Anyone with kids knows how hard it is to get them away from the electronics and outside having fun. If you’re sick of hearing “I’m bored!” and find yourself saying “Go play outside!” on a loop, then the solution you’ve been searching for is a kid-friendly backyard in Lebanon, PA. There are a number of fun things that you can incorporate into your landscape design to make your kids want to breathe some fresh air, but there are also many safety features to consider as well. If you’re ready to make your landscape a place where kids can (and want!) to play outside safely, check out these essential design tips.
Pool Safety
What kid (and big kid at heart) doesn’t like to splash around in a pool? Installing an in-ground pool is an exciting way to get the kids outside every hot and sunny day. Don’t forget to have a safety gate installed around the perimeter to keep little ones out of harms way for a truly kid-friendly finish.
Cool Touch Pavers
A sun-warmed surface can be hot on little feet as they make their way to the pool. That’s why you should ask about the heat issue when choosing any new surface for your patio or pool deck. Traditionally, lighter colored materials stay cooler to the touch in direct sunlight, while darker colored materials tend to retain the heat (think of the difference between a black asphalt driveway and white concrete sidewalk). Ask about options for modern pavers that minimize the burn for bare feet.
Related: Ways Landscape Design Can Improve Neglected Allentown, PA, Poolscapes
Slip-Resistant Surfaces
Kids have a hard enough time keeping from getting hurt outside, but one way to prevent even more spills and tumbles is to make sure they have slip-resistant surfaces to play on. Consider choosing pavers that are specifically non-slip and that are permeable so that water won’t rest on the surface and create icy results. Then, you won’t have to worry about unplanned slips and slides.
Non-Toxic Plants
If you’ve ever been the parent to a toddler (or fur baby) you know that they will put anything and everything in their mouth. That’s why it’s important to make sure that all of your landscape plantings are non-toxic and kid-friendly. Ask your landscape pros which plants, flowers, and shrubs they would recommend adding to your landscape to create worry-free gardens and lawns.
Related: How a Paver Patio Can Reduce Your Allentown, PA, Landscape Maintenance
Safety Lighting
Let the fun continue after dark! Whether they want to play a nighttime game of tag, pickup basketball, or simply enjoy a night swim with friends, your kids need safety lighting. Pathway lighting, flood lights, and cool pool illumination can help your kids safely extend their play well after the sun has gone down. Ask your landscape pros what they would recommend for integrating safety lighting into your overall landscape plan, and you won’t be worried about leaving your little ones in the dark.
Keeping your kids safe at home is a priority for all parents, but baby-proofing your house and safeguarding doesn’t end at the back door. Consider a few of these landscape elements for making your backyard more kid-friendly and you’ll be able to send them into the great outdoors with confidence and ease.