Summer is fast approaching and your little ones are likely to want to start spending more time in your back garden as the weather improves and they have longer periods of time off school. But things aren’t quite as simple as opening the back door and letting them out to play. You need to ensure that everything is safe and ready to go before setting them loose! Here are a few things that you can do in preparation!
Securing the Perimeters
We all know how much little kids love an adventure and sometimes this means trying to work their way out of your garden at all costs. Who can blame them? They want to see what lies beyond the space they’re confined to. However, for the sake of their safety and your peace of mind, you need to ensure that the perimeters of your garden are secure. The best way to do this is to survey your fencing regularly. All of your fence panels should be intact with no breaks, holes or even splinters. If you find a problem, you need to replace the panels as quickly as possible. Don’t let your little ones out until the problem is rectified. If you have a gate that allows access in and out of the garden, it’s also worth investing in a padlock so that it can only be opened by you and other adults in your garden.
Do Your Research Before Planting Anything
Of course, we all want our gardens to be beautiful as possible. Achieving this generally means planting flowers, trees, and other forms of foliage. However, it’s extremely important that you do your research before purchasing any bulbs, seeds, or sprouts and placing them in your garden. Why? Many plants can prove poisonous if consumed. Now, adult-only households don’t tend to have to worry about this. Nobody’s going to head out and start snacking on the greenery. But little ones and even some animals won’t know any better and might attempt it. So, consider what you can create with non-toxic plants only. Species such as dahlia, African Daisy, and Californian Poppy are all stunning options that are child-friendly and safe!
Levelling Paving Stones
Paving stones should be flat and smooth. However, adverse weather conditions and years of use and wear can cause them to shift and become unlevel. It’s important that you rectify this situation immediately should it arise. Why? If you don’t you’ll be faced with regular grazed knees and elbows, as little ones trip on the uneven surface while they run around and play. The process isn’t the most convenient and chances are that it will cost a fair amount of money, it’s a necessity and something that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
There are, of course, other steps to take to secure your garden for your children but these are some of the necessary basics. Remember to always supervise them while they are at play outdoors too! As this will help you to prevent accidents and effectively deal with situations as soon as they do occur.