How to Create a Family Friendly Garden During Lockdown

3rd May 2020

Spending long days at home cooped up indoors can take its toll on most people’s mental health after a while, especially if you have children at home. Having a family friendly garden which you can enjoy when the weather is nice can be an absolute lifesaver. While it may seem like you need to put in a lot of work in initially, there is no denying you can reap the rewards year after year if you put in a little effort regularly to keep on top of any garden maintenance.

If you’re a bit stuck for ideas on turning your outdoor space into a family-friendly oasis for those warmer days, then we can help you out with some ideas on creating a child-friendly outdoor space that is pleasing to both kids and adults alike.

Here are our tips for creating a family friendly garden

1. Create A Vegetable Patch

A great way to get children involved in working in the garden is to create a little patch where you can start to grow some easy fruits and vegetables.

You don’t need a big area, and if you are stuck for space, you can always get something raised like a veg trug. Getting the kids involved means that not only are you getting them outdoors and staying active, but giving them a responsibility.

By involving them and working with them to nurture and grow your seeds into edible food, you are helping to teach them valuable skills they can take with them for life.

2. Throw Some Shade

Whilst you may love being out in the sun all day, younger children especially can suffer if they are in direct sunlight for too long, especially during the hottest part of the day.

A truly family friendly garden needs to have some kind of shaded area where kids can relax and play out of the direct harmful rays of the sun. Maybe this could be on a patio area that leads to the house where you can add an awning or pergola, or consider building a summer house which can be put to multiple uses throughout the year.

Add in some seating – an outdoor patio set or garden furniture for the whole family to relax on and make the most of your outdoor space by making it almost like another room in your house.

3. Make it Fun With An Activity Zone

If you are lucky enough to have a large garden, then why not dedicate a section to housing outdoor equipment?

Football goals, trampolines, summer houses or climbing frames and swing sets are all typical items found in family friendly gardens. When it comes to designing a family friendly garden, make sure to factor in space to house any future play equipment.

If you have a lawn in this area of your garden, make sure you keep it in the best condition you can. Regular mowing and making sure you use the right type of grass seed for your lawn will help keep the lawn green and lush for years to come regardless of what you use the space for.