Making Your Garden More Usable and Child Friendly

Transforming your garden into a kid friendly haven is a wonderful way to encourage outdoor play and boost your little ones connections with nature. Maybe you’ve just moved into a home and need to get the garden in order, or perhaps your outdoor space has been neglected and come springtime you’re set on getting it sorted. Either way, here are some of the things you can do to make it more appealing for your kids. 

Making Your Garden More Usable and Child Friendly

Designing with Kids in Mind

Firstely, create distinct play zones in your garden with designated areas for activities like climbing, running and quiet contemplation. It can add a touch of whimsy and stimulate their imaginations. Choose a mix of durable, safe, and child friendly surfaces, like soft grassy areas, rubber play mats and sandpits. Planting shady trees or installing a simple sun sail means there’s comfortable outdoor play even on sunny days. Consider adding a bench or picnic table where kids can eat and do outdoor activities too. Next, add creative activities like sidewalk chalk and washable paint.

Introduce Educational Elements

Secondly, make learning a natural part of your garden experience. Planting a variety of flowers, herbs, and small vegetables will all provide an interactive lesson in the science of growing. Explore different textures and scents with plants like lavender or mint. Install a bird feeder to attract feathered friends, turning your garden into a mini wildlife habitat. Educational signage can add a fun, informative touch, helping kids connect with the living environment around them. Wind chimes, bubble blowers and sensory gardens with various textures stimulate their auditory and tactile senses. Install a water play area with a shallow basin or water table. This enncourages splashing and exploration, perfect for babies and toddlers. Stone steps to jump along and other fun features can all spark their imagination. Consider adding a simple DIY butterfly or insect house to introduce them to the fascinating world of pollinators too. 

Make it Secure

Finally, install sturdy fences and a good quality gate at the perimeter of your garden. Be sure to make sure things like tools are locked away, and ponds, water features and pools are all fenced off. Be aware that some plants are dangerous if they’re picked or ingested. Regularly inspect play equipment for wear and tear, and promptly replace or repair any damaged items.

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