With children in the household, the backyard effectively becomes their kingdom. More than a relaxing area for the adults and guests, it inevitably turns into a playground and a place to explore. That being so, here are six tried-and-true ways to turn your backyard into a real children’s heaven.

Hang up some swings

Swings are a quintessential element of any kid-friendly backyard. They are fun to play on, low-maintenance, and great as a resting spot too. If you have a sturdy tree, or space to install a proper frame, make sure to hang a few.

You have several options that are proven favourites. You could install traditional swings with wooden seats. You might opt for reusing old vehicle tires. For extra creativity points, use old chairs instead. Paint them the kids’ favourite colours and secure them with strong rope or chains.

Set up a home camp

Backyard adventures will never go out of style. Build a home base campsite to get that feeling even if your kids are too young for proper camping trips. It’s an excellent way to introduce them to the great outdoors while still staying safe.

Find a nice, level spot in the yard to set up a tent. Alternatively, build a teepee for a more permanent nook. Involve your kids in the process and teach them what part serves what purpose in real tents or teepees.

For extra flair, consider an outdoors table and home fire pit. Just be aware of the legislation: for instance, Australia has some specific restrictions on outdoor burning, air pollution, and the like. Take the time to check if a backyard fire pit is legal in your area and make sure you comply with relevant fire safety regulations.

Make it a natural space

The best backyard play areas are simple and natural. Before installing any equipment, lay some proper turf. There are professional lawn mowing and gardening services that can help you with the labour or just with expert advice. A quality lawn can withstand all the stomping, trampling, balls, etc. It also provides a soft landing and a cosy surface to lounge on.

Utilise tree stumps, stepping stones, driftwood, and pruning waste. Turn them into natural seating areas, cool paths, obstacle courses, etc. challenge the children to craft things out of leftover branches and twigs.

Plant a sensory garden

You can make an amazingly stimulating space - or, conversely, a calming area for a child that has sensory processing issues. Consider sight, smell, sound, and texture.

Grow bright flowers or multicoloured leafy shrubs for visual stimulation, or choose muted greens for a calming effect. Position long-bladed decorative grasses where they can rustle in the breeze. Consider plants that will yield rattling seed pods, like poppies.

Plant sage, aloes, or lamb’s ear to stimulate the kids’ sense of touch. Tickle their noses with fragrant flowers, and include taste in the mix by growing herbs like mint or easy fruit like strawberries.

Build a treehouse

Treehouses are a staple favourite around the world for kids and adults alike. In fact, in Australia, they’re a whole genre of home architecture. Your kids will love a mini-home all their own.

Treehouses are great fun as well as helpful in child development. Climbing around and encouraging creative play scenarios fosters the development of your kids’ gross and fine motor skills, overall imagination, cooperation, and affinity for the natural world.

Provide fun shelter

Seeing as hot summers are peak season for children’s play, you want to provide adequate shade in your backyard. Trees are always a good choice. If you have none, and can’t really wait for new ones to grow, consider installing some attractive alternatives.

Pergolas, canopies, and colourful umbrellas are universally enjoyable. Bolster them with pretty vines or appealing designs. To make the kids more likely to stay in the spot, include a sandbox, swing, or play table. An appealing shelter will also get your kids outside for fresh air on rainy days.

Making a backyard kid-friendly comes down to purposeful planning. Lay good turf and use natural materials to make it safe for all the tumbles and scrapes. Install some good shades and choose plants that will suit your kids’ sensory preferences. Staples like treehouses and swings always go over well, and you can even make a backyard campsite for extra adventure.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith