Did you know that The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that, beginning at age 6, children get at least an hour of physical activity a day?
In today’s technology-driven world, adults and children alike are becoming more and more sedentary. But a sedentary lifestyle is linked to all sorts of health problems later in life, and therefore should be avoided at all costs.
Set your children up for success by creating the ultimate kid zone in your backyard! With the following backyard playground ideas, your little ones will be leaving the iPads behind in favor of the great outdoors, giving you both peace and quiet and peace of mind.
If you’re looking for some ideas to give your kids a fun space to play in your backyard, just keep reading!
1. Tree Swing/Swing Set
Swings are a playground essential. And they’re a great place to start because they’re an inexpensive addition to your backyard playground. With just a tree, a couple of pieces of rope, and a wooden board, you have a swing!
If you want to get a bit fancier, you can buy a playground, many of which come with swings, a slide, even a climbing wall! Your kiddos will be occupied outside for hours on end.
2. Sandbox
Sandboxes are another piece of outdoor play equipment that can be DIY’d or purchased. By just connecting 4 boards in a square and filling it in with a few bags of sand, you have a sandbox!
To take the sandbox fun further, throw in some beach toys like sandcastle molds and shovels, or even some kitchen utensils, as long as they’re not hazardous. Sandboxes are an excellent way to promote creativity in your children while getting them outside and active at the same time.
3. Chalkboard Walls
Continuing with the creative activities, if you have a fence, consider painting the side facing your yard with chalkboard paint! Or install a ready-made chalkboard somewhere between the posts.
Chalk is inexpensive and can be used on many outdoor surfaces other than a chalkboard, as a hose or the next rainstorm will wash it away!
4. Play Campsite
If you have a mini outdoorsman on your hands, consider setting up a play campsite in your yard! Set up a tent or teepee, arrange pieces of wood as campfire chairs, maybe even hang a hammock or set out a toy fire or grill.
A play campsite is great for make-believe play, and can even help you teach your children good camping habits if that’s a hobby you would be interested in starting as a family.
5. Treehouse
Is there anything more classic than a treehouse? Treehouses are historically a haven for children. They’re great for everything from playing pirate ship to doing homework to hanging out with friends in their own space.
To make treehouses even better, the possibilities are endless! You can add a slide, a fireman’s pole, a climbing wall, a telescope, anything that tailors the treehouse to your child’s interests and personality.
6. Throwing Practice Wall
Activities that are more sports-related aren’t for every child, but if your little one would rather throw a ball than draw on a chalkboard, this could be the perfect thing to add to your backyard playground!
All you need is a tarp or if you’re on the handy side, a piece of plywood. Simply cut holes in your chosen material and label them with a point system or different colored tape or paints.
7. Badminton Court
A badminton court is a great option for backyard play because it takes very little space and offers low-risk sports-related exercise. This is because badminton birdies are extremely light, so you don’t have to worry about anyone accidentally getting hit with the ball.
You don’t even need a net for badminton! All you need is a couple of rackets, a birdie, and maybe some paint to make a “court” in the grass.
8. Splash Pad/Other Water Feature
Splash pads may sound a little extreme but offer a ton of fun in the summer months. And they’re far less expensive/hazardous than a swimming pool, so if you have the space and resources, why not!
If a splash pad doesn’t sound right for you, consider a sprinkler, a slip ‘n’ slide, or other water feature. Even water guns or balloons! There’s nothing more entertaining for kids on a hot day than playing in water.
You’ll be shocked to discover how long they remain occupied and how much fun they have splashing around in the backyard.
9. Zip Line
A zip line is another activity that may not be for everyone, as it’s a little dangerous compared to a swing set. But if you and your children are on the adventurous side, your kids will have a blast speeding across the yard on a zip line.
Just keep in mind that zip lines need to be maintained every now and then to ensure they remain safe.
10. Climbing Wall
Similar to zip lines, installing a climbing wall isn’t necessarily for the faint of heart. But climbing offers both a strength and cardio exercise in one, as well as being a fun time!
The best part is, climbing walls can be used by both the children and the adults in your home. As long as you lay a crash pad beneath it for safety, especially for smaller kids, climbing is a safe and exciting activity for everyone!
Make Your House the Place to Be With These Backyard Playground Ideas
Well, there you have it! With any of these backyard playground ideas, you’ll not only give your kids the time of their lives but all of their friends as well!
And if you have space, mix it up! Install a swing set, a throwing practice wall, and a sandbox, for example. That way, there’s something for every type of kid.
If you and your family are adventurers, make it a mini outdoorsman’s dream with a play campsite, a climbing wall, and a zipline. You and your kids will have a ball for hours and get plenty of exercise in the process, making your family happier and healthier.
Looking for more tips on creating kid-friendly spaces? Check out our other blog posts!
