Small Child-Friendly Garden Ideas

If your kids are anything like mine they love trips out to parks, forests and beaches. But, for those lucky enough to have some outside space at home, exploring the garden can be just as much fun and an opportunity for little ones to enjoy a bit of freedom and burn some of that extra toddler energy.

Most of us don’t have acres to spare, so here are our top child-friendly garden ideas to help you make the most of your outdoor space for those little explorers!

Pick-Your-Own Plants

Outdoor spaces don’t have to be about big fancy swings and slides. Gardens that include a space (however small) where they can keep their own herbs and flowers that can be safely be planted, nurtured and collected are source of endless entertainment

Herbs like mint, rosemary, thyme, chives and basil are hardy enough to withstand regular picking. Keep an area for tools such as buckets, spades, seeds and labels. We’ve also had a lot of fun growing strawberries, tomatoes and sunflowers in the spring and summer.

Secret Spots

Children sometimes need spaces where they can retreat for some alone time (don’t we all!) Secret spots are also great for encouraging imaginative play and development of relationships

These spaces does not need to be entirely hidden from view, a space away from the main area of play or activity is usually enough.

If you build areas that are permanent it’s a good idea to make them spaces that you can also enjoy. Alternatively, you can create temporary spaces using tents, sheets and cushions that you don’t mind washing to create privacy and cosiness.

Pack-Away Playground

If you don’t have a huge amount of space a fold-away climbing frame is a great option. There are some awesome designs out there. We love the geodesic dome ‘jungle gym’.

If stored in a clean place they’re also great for indoor play on rainy days.

Outdoor Artists

Why do kids just love drawing on walls?? I have a theory that it’s the inner cave-person inside us all. Whatever the motivation it’s a strong creative desire in most toddlers (!) and outdoor spaces are a good place for them to express it.

Washable chalks and paints are a great way for kids to get their creative juices flowing. They’re affordable, don’t take up space and can all be easily washed after the funs over.

Small Worlds

Building and playing in a small sensory, fairy or animal garden can keep your little ones entertained for hours! We like to use spare planters and boxes.

Gather materials like soil, plants, flowers and stones and help them arrange them as they like. You can encourage them to plant and care for small plants. Let them add characters, special treasures and toys that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Then just sit back and watch them bring it all to life!

Small worlds are a great way to explore your little one’s interests, and encourage imaginative and creative play.

Clean Up!

Messy play is great fun! But you don’t want it all walked straight into the house. A small area by the door for cleaning up is a great way to encourage independence. You can find some great Montessori-inspired ideas here. We include a small dustbin and wipes for the kids to wash theirs hands and put rubbish. You can add their names to hooks and storage areas for a personal touch!

We hope you found this article useful and feel inspired to make the most of your outdoor space!

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