One of your top priorities as a parent is keeping your children safe. You childproof your home to prevent them from getting into accidents and teach them about Stranger Danger and other safety concerns. But what about when they want to play outside? It’s essential to create a safe outdoor play space for your children so that they can enjoy the fresh air without putting themselves in danger. Here are some tips on how to do just that.
Fenced In Yard
One of the most critical aspects of creating a safe outdoor play space for your children is ensuring the area is fenced in. A fence will not only keep your children contained within the designated play area, but it will also keep other animals and strangers out. If you have a pool, it should also be fenced in with a self-locking gate. If you live in an apartment or condo, there are still options for fencing in your outdoor play space; portable fences are available for purchase at most major retailers.
You can also use natural boundaries like bushes or trees to create a makeshift fence. Just ensure that there are no gaps your child could squeeze through. Consider adding a layer of chicken wire to the bottom of the fence to prevent small animals from getting into the space. This is also a good idea if you have larger pets that could potentially jump over the fence.
Outdoor Lighting
Many accidents happen outdoors because it’s not well-lit. Ensure that your outdoor play space is well-lit so your children can see where they’re going and avoid tripping over toys or obstacles. One way to achieve this is to install in-ground well lights around the perimeter of the space. These lights are aesthetically-pleasing, easy to install, and relatively inexpensive.
You can also string up outdoor lights like globe string lights or lanterns. Use light-colored bulbs in your outdoor lights to provide bright, clear light. Just ensure that the cords are out of reach of children, so they don’t accidentally pull them down. If you have an outdoor pool, consider installing underwater lights to make it easier to see at night.
Age-Appropriate Toys and Equipment
Another important consideration when creating a safe outdoor play space for your children is to choose age-appropriate toys and equipment. Smaller children should have larger, softer balls to play with, while older children can handle smaller balls. You should avoid sharp edges on all toys and equipment. If you’re unsure whether a toy or equipment is appropriate for your child’s age, err on the side of caution and choose something else.
You can look for age-appropriate toys and equipment at your local toy store or online. Many retailers sell outdoor toys and equipment specifically designed for different age groups. Some examples of age-appropriate outdoor toys and equipment include:
– Soft balls for younger children
– Hula hoops
– Jump ropes
– Bubbles
– Playhouses
– Slides
– Tea sets
– Puppets
Safe Flooring
When choosing flooring for your outdoor play space, safety is paramount. Concrete and asphalt can get very hot in the summer, so you should avoid them. Instead, opt for a material that will stay cooler in the heat. If you have a deck or porch, make sure that there are no loose boards or nails that could cause a child to trip and fall.
Rubber is an excellent choice for flooring because it’s durable and slip-resistant. It’s also easy to clean; just hose it down when it gets dirty. If you’re looking for a softer flooring option, consider using mulch or wood chips. These materials are also easy to clean and provide a softer surface for children to play on. But they can be a bit messy, so you may want to use them in conjunction with rubber flooring.
Supervision Is Key
Perhaps the most important tip when it comes to creating a safe outdoor play space for your children is to ensure that someone is always supervising them while they’re playing. Children can get into trouble quickly, so it’s essential to have someone nearby who can intervene if necessary. If you can’t be outside with your children, consider hiring a babysitter or asking a neighbor or family member to keep an eye on them while they’re playing.
Following these tips will help you create a safe outdoor play space for your children so that they can enjoy the fresh air without putting themselves in danger. Fencing in the area, installing outdoor lights, choosing appropriate toys and equipment, and adult supervision are crucial elements to consider when childproofing your yard or patio. By taking these precautions, you’ll give your children the gift of being able to explore and play without worry—and that’s priceless.
