Are you guilty of using technology as a way to distract and keep your kids engaged? Then know that you are not alone. Many parents are guilty of letting gadgets babysit their kids even if they know too much screen time is bad. So, what can you do to encourage active play and make your kids enjoy the outdoors?
There are lots of things that can help solve your dilemma. But here’s the good news: you can make your kids get off their tablets and start spending more time playing outdoors by making certain home improvements. Here are a few examples of the projects you can invest in to encourage more outdoor playtime.
Install a backyard fence.
Before, fences were used to determine property lines. But these days, a fence offers more benefits other than drawing a neat border between your property and neighbors. It helps add aesthetics and privacy to your home while improving home security. By adding a fence in your backyard, you will have that peace of mind knowing your kids will stay inside your property. You also get to choose between different types, including iron, picket, wood, or vinyl fencing in Utah.
Say yes to grass lawns.
Most parents are afraid their kids will trip and hurt themselves while playing outdoors. If this is the case, then you can always landscape your backyard with grass. It will not only make your yard a safe playground but also add aesthetic appeal to your yard. A grass-covered backyard is also a good place to go on a picnic with the kids, even if you have no time to go outside the house.
Plant trees.
Trees do not only offer shade during sunny days. Having a tree or two in your backyard also helps cool down your home in the summer. By planting plants and trees with your kids in your garden, you can teach them about responsibility. It will help them get to know more about nature and learn how to be mindful of their surroundings. You can encourage them by saying they can build a treehouse once the tree is big and sturdy enough.
Add a few pieces of outdoor furniture.
Give your kids a cozy place to chill by adding comfortable chairs and a table out in the yard. You can use this area to serve their snacks after a fun and active play. Your children can color, read books, and even entertain their friends in the yard by placing more chairs. While your kids are busy playing, you can also have easy access to comfy seats.
Say yes to natural playscapes.
Kids will surely love playing in the backyard more if you provide them with more things to do outside. So why not add a contemporary landscape in your garden? A natural playscape allows children to stay engaged, explore, and enjoy more time out in the yard. You can include things like water, sand, plants, and rocks. If you’re not sure how to create a natural playscape, you can always ask the pros to do it for you.
Motivating kids to go out in the backyard and play does not have to be difficult. You can even use this opportunity to improve your yard as if you’re hitting two birds with one stone.
