We would all love to spend more time with our children, out in the garden. Especially now the sunshine is out to play! Not all of us have a backyard that is suitable for the whole family, however. It may be because you haven’t touched it since last summer. Maybe there are too many hazards around. Whatever the reason, creating a family friendly garden is probably high up on your to-do list. If it is, then you’re going to need to remember a few things. Here are 5 important factors to consider when creating a family friendly garden. So many of which people always forget!
1. The Basics
You don’t want your children running around in long grass or being surrounded by potentially hazardous weeds. Before you start anything, it’s important to get the backyard cleared up. This means mowing the lawn for starters. You should mow it every few weeks during the summer, as it grows a lot quicker. Make sure you get rid of any weeds that have overgrown since you last ventured out into the garden. Some can be dangerous for kids. Replace the weeds with potted plants and flower beds, for the perfect, pretty little garden.
2. Privacy
You don’t really want your kids playing out in the garden for all the neighbours to see. Or perhaps even passers-by! It’s a good idea to consider how private your backyard is before you let the children loose out there. One option is to build a fence, but you may have to ask for permission first. Leyland Cypress privacy trees are another good idea, to keep out prying eyes. If you plant them close enough together, you also don’t need to worry about the kids wandering off.
3. Garden Tools
You should always keep your garden tools out of the reach of small hands. They are one of the biggest hazards in the garden, but also one of the most interesting to children. There are plenty of ways you can store your garden tools, depending on how big your backyard is. A locked shed is one of the best options. You can also make your own garden storage if there’s no room for a shed.
4. Furniture
Every good family friendly backyard should have furniture in it! Where else are people going to sit when you have a garden party? Lots of people forget about the furniture until the last minute. Then it’s a mad dash to find something that will fit the whole family round. Make sure you do your research and measure up the space you have available. You could create benches out of pallets for a cheap and unique option. Alternatively, buy the classic round table and chairs. Complete with parasol for protection from the sun.
5. Fun for the Kids
If you want to encourage your children to play outside more then you need to give them some kind of incentive. Create areas in the garden which are their designated play zones. It doesn’t have to be anything big or fancy. You don’t need to put up a treehouse if you don’t have the space! You could invest in some garden toys or a simple paddling pool. Just something which will let the children know they have their own space. So, go out and play!
This is a great list to print off and keep with you when you’re revamping the family garden. Don’t forget any of the essentials and you’ll all have the perfect summer. In your very own backyard!
Look at the tiny bell pepper that is growing:
Our cucumbers are growing:
