How to create the ultimate backyard for kids

First, map out your backyard, creating different zones for physical and creative play. (Note that existing trees and/or structures could influence your decisions.) 

Start to assemble all your play pieces, including your cubby house.

Sandpits are fun for kids of all ages. They are also easy to create: all you need is four retaining walls and some sand.

First, build the retaining sleeper walls for your sandpit. Once these are assembled, move the sleeper walls to where you want your sandpit to be, fill with sand and smooth out using a rake.

Once all your equipment is built, add a pop of colour. Start with a white base coat and, once dry, add eye-catching accents in your favourite colours. 

Cubby houses can be transformed into anything your child can imagine: a farmer's market, a veterinary clinic, or even the International Space Station! Once you've landed on a theme, personalise it with some signage and a few details. We've transformed ours into a country shop and cafe, adding a fun sign, an awning and some planter boxes.

Adding a mural or chalkboard is a great way to encourage creativity and showcase the kid's artistic skills.

A soft surface under foot helps make playground areas safer. Add a thick layer of soft mulch and spread around the entire area using a rake or shovel.

Shade is important in any backyard during the hot summer months. A shade sail is an elegant and easy way to create some protection from the sun's heat and exposure.

Tip: Check out our helpful video on how to install a shade sail.

Outdoor cinemas feel like an exotic luxury, but they're simple to create! All you need is a large, plain wall on one side of your home (preferable in your backyard).

Use an old sheet or a blank piece of canvas as a guide, marking out the top two corners on your wall. Add a hook on either side, and simply hook your sheet or canvas to each hook to create the screen. (This can be taken down and stored when not in use.)

Add a few cushions and beanbags for seats, make some popcorn and play your favourite movie outside on a warm summer night.

Something as small and simple as creating an elf village can spark kids' imagination and entertain them for ages. Mark out a small patch of soil and get creative! Add coloured stones for a touch of whimsy, broken pots make excellent elf homes and succulents add texture.

A dinosaur pit is another kid crowd-pleaser. Simply fill a large plastic tub with sand, place a few stones for landscaping and turn your dinosaur figurines loose to roam wild.

Enjoy!