While many families head to the beach or mountains for vacation, we prefer transforming our own backyard into a personal paradise. As a seasoned gardener with years of hands-on experience, I've created an allotment-style garden that brings everyone together.
The garden isn't just for tending vegetables, flowers, or soaking up the sun—it's a vital playground for children when the weather turns warm. Proper layout ensures adults and kids alike can enjoy it fully. If you're renovating your outdoor space, check out expert advice on Binette & Jardin.
For us, dedicating a kids' area was non-negotiable. Over the past two summers, with the children staying with grandparents, this setup kept them happily entertained, rivaling seaside adventures.
Adults get their retreat too: a shaded arbor with cozy garden furniture, shielded from neighbors' views and noise. It's perfect for naps, aperitifs, barbecues with friends and family, and even features a nearby kitchen area with a pizza oven in progress.
I chose the play area's location away from my flower beds and borders to protect them from little feet and stray balls, yet kept it visible for supervision during chores. We started with a swing set, then added a sandbox—essential for young children.
Pro tip from experience: Select a sandbox with a lid to prevent rainwater, debris, and pests. Position it in an open spot, free from overhanging trees that drop leaves or branches. A wooden playhouse delights kids and tweens alike.
Space constraints led us to a versatile tipi for occasional starlit sleepovers. Otherwise, a trampoline fits perfectly. For my youngest, I crafted a fun 3D hopscotch using recycled roof tiles from our renovation.
