Oh baby! If you have a little one in your household or are expecting one soon – congratulations! Now is the time to start thinking about the changes you will need to make to keep the youngest member safe and happy. No need to keep them out of the fresh air and sunshine. With spring just around the corner, consider using these best bets for a baby friendly backyard that the entire family is sure to enjoy.
Made in the Shade
Because baby’s skin is so delicate and prone to burn, you need to provide plenty of shady areas in your outdoor space. Luckily, there are plenty of options and one or more that will be a perfect fit for your baby friendly backyard. From market umbrellas to sail shades to covered loungers, your little one is sure to stay safe from UV rays no matter where he or she toddles or crawls.
A cantilever patio umbrella is always a good choice no matter the configuration of your yard or patio. It can be permanently installed or mobile. The ability to bend the pole so that it provides shade exactly where you need it makes it one of the best bets for a baby friendly backyard. If you choose one with a brightly colored canopy, it will be sure to catch your wee one’s eye.
Smooth, Soft Surfaces
For a baby friendly backyard soft on her knees, a patch of grass (real or artificial) is an excellent outdoor surface. Be sure to keep it free of prickly weeds and any plants that may be dangerous to chew on.
If grass is out of the question or simply takes too much precious water to maintain, a large outdoor rug is the next best alternative. Stay away from jute or sisal, which can create burns on baby’s feet or knees. Instead, a polypropylene material, such as olefin, is a softer, smoother choice. It also holds up well in nearly any weather conditions and can be spot cleaned, as necessary.
If there is only concrete in your backyard, you can always toss a large, soft blanket over the top and anchor the edges so baby doesn’t accidentally wander off and skin his knees.
Comfy Lounge Corner
Try setting up a corner of the yard specifically for a baby friendly backyard area. Ensure it is shaded by trees or an outdoor umbrella and there is plenty of open space where your little one can freely roam without worry.
Keep large pieces of furniture out of this lounge corner and anything that can easily be toppled. Flowers are a lovely addition as long as you keep them out of baby’s reach, either in pots on top of a wall or sturdy side table or hanging from hooks.
If your comfy lounge corner is contained in a walled or fenced area, you may want to consider adding a rail to help your baby learn to walk with the aid of handy supports.
These are some of your best bets for a baby friendly backyard where you can rest easy knowing your little one will stay safe and enjoy the outdoors.
