here's a snack to make in advance for your picnic.

To Make: Blend 12 ounces reduced-fat whipped cream cheese with 3 tablespoons seedless raspberry preserves until smooth. Serve with apple wedges.

Originally published in the September 2009 issue of Parents magazine.