A Guide to Creating a Kid-Friendly Backyard Adults Will Love Too
A kid-friendly backyard is so much more than just a design choice; it’s an escape, a personal playground where your children can unwind and feel like they’re on an adventure every single day.
Today I’m sharing a bunch of my favorite backyard ideas to help you create your very own kid-approved space.
Make Sure There’s Shade!
This is one part of an outdoor kid zone that you just can’t overlook. You absolutely need a spot that has plenty of shade, even when the sun is blazing on a hot summer afternoon.
Your little ones are way more sensitive to heat than you are, and they can easily get a chill after a few minutes in the rain. Ensuring the yard has a covered area lets them enjoy being outdoors no matter what the weather is doing.
A gorgeous and vibrant use of sails to provide backyard shade.
Add Treehouses and Teepees
Another really simple way to make the backyard so much more exciting for kids and adults is the teepee. It doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture out on the lawn or deck; you can take it down and pack it away so easily.
An even more thrilling and coveted hideout for children is the treehouse. I’ll admit, this one requires a lot more work to build, but it will be so worth the extra effort and money you put into it.
A treehouse built right into an oak tree, complete with a slide and sandbox, creates a dream play area.
A budget-friendly and simple method for making a backyard that kids will adore. [From: Annette Tatum]
Bring in Swings, Slides, and Water Fun
Do you have a little more room to work with and can afford to spend a bit more on this backyard refresh? If so, and you have a pool, I definitely suggest thinking about adding a slide to it.
Calling it something your kids will absolutely love is a total understatement, and sometimes, you can even get in on the action. A simple swing hanging from a sturdy tree branch is a much less pricey addition and, once again, will be a huge part of your kids’ best childhood memories.
Small water features that children can splash in and fun play equipment will complete this amazing, kid-approved yard.
Swings bring a feeling of fun and excitement to this little urban backyard. [From: Little Miracles Designs]
Find Storage for All the Toys
Custom built-in benches under a pergola or in a shaded spot are an absolute must-have for a yard filled with kids. These benches are great because they offer extra seating while also helping you clean up after playtime.
You can just tuck away all those toys, blocks, and everything else that comes out for an afternoon of fun.
A custom wooden bench in the yard also doubles as a handy storage spot. [From: Verner Architects]
A Sandbox Is Essential
I’m almost positive there isn’t a kid alive who doesn’t genuinely love spending time in a sandbox. You can literally watch them play for hours and hours in there without a single complaint or needing you to get involved.
A little sandbox in the yard is super simple to incorporate, and you can put it next to a few lovely potted plants for an even better sensory experience.
Add backyard features your kids are sure to love. [From: Mike Lanza]
Let Nature Be a Surprise
If your yard already has a garden, try not to scale it back too much. Sure, you might want to open up some room for new play equipment or that sandbox, but try to leave as many of those plants as you can.
If your child has an allergy to a certain plant, then you obviously need to get rid of that one right away. Otherwise, just let nature do its thing and shape a landscape that your little one will have fun exploring.
The sounds of birds and fluttering butterflies only make playing outside more magical!
A rustic backyard play zone with a sandbox framed by tree trunks and wooden logs. [From: Stout Design-Build]
Let the natural landscape form around the special kid-friendly features in your yard. [From: Barbara Simon Landscape Design]
Watch Them While You Relax
Even while you’re designing the perfect backyard that is amazing for the kids, don’t forget about your own needs. A comfy outdoor chair, or a few cushions that are in a great spot on the deck or patio is an absolute must.
This way, you can easily keep an eye on them while you also get to enjoy a lovely evening breathing in the fresh air.
Relax and watch the little ones as they have fun outdoors! [From: David Morello Garden Enterprises]
Check for Cracks and Hazards
Don’t forget to give the wooden deck a periodic look-over for any issues that might have developed. Small imperfections and cracks can turn into big injuries, and since the little ones are always running around, you’ll want a smooth, soft surface that keeps them as safe as possible.
It is also a smart idea to check the safety of any water features or a backyard fireplace from time to time to make sure there are no accidents.
This custom backyard playground in a Brooklyn home makes the most out of a tight space. [From: Little Miracles Designs]
Know What Your Kid Loves
I don’t need to tell you what makes your own child happy, because nobody knows them better than you do! Just think about what they gravitate toward every time you visit the local park or go out for a picnic.
This will give you a major clue about which features are non-negotiable for your own backyard. Don’t worry if space is a constraint; you can always find a way to fit things in once you have a solid plan.
Put a sandbox on the backyard deck to make it way more fun! [From: Ryan Duebber Architect]
