Creating a child-friendly garden means you should design a layered and diverse planting scheme and include wild animals. You should also make spaces for your children to create their own hideouts and dens.

Design a layered and diverse planting scheme

Using design principles, such as scale and repetition, you can create a layered, multi-tiered garden that will be both visually appealing and functional. Here are a few tips to get you started.

The scale of your plantings will affect how many plants you should use. Taller, columnar shapes will work best. A good mix of round, medium, and flat shapes will also reduce weeding. You should also think about incorporating plants that fix nitrogen in the soil, such as legumes.

Another important part of landscape layering is depth. You will want to create some privacy, but you will also need to leave space for wildlife. You can achieve this by building in areas for pollinators and other wildlife, and layering your garden in densely.

For a more visually pleasing garden, consider the rewilding trend. This is a trend of using native plants that establish in the best environmental conditions. In 2022, this will be a high priority for designers. For example, an edible hedge will maximize photosynthesis per square foot of garden space.

Include wild animals and insects

Creating a child-friendly garden that includes wild animals and insects is a great way to teach children about the wonders of nature while at the same time engaging them in a fun activity. There are many ways to do this, from building a backyard garden that incorporates native wildflowers and vegetation to creating an animal sanctuary where kids can go to enjoy the outdoors without fear of stepping on a snake or spooking an owl.

In addition to the usual bird feeder and fruit trees, a wildlife friendly backyard is filled with natural habitats such as tree stumps, shelter areas, bushes and vegetation. It can even contain bird baths, bat boxes and other whimsical wildlife features to attract a variety of local birds and insects.

If you have children, consider incorporating the many things that a backyard can offer them, such as picnics, nature walks, and outdoor games. You can also introduce them to animals through books, educational cartoons, or animal toys, all of which can teach them about the wonders of the world.

Create spaces for kids to make their own hideouts and dens

Creating spaces for kids to make their own hideouts and dens in your garden is a fun way to promote imaginative play. Young children are often solitary creatures, and they need places to play and discover their own interests. These spaces can also be used for quiet, relaxing activities and for repairs or redecorating.

Dens can be made from a variety of materials. You can purchase kits for building dens online or you can create them yourself. If you are an experienced den builder, you can use natural materials for a more eco-friendly hideout.

A simple indoor den can be built from a large armchair or sofa. You can add a sheet to give it a more sturdy structure. You can fasten the sheet using clothespins or tape. Alternatively, you can add a waterproof groundsheet for added protection. You can also add a few ropes for support.

You can also plant climbing plants, bamboo teepee structures or a natural branch structure to create a garden den. If your garden is small, you can use woven hazel screens or heather panels for screening.

Designate a small portion of the garden for adults

Creating a child friendly garden requires that you designate a small portion of your garden for adults. This will allow them to enjoy the space without worrying about the children. Also, it will teach your children how to respect quiet times. This is important, as children are often tempted to wander around the garden at any time.

Your child-friendly garden should include a range of plants and shrubs. This will provide different tastes, which will stimulate your kids’ taste buds and curiosity. It’s also important to be aware of the risks associated with toxic plants. Toxic plants are rare, but they can cause skin reactions and poison pets and humans.

You can also create a wildlife garden for your children to explore. This will provide hours of fun and entertainment. You can discuss with your children which animals they’d like to invite to your garden. You can also paint a blackboard wall to help them learn more about the wildlife.