When you were a child who is lucky enough to grow up with a backyard then you know what a magical place the backyard can be. It’s where we kicked some cans, became king of the mountain, and found ghosts in the graveyard. Our earliest memories include places that were closest to our home, especially our backyard.
Now that you have a family of your own you want to make sure your children have these same wonderful memories. This isn’t difficult to do if you just try to remember what you loved as a kid while making sure it’s a safe and preferably green environment. Where do we start?
Safety First
Our children are precious. This is no understatement. So, it stands to reason that their safety is our number one priority. We’ve put together a few ideas and things you should look out for.
Light It Up
During the day the sun serves as a light source for half of the globe and there is no reason why it can’t do that in the evening too. We use our backyards after the sun has set for barbecues and get-togethers. Lighting is very important at night for obvious reasons. When your children are chasing a ball with their cousins or friends how are they going to see that rock in the grass?
With solar lighting, that’s how. Of course, you don’t have to be green and can install a type of light fixture that uses another energy source, but you will just be costing yourself more in the long run with energy bills. Solar lights will make your yard look manicured while aiding anyone who walks through it, including children. Backyard Boss can give you an idea on different solar lighting options.
Fence Them In
This safety measure is for smaller children and pets. If you have been thinking about installing a fence in your yard then this might be the time to do it. While we all want to think we are the perfect parent people make mistakes that cost them dearly. A fence will keep everything precious in your life within your reach.
Of course, once your children learn how to unlatch the gate then a fence isn’t going to make that much of a difference. This is the time you need to install your own personal boundaries. Let your children know what is acceptable.
If you don’t want them to leave the yard, make sure they understand and abide by your rules. As they get older, the rules can adjust.
Entertainment
Some entertainment in the yard is important but there are some types that can prove to be dangerous. The two we are thinking about specifically are a pool and a trampoline. While these are great things to own, if you want them you need to make sure they are secured properly otherwise someone can get hurt.
If you have or want a pool that’s great. Make sure access is difficult especially if you have small children. It’s always wise to lock up a pool even if you don’t have children because neighbourhood kids can be adventurous.
As for the trampoline, get the netting that surrounds and covers it because these are as dangerous as they are fun. Kids break their legs on them quite often after a nasty spill so, if you are dead set on getting a trampoline, make sure to get all the safety features as well.
One last safety item, if you plan on installing a playset with swings and a slide, check the safety features as well. Don’t buy a used set unless you checked it and made sure it’s okay. The sturdier the better. You don’t want one of those collapsing while a child plays on it.
Now for The Fun
We got the safety part out of the way, let’s take a look at some ideas on how to create a magical atmosphere in your backyard.
Secret Places
If you are lucky enough to have a yard filled with trees and little winding paths, then this part should be simple for you. The idea is to create secret get-away places inside the yard. Put a bench under a tree or in a hidden nook. For a child, this is where imagination takes over. This place could be a dungeon, a castle, or anything your child wants it to be.
Add some solar lights in this area to make it feel special.
Bridges
Of course, not everyone’s backyard has a babbling brook to put a bridge over, but you don’t necessarily need one to make a yard look aesthetically like a fairy tale.
You can build a small bridge and section the underneath off with rocks. Then you let nature grow wild in there and mow around it. This can look like a dried-up water bed.
In the Tree
A hammock in the summer is another great addition to a kid friendly backyard. Children love to swing on a hammock.
Or, if you are looking for a big project, build a tree house. This will make your kids the envy of the neighbourhood and they be ecstatic. Of course, there are safety issues here you need to consider before getting out the saw and wood.
Conclusion
Backyards are special places, especially in the world of a child. We have tea parties in them and slay dragons. These ideas can turn your backyard into the playland of a lifetime.
Article Submitted By Community Writer