If you’re like most parents, you want your child to be able to play outside in the yard without having to worry about them getting hurt.
Here’s how to create a kid-friendly yard that is safe and fun for children of all ages, covering everything from playground equipment to garden design.
So read on for some great tips on how to create a kid-friendly yard for your little ones!
If you’re lucky enough to have some outdoor space with your home, you’ll want to make the very most of it.
After all, there is nothing better for children than being out in the fresh air and having a little freedom to explore in a safe space.
So what can you do to maximize your yard so it’s fun and safe for little ones?
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Keep Some Open Space for Running Around
It can be tempting to fill your yard with play equipment and fun stuff to do.
But when you’re designing your yard, remember to keep some wide open space too.
This is important for a couple of reasons.
First, it gives children the opportunity to run around and burn off some energy.
And second, it means that if they fall, there’s nothing for them to hurt themselves on.
So keep some open space in your yard, and make sure it’s well away from any fencing or walls.
Open space also makes your yard more versatile – the kids can use it for riding their bikes, or you can make use of it for social gatherings too.
Consider a Pool
If you’re thinking about adding a pool to your yard, there are a couple of things you need to take into account when it comes to safety.
First, you’ll need to look into pool safety fence installation so that small children can’t get to it without supervision.
Second, you’ll need to be extra vigilant when children are using the pool – make sure they’re always supervised, and never leave them unattended.
But a pool can be a great addition to any backyard and promises hours of fun and physical activity for the little ones.
Think About the Surfaces
The type of surface you have in your yard will make a big difference to how safe it is for children.
Hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt can be unforgiving if children fall, so it’s best to avoid these if possible.
Instead, go for softer surfaces like grass, mulch, or sand.
These are much kinder on little bodies if they take a tumble, and they also make for a more pleasant play environment.
If you want a patio area, consider making it a wooden decked area instead, as wood is a little softer for falls compared to stone or concrete.
Choose the Right Plants
Be careful when choosing plants for your yard, as some of them can be poisonous if ingested.
If you’re not sure which plants are safe, it’s best to err on the side of caution and stick to plants that are known to be safe for kids, such as daisies or daffodils.
You should also avoid plants with thorns or sharp edges, as these can cause cuts and scratches.
Don’t have any plants with inedible berries, as children are drawn to berries, and they’ll want to pick them all the time.
And finally, make sure any poisonous plants are kept well out of reach of children.
Fence Off the Area
If you’re not lucky enough to have a naturally fenced-in yard, you’ll need to put up a fence to keep children safe.
A picket fence is a good option if you’re looking for something that’s both attractive and functional.
Just make sure the gaps between the pickets are small enough so that little ones can’t squeeze through.
You’ll also need to make sure the gates are child-proof, so choose ones with locks that are out of reach.
Add Some Fun Features
You want your kids to have fun adventures in your yard, so think about what fun features you could add.
This could include a sandbox, mud kitchen, climbing frames or a treehouse.
Play houses are also a lot of fun for little ones, and they can be as simple or as extravagant as you like.
If you’re short on space, there are plenty of compact options available that will still provide hours of fun.
And when it comes to choosing play equipment, safety is always the number one priority, so make sure you do your research and buy from a reputable brand.
Have Some Relaxation Space
Place benches and chairs can also be a good idea, so the kids can relax outside when they need a break from playing!
Outdoor beanbags are also hugely popular with kids, as they can lounge around on them while they’re reading or chatting with friends.
They can also double as play equipment, such as part of an obstacle course.
Just make sure any furniture you choose is durable and weather-resistant, so it can withstand being outside all the time.
You might even consider adding a pizza oven to your relaxation area.
Of course the pizza oven itself will need to be operated by an adult, but al fresco pizza meals are wonderful for family friendly activities.
Creating a kid-friendly yard doesn’t have to be difficult – just keep safety in mind and add some fun features, and you’ll be sure to create a space that the little ones will love.
With a bit of planning, you can create a yard that everyone in the family will enjoy spending time in – How to Create a Kid-Friendly Yard.
