Do you have a child, or a young friend or family member who spends a lot of time chilling at your place? Get them off the digital devices and out having fun in the sun with a revamped backyard.
A sheltered outdoor space is a haven for kids to expend energy in creative play and exploration. Use these ideas as a springboard of inspiration for your own space and resources. It’s easier than you think to make your backyard more kid-friendly!
Fly through the wind with an outdoor swing
The simple addition of an outdoor swing does wonders for your kids. Children love feeling the rush of wind in their face! A swing gets your kids outdoors and doing exercise that feels fun.
With modern swing sets ranging from inexpensive to elaborate, you’ll find something to suit every family and budget. You could even hang your own tire swing from a branch if you have a tree that is large and strong enough.
Spend time creating a special kids’ area
Complement a swing set with a whole play area for the kids. A play area could be as simple as a sandpit for toddlers and younger children, to larger playgrounds and trampolines.
Outdoor play is a vital part of a child’s development. General guidelines recommend no more than a couple of hours in front of a screen for children over the age of 5 – with even less time recommended for younger kids. Kids with sedentary lifestyles may suffer from weight-related issues, so the benefits of getting your child playing outside far outweigh any associated costs.
Surround yourselves with natural beauty
An alternative to creating a playground is using natural resources. Space permitting, plant some tall grasses and weeping trees – dwarf weeping willows are great.
Add some stepping stones to form paths and plant some tall flowers and grasses. Wide, open spaces of grass attract kids to enjoy running and playing outside. Plant large trees to climb, as well as colourful, hardy plants where kids can play hide and seek. You’ll be fostering all the skills of a regular playground with added bonuses. The kids will use their creativity to develop new games, harnessing important skills in the process.
Enjoy the fresh air in a sheltered paradise
A great way to encourage outdoor activity is to provide a place of refuge from the sun. Gazebos and umbrellas are inexpensive ways to protect young, sensitive skin from UV rays and subsequent sun damage. You’ll enjoy your sheltered haven too – you can drink, read, and watch your kids running around without fear of sunburn.
Image Source: Pixnio
Marvel at the wonder of growing your own food
Fussy eaters may even expand their palate when they take pride in growing and nurturing their own vegetables! Choose plant breeds that are easy to look after and grow quickly. Kids will love to see their work coming to fruition. The faster this happens, the better. Also, consider taking photos of the little sprout growing daily. Your kids will love to see a growth collage.
Get your kids enthused about heading into the backyard with kid-friendly fittings. You can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose! It’s essential for you to keep your kids active, fit, and healthy. So, get those ideas flowing and send your kids on an adventure in their own backyard.
Author bio:
Throughout her freelance writing career, Harper Reid has written and edited articles for multiple blogs and sites. She happily shares her published pieces on her personal blog