These days it can be quite difficult to pull the kids away from their TVs and iPads to get them to spend some time outdoors. With the long summer holidays soon approaching, it is time to get the kids in the backyard to make the most of their time off and fully enjoy the sunshine.
But, is your backyard a collection of fragile plant pots, flower beds and a greenhouses, ruling out balls games and just waiting to be trampled on by little feet? If so, maybe it’s time you updated your yard to make it that little bit more child friendly.
Consider artificial grass
Artificial grass is a great option for your child friendly garden. It is a soft surface that requires little maintenance – which can be a big help if you have small children and not a lot of time on your hands. Synthetic turf looks just like the real thing; nobody will even notice it’s not real grass. This can also be installed with a soft surface underneath that will help trips and falls.
Avoid certain plants
We all know how much babies and toddlers like to explore the world by putting things in their mouths and, because of this, you need to be very careful about what you are planting. Although bluebells and hyacinths might look great on the outside, they have hidden dangers that could make your children very poorly with severe poisoning or skin reactions. You should also avoid laburnum or monkshood.
Make them aware of the dangers
It is also very important to teach children to be careful when outdoors, to never put anything in their mouths and always wash their hands once they come back inside. This approach will make them aware when out in the backyard, or in someone’s backyard.
Lock up your tools
You need to make sure you are doing everything you can to make sure your yard is a danger free zone. This includes making sure you lock all of your tools away in a safe and secure place when they are not in use. Lawnmowers and sharp tools such a forks, need to be away so that your child can’t reach them and hurt themselves. Chemicals for your yard should also be locked away.
Quality fencing
Having little ones running around the yard means you will need something put into place to stop them wandering off into the neighbours or worse, any nearby roads – a quality fence will give you piece of mind.
Create a child specific spaces
A child friendly backyard needs specific child-centered areas for them to enjoy alone, or with friends. From sandboxes to making a space for games, such as soccer, you make all the difference for your children and give them a space that feels like their own to explore.
Having children doesn’t mean you have to give up your beautiful garden, just follow these simple steps and you can create a child friendly space for everyone to enjoy.
In collaboration with Bethany Taylor
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