Surviving the Pumpkin Patch: Baby Edition vs. Toddler Edition

Ah, the pumpkin patch. Fall vibes, cozy sweaters, and endless Instagram possibilities… plus a healthy dose of chaos. My little guy and I have now survived this autumn adventure twice—once as babies and once as toddlers—and each time brought its own hilarious challenges. Bonus: both times we went with one of my besties and her daughter, who is just a month younger than my son.

Year One: Babies and Pumpkins (aka the “Photo Olympics”)

At four months old, our main goal was simple: capture the perfect pumpkin patch photo. Easy, right? Wrong. Trying to get babies to sit on pumpkins is basically an extreme sport. Pumpkins are better at décor than human support—they roll, tilt, and definitely don’t hug back.

Lessons learned:

• Bring a blanket for their bottoms: Sitting on a cold, hard pumpkin is… not fun. A blanket underneath would have kept them warmer and more comfortable.

• Give them something to explore: A mini pumpkin or toy right in front of them kept little hands busy and attention somewhat manageable.

• Don’t skip the photos of YOU: Whether it’s a friend, random stranger, your partner, or a tripod, make sure you’re in the memory too. Babies won’t remember, but you will!

After photos, our little ones took a nap while the adults explored the farm animal area. And yes, we laughed at every failed “sit up” attempt.

Year Two: Toddlers Take Over

Fast forward to walking, talking, opinionated toddlers. This year, we knew what we were in for—and it was nothing like the baby version.

• Start with a warm-up: We kicked things off with the farm animals. Goats were a hit, and it got them moving before tackling the pumpkins.

• Slides—but safely: There was a rainbow slide our toddlers could climb with us. For smaller slides, let them go solo if they can safely get on and off—but always have a guiding hand ready.

• Hayrides are fun: We skipped this as babies, but as toddlers? Success!

• Blankets are still key: Cozy bottoms while sitting among the pumpkins or on hay = happy kids. A little padding makes all the difference.

• Let them explore: Instead of forcing “cute poses,” we surrounded them with pumpkins and let them roam. Bonus: hay mazes were a HUGE hit this year.

Yes, toddler attitude made an appearance, but isn’t that half the fun? Watching their personalities shine while exploring the patch with a bestie made it even more memorable.

Traditions in the Making

We’ve started a little tradition: same bestie, same pumpkin patch, year after year. It’s amazing to look back at photos and videos, see how much they’ve grown, and laugh at all the chaos along the way. We’re already scheduled for next year and can’t wait to see what’s the same—and what’s completely different.

Bottom line: survive, snap the photos, keep their bottoms cozy, and laugh at the chaos. The pumpkin patch isn’t just about pumpkins—it’s about memories, friendship, and watching your little humans grow… one wobbly pumpkin at a time.