Summertime is near, and that’s the perfect time of year for quality family time and making some memories.  Quality time is good regardless of whether you’re planning to go away on vacation or just hanging out enjoying in your own back yard. The lighter evenings and warmer temperatures are perfect for play activities with your little ones.  Naturally, you want to keep them safe from any harm. Toddlers are into everything by nature.  However, we want them to have fun exploring, not end up in tears. So if you’re experiencing summer with an active toddler, here are a few things to check when creating a child safe garden:

Pad Out Patio Sets

Outdoor furniture is designed to be durable and robust.  But, not always with a child safety as a primary concern. Some garden furniture can be made of metal.  As a result, check any rusted edges that you will need to remove. Additionally,  if you have a wooden set make sure that it doesn’t require sanding and sealing again.  Sanding and sealing will prevent little fingers from getting splinters.  Check out sofa sets for patios that featured padded cushioning, soft edges and no protruding bars to help keep your children safe.

Cover Metal Fixtures

Uncovered metal fixtures such as taps, hoses, etc. can heat to sizzling temperatures.  So, make sure you keep them covered to stop little hands from getting burnt.  Hoses can moved to shady corners.  If there are taps sticking out from the wall, consider padding it temporarily.  A wad of cotton and some rubber bands should do the trick. And if you do have any external power outlets, invest in plastic socket covers.  They will stop young children from poking stuff into the outlet.

Check the Planting Scheme

Sometimes those pretty flowers and shrubs you admired before children can turn into a hazard.  Especially, when you have toddlers who like to put interesting things in their mouth!  Some plants can be poisonous when ingested by small children or animals.  So, you should have a pre-emptive sweep of the garden and get rid of any offenders.

It’s worth knowing that kids don’t necessarily have to eat the leaves or flowers on shrubs.  Just touching them and then putting their fingers in their mouths can cause illness.  Plants to look out for are Giant Hogweed, often found along riverbanks and paths can  cause skin blistering and even blindness.  Also, Bluebells, Chili Peppers, Lily-of-the-Valley, Foxgloves which contain Digitoxins, Poinsettia, Hyacinths, Iris and Ivy can be harmful.  Always make sure your child washes their hands thoroughly after a playing in the garden.

Secure Play Structures

Many of us like to add play equipment for kids to enjoy in our gardens.  This includes climbing frames, slides, swings and sandpits.  These items need careful attention to ensure they are safe.  Furthermore, make sure the structure is placed on completely level ground.  This will ensure that the equipment is stable and won’t fall over. Bumpy grass or natural inclines in the ground can cause equipment to shift over time.  So, it’s best to place them on a sold surface if possible.  Unfortunately, there may be changes to the ground over time.  So, check the equipment periodically as part of your normal garden maintenance.

When shopping for playsets, make sure that you purchase equipment that has accredited child safety standards.  As a result, you know they are constructed with quality material and with safety as a primary concern.  Most importantly, only let your child play on equipment that is appropriate for their age.  If you need to pad things temporarily, cheap foam pool noodles can be cut to size.  Simply, slit in the pool noodle in the middle to grip onto edges and bars.

Reconsider Gravel

Although gravel is attractive and low-maintenance, it can also hurt toddlers who are prone to falling over.  If you do have large patches of gravel, consider replacing it with turf.  Grass provides a much softer landing for little knees and hands.  Plus its kinder for the environment.  If you don’t want the hassle of mowing, look into artificial grass substitutes.  Artificial grass has come a long way.  Now it looks more lifelike than ever.  Also, it stops family pets from digging up real grass.

Be Careful of Water Features

It goes without saying that even small water features are a hazard.  Children can drown in a couple of inches of water.  Furthermore, if you live near an open water course install a strong fence with a childproof lock to keep them away from the water unsupervised.  It’s not just drowning risks you need to consider either, standing or stagnant water can be a magnet for bacteria and insects.  Bacteria and insects can be harmful to children.

If you have a family pool, its better to have a locked, fenced area around it.  Make sure children know that they should never enter without an adult. Even small inflatable paddling pools require kids to be supervised.  You should empty them completely after each use.

Store Equipment and Tools Safely

Gardens can contain tools, equipment, and chemicals that can be  dangerous if not stored securely.  Make sure you’re able to store everything securely.  When you’re barbecuing, never let children play unattended when the grill is hot.  Make sure the kids are supervised while you’re cooking.  If you use a gas grill, propane tanks must be locked away in an area where kids can’t reach them.  Make sure you store utensils, coals, and lighter fluid.  Also, lawn mowers, electrical yard tools, and sharp implements must also be stored securely as well.