Lancaster Homes Inc.

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+1 647-629-5876

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Creating a Family-Friendly Backyard: Ideas and Inspirations

 

Family Dining Outdoor

Transforming your backyard into a summer retreat for kids and adults can be a delightful project that enhances family time and entertainment. Imagine a space where children can unleash their creativity and energy while adults can relax, socialize, and unwind. Whether planning a quiet afternoon with the family or hosting a lively gathering, these ideas will help you create a fun and functional backyard.

Kid-Friendly Corners

Art Stations

Outdoor Paint Station

Let’s start with a splash of creativity! You can set up an art station with one or two sections to cater to artistic endeavours. For a paint station, offer easels or an area with Crayola washable paint and a roll of packing paper. This setup encourages kids to explore their artistic side without worrying about permanent messes. They can paint freely, and you can easily replace the paper.

Outdoor Chalkboard Station

Alternatively, consider a chalk art section as a fantastic option. Create your chalkboard using wood or gypsum boards and chalkboard paint from your local hardware store. Frame the board with 3x8s for a polished finish. It makes it easy to carry and relocate in the backyard. This chalkboard is perfect for children’s drawings and can double as a family activity centre for games like Pictionary. You can seal the chalkboards for outdoor durability, or when colder weather arrives, bring the chalkboard indoors as a handy to-do or reminder board.

Ring Toss and Bean Bags

Kids Playing Ring Toss

There is nothing like a classic ring toss and rings. Amazon offers a great colourful set with bean bags, adding to the fun. We love this set’s vibrant colours and safety vs glass bottles, making it enjoyable for kids of all ages. These activities encourage kids to stay active and develop their coordination skills.

Kids’ Reading and Game Corner

Kids Playing with Lego Outdoor

Create a sheltered, shaded area to keep kids cool while they enjoy quiet time or play games. Stock this area with various toys, board and card games, including classics like Sorry, Connect Four, Scrabble, Uno, and Jenga. This corner can also double as a cozy reading nook, perfect for lazy summer afternoons.

Water Station

Water Slide

Keep the kids cool and entertained with a dedicated water station. Include a little wading pool for splashing around, a sprinkler system for running through, or a water table for the little ones to develop their sensory skills. If you have room, an inflatable splash pad and a water slide are fantastic additions to keep the kids active and refreshed during hot days. Add bubble play with a bin full of bubble kits and bubble wands for fun and whimsy.

Adult Retreats

Reading Nooks

Reading in Hammock

While the kids are entertained, parents can enjoy quiet time in a cozy reading nook. Find a shaded spot in your backyard and add a comfortable lounge chair or hammock. Surround the area with potted plants or a small garden to create a tranquil atmosphere. Having a little table nearby for your book and a refreshing drink is a nice touch. Everyone needs a hammock, too—it’s an excellent addition for unwinding and enjoying a lazy afternoon with a good book. Add a wind chime nearby for a Zen sound that overlaps with the kids playing in the background.

Social Sitting Area

Seating Area

A social sitting area is essential for those who love to entertain. Arrange outdoor furniture in a circle or semicircle to encourage conversation. Comfortable seating, such as outdoor sofas or cushioned chairs, will make guests feel at home. Adding a small outdoor gas fireplace can extend the usability of this space into the cooler months, as well as patio lights or lanterns for an inviting glow in the evening.

Cooling Station

Beverage Station

Keep everyone refreshed with a designated cooling station. A stylish outdoor bar cart with beverages and ice can be a game-changer during hot summer days. Include a variety of drinks – from kid-friendly juices to adult beverages. Don’t forget to have plenty of water and some fun, fruity options for a healthy twist. 

Family Entertainment

Mini Putt

Mini Putt Kit

Mini putt is a fantastic addition that appeals to both kids and adults. If you don’t have a lawn in your backyard, no worries! Plenty of mini-putt kits are available that are easy to set up and take down, allowing you to create a designated mini-putt area. This setup can be a fun, competitive activity for family and friends, ensuring endless entertainment.

Outdoor Theatre

Backyard Theatre

Ah, the outdoor theatre—an epic spot for movie nights, video game competitions under the stars or viewings of soccer games like the Euros and Copa America! Set up your projector and a large screen (or get creative with a blank wall or white sheet) for a night of entertainment that’s both cozy and lively. Add pillows and throws to maximize comfort.  It’s a fun addition on outdoor gatherings that everyone can enjoy!

Creating a family-friendly backyard involves finding the perfect balance between children’s play areas and spaces for adults to relax and socialize. You can create an entertaining outdoor space that everyone will love by designing distinct zones for play, relaxation, and socializing. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and make the most of your summer months with family in your backyard!