Transforming your backyard into an exciting outdoor space for kids does not have to be a complicated process that takes a lot of energy and money to complete. If you plan well and begin with a simple starting point, creating a fun outdoor area in which the kids will love to hang out this summer will be easy.
According to The Spruce, most parents might be inclined to include "all the bells and whistles" for a fun backyard. However, the needs of the kids are very simple. They want a space to walk, run, climb, swing, and fly, as well as build, explore and pretend.
The backyard transformation does not need to happen in one day, and the parents might even include the kids in the building project if they are old enough to help.
Here are some suggestions:
1. Put stump steps on the ground.
Stump steps help the kids learn balance and improve their agility skills. The stumps could also become extra seating in the backyard.
If you know someone who trims trees for a living, perhaps they can donate scrap stumps. If dad is skilled at cutting stumps, he can do the project himself. Make sure these are spaced far enough so the kids will be challenged and encouraged to walk the path.
2. Build a sandbox.
Bob Vila has a DIY guide for creating a sandbox in the backyard for those with little construction or woodworking experience. Kids love to play in the sandbox. It improves their fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination by scooping, sifting, molding, and dumping. They also creatively play and develop social skills when hanging out on the sandlot with their siblings, neighbors, and guests.
For other options, the sandbox may also be filled with actual dirt or topsoil or some rocks and stones used for landscaping. Mud play can benefit kids' gut health, creativity, and emotional development.
3. Create an arts and crafts sensory area.
Many sensory arts and crafts activities are done better in the backyard because parents do not have to worry about cleaning after the mess. All this area needs are some easel, painting materials, and a sensory table that may be filled with water, sand, beads, slime, and anything you can think of.
Messy sensory play and art is also great for summers outdoors because it will dry up faster. However, make sure to put the sensory table and the easel and paint material indoors in case there's the occasional summer rain.
4. Install a tree swing or spinner.
Consider installing a tree swing or spinner if you have a solid and sturdy tree in the backyard. According to Little Tikes, this is a sure way to encourage the children to spend time outside instead of staying at home and playing with gadgets all summer.
When kids play outdoors, they strengthen their bones and muscles and boost their body's immunity by savoring the benefits of vitamin D from the sun. They also reduce their risks of developing obesity.
Make sure that the kids use sunscreen if they play in the backyard to protect their skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.
5. Set up some tracks.
Whether for toy cars or boats, a race track will always give the kids a thrilling activity. Though race tracks are traditional toys for boys, even girls have a competitive streak, so they will also enjoy playing on the tracks in the backyard.
Up the ante by hosting a contest where the kids may win a simple prize. For instance, the winner may choose where the family can have their next dine out or what movie they should watch together on Saturday evening.
