The quote that play is the most critical work of a child is valid. Play is key to developing skills - physical and motor, psychological, and social skillsets. Outdoor play is beneficial as it is suitable for physical health. Being exposed to natural elements like sunlight and plants boosts mental well-being too. Gadgets, indoor entertainment, modern lifestyles, and living spaces can act as deterrents that reduce children’s interest in outdoor play.
Designing exterior spaces that promote play becomes a priority in this scenario. Big and small yards can include some outdoor play spaces or objects. This just needs some planning to design something that suits the interests, budget, climate, and space considerations. Homeowners may need to clear out space to make this possible. This can be done, and the debris or junk conveniently removed with a roll-off dumpster rental. Duck Creek Disposal provides roll-off dumpster rentals required during renovations or remodels, landscaping, cleanouts for moving day, spring cleaning, etc., in Wichita Falls, TX.
These are ideas that can help the use of the available outdoor space to interest children in playing outdoors. A few that seem ideal for the family and their area can be chosen.
Sandbox or sandpit
A sandpit or box is ideal for younger children depending on the available space. A sandbox that can be closed when not used can even be built into a deck. Children up to the age of 5 develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination when playing in the sand. The sand would need to be changed every year or two.
Water Features
Playing with water is a fun sensory experience for children. Families with space, and an ample budget, can have a swimming pool and water slide. But even with less space and money, fun water play can be incorporated in a backyard. A water table, water wall, or water fountain are all exciting play options for children. Even running through water sprinklers on a hot day can be loads of fun.
Treehouse
Families lucky to have the space and a robust and suitable tree can build a treehouse. It can be a DIY project using leftover material from a carpentry project. The debris can all be handled efficiently with a dumpster rental and disposed of together. Treehouses are a traditional and fun way of fostering imaginative play. The work and expenses required to build one are worth it.
Swings
A classic tree swing adds a touch of charm and may be ideal for smaller yards. But if there is no tree, a swing set can be installed depending on space availability. Swings are fun and gentle way for children to stay active. It can also help develop a sense of equilibrium and balance.
Garden
Having a small garden with a bit of space or even a pot for a child is a great way to keep children outdoors. They can learn to appreciate nature and how things grow, where food comes from, and develop patience and responsibility as they engage in the process. Families can try growing kid-friendly plants like tomatoes, strawberries, peas, beans, and carrots. Having native flowers and shrubs attract birds and butterflies. This can provide children with learning opportunities and develop a bond with nature. Bird feeders, birdbaths, or birdhouses can be placed in the yard if needed.
Teepees
A teepee or green sweetpea teepee can be a beautiful addition where children can play or read alone or have one or two friends over to play in. A temporary one can be removed when not used if there are space constraints.
Activity Areas
Homeowners with the space, resources, and skills, can have a bicycle track, a maze, a climbing wall or net, etc., for older children. Younger children can have trampolines, sensory tables, or portable art stations.
Outdoor play areas or structures will need to be modified or disposed of as children grow and their needs and interests change. But these are always worth the time, effort, and expense because of the physical and mental benefits and the beautiful memories they create. When a major revamp is needed, an on-site dumpster rental is helpful to get rid of all unwanted items. Parents need to prioritize safety when designing outdoor play spaces. Regular maintenance and checks are necessary to ensure all installed play structures are safe. Duck Creek Disposal provides dumpster rentals in Wichita, Texas. Any backyard projects, landscaping, or renovation require homeowners to clear space of unnecessary items and generate waste. Duck Creek Disposal can be contacted on (940) 257-5660 for dumpster rentals that help ease the stress of disposing of junk.
