If you’re anything like me, you will have been looking forward to summer for months. Warmer weather is finally here, and what better way to celebrate than getting out into the garden? If you’re looking forward to spending time with your grandchildren like I am, here are some tips to create a grandchild-friendly garden.
Image courtesy of https://www.pexels.com/photo/girl-sitting-on-grass-smelling-white-petaled-flower-1879288/
Removing hazards
Safety first should always be the motto when designing a garden that is suitable for young children. I love to have my grandchildren to stay and there’s nothing better than getting into the garden, playing in the sunshine, and letting them run off steam in the fresh air. If your garden isn’t quite the haven you dream of, there are some very simple ways to make your outdoor space safer. One problem many homeowners face is overgrown trees, stumps, and branches that have died and started to rot. If you have issues with trees, it’s best to seek advice from a reputable, reliable tree company. It’s also important to think about minimising slips and trips by repairing damaged flooring and levelling the ground if you have pathways or patios. It can also be helpful to block off areas that could be dangerous for small children, for example, ponds.
Having fun together
If like me, your grandchildren keep you on your toes, it’s wonderful to have a place where you can play together and enjoy quality time outdoors. There are lots of ways to have fun and create a garden that is a perfect base for playing games or sports. You can go all-out with the fun factor and add sunken sandpits, adventure playgrounds or swings or slides, you can create a mini-golf course, football pitch or basketball court or you can keep things simple with a well-maintained lawn that can provide a base for outdoor games and activities.
Creating adult and child-friendly zones
I like to use my garden for several different purposes and I know many of my friends and neighbours are the same. We like to garden, entertain, read and relax, socialise, enjoy outdoor hobbies and embrace the peace and quiet. Our gardens have to be versatile spaces to tick all of the boxes. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to create a space that delivers on every level.
Designing different zones is a brilliant idea if you have kids or grandchildren, you like to entertain and relax in your garden or you have interests, such as growing produce, doing yoga or fitness classes outside, or reading and writing. You can use different materials, such as gravel, paving, decking and turf to section off distinctive zones and you can add lighting and accessories to vary the ambiance in each area. From chic sofa sets, standing lanterns, and outdoor cushions for a smart entertaining zone to throws and blankets, string lights and hammocks, and bean bags for a cool, child-friendly chill-out area, you can cater to every occasion.
Picture from https://pixabay.com/photos/girl-garden-ipad-tree-green-fence-1283082/
Summer is here, and I can’t wait to spend sunny days in the garden with my grandchildren. If you’re keen to make the most of the summer, why not take these tips on board?
