Your kids love to play outside. But you can’t help but feel nervous about letting them romp around in the front yard. There’s the driveway, with its hard pavement, the unpredictable street traffic, and the nearby road—more hazards than you can count on two hands! Is there any way you can make your front yard safer so you can worry less while they’re out there chasing balls, blowing bubbles, or riding their bikes? There are—let’s go over some things you can do!
Fill Cracks in the Driveway
It’s important to fill cracks in asphalt because they can pose a tripping hazard, especially to little ones that are running around without paying much attention to where they’re going. A small crack can easily catch a shoe or a bare toe, which could lead to a nasty fall. You can find driveway filler at most hardware stores, and it’s a straightforward weekend project.
Establish Clear Boundaries
Kids can get caught up in their games and wander closer to the street than you’d like. A clear boundary helps them understand how far they can go. You could use chalk to draw a line on the driveway or place small cones to mark the edge of their play space. That way, they have a visual reminder of where it’s safe to be.
Create a Soft Play Zone
Concrete and asphalt aren’t very forgiving. But you can create a softer play area for your kids by using a rubber mat or a large outdoor blanket on the grass. These provide a cushioned surface, so if your kids take a tumble while practicing their cartwheels or perfecting their superhero jumps, they’ll have a gentler landing.
Add a Physical Barrier
A fence or a hedge at the front of your property can provide a definite barrier between your yard and the road. This physical separation prevents balls from rolling into the street and stops kids from accidentally chasing after them. There are many styles of fences, so you can pick one that fits the look of your house.
Supervise Playtime
Even with all these precautions, there’s no substitute for adult supervision. Being outside with your kids allows you to react quickly if something happens. It also gives you a chance to join in the fun and make some memories together.
A Safer Space for Fun
Yes, there are quite a few hazards in the front yard, and it’s reasonable to worry about letting your kids play there without strict supervision. But there are things you can do to lessen the potential hazards at the front of your house so your kids can run and jump around more freely.
