Structures + Safety
Creating a Child-Friendly Garden

Creating a Child-Friendly Garden

Making a child-friendly garden isn't just about avoiding dangerous plants. By giving children their own area and activities they can get lots of fresh air and healthy exercise. They can also help you in the garden - children like doing things and there is always lots to do!

Safety
Always keep tools and garden chemicals out of reach of small hands.

Outdoor toys such as swings and climbing frames can lead to falls, so it's vital to have a safe surface below any fixture.

If you have a sand pit, cover it when it's not in use to keep the local cats out. Worm your pets regularly to avoid exposing your children to potentially dangerous parasites.

Ponds and small children don't mix - replace an open pond with a safe water feature or fit a safety grill. See Simple Water Features for more ideas.

Be aware which plants are poisonous in your garden. Yew, foxglove, daphne and laburnum are obvious examples that should be avoided. Spiky plants and plants with thorns can also cause damage. See Creating a Pet-Friendly Garden and Safety and Security in the Garden for other security tips.

Fun
Encourage your children to dig their own area of soil, sow some seeds and grow their own plants. Choose seeds which germinate and grow quickly like nasturtium so your kids don't lose interest. And don't forget vegetables - peas grow quickly and your kids will enjoy eating the results! Colourful and quick-growing radishes are also good choices.
 
 

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