Our backyards are meant to be a relaxing and rejuvenating place to be, right? Being able to hang out outside and relax in the spring and summer is one of the best things that you can do. The kids can run around and play, while you read a book in the sunshine. But you won’t be able to relax and let your kids play if your garden is full of hazards. There are a lot of things in the garden that can be a danger to children, even if they might not seem like it at first. So if you want to get out and enjoy your garden in the summer months, make sure it is a safe and fun environment for your kids. Here are a few ideas to make your garden safer for curious kids.
Fix the fence
To be able to relax outside, and not have any fears of your children escaping, then you need to make sure that they don’t have a way to escape. Your current fence might have been damaged in a storm or is missing a panel. If so, it is a good idea to get it replaced. If the whole thing needs to be replaced, then make sure that you choose a wood fence design that will be suitable and keep your family safe. Look for one that is tall and will have a firm and solid base. Then you’ll get some extra privacy as well.
Secure Gates
If you’ve got the perfect fence that is nice and tall, then the chances are your kids won’t be able to climb over. But they could get to your gates and open them if they are left to their own devices. So you need to childproof the gates, just as you would for the kitchen or bathroom cabinets. You might need to get a padlock if you have especially wily children.
Protect From Thorns
Many bushes and plants grow with thorns. As pretty as they can be, they can be a massive hazard to children if they fall into them. Plus they can rip clothes and cause damage in that way too. If you aren’t precious about keeping the plants or bushes, then it is a good idea to just rip them up straight away. But if you want to keep them, then getting a covering or a way to cordon them off is a good idea. Then kids will keep away or at least, not be able to get to them.
Eliminate Poisons
Many of us will use pesticides or bleaches in our gardens. That is all very well. But with little ones around, we need to make sure that they are stored out of reach. It is also a good idea to check the flowers and plants that can be harmful. Even things like rhubarb leaves can be harmful, as well as peonies and lily of the valley. So do some research if you’re not sure and have a certain plant in the garden.
With these simple tips, you can make your garden safer for curious kids.