A deck improves your home’s aesthetic value. Yet, if you have young children, it may potentially pose a risk. The deck won’t be regarded as an accessory by children. For them, it’s just another play structure in their backyard. However, what can you do to make the deck a safe place for your kids?
Designing a deck that’s fun, safe, and comfortable for kids involves thoughtful planning and a few family-friendly adjustments. A kid-friendly deck goes beyond basic safety to create a space where children can play freely, families can relax, and everyone can enjoy outdoor time together.
If you have children, you might need to take further precautions, depending on your local building codes. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of a kid-friendly deck. We’ll also give useful tips on ways to turn your deck into a kid-friendly one.
Importance of Kid-Friendly Decks
Decks designed for kids present unique opportunities for social, emotional, and physical growth. Playing on a deck helps kids improve their balance, coordination, skills, and muscle strength. Additionally, it promotes their creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills.
Kids must have these opportunities to play outside and maintain an active lifestyle. A kid-friendly deck can provide a safe and fun area where children can run, jump, climb, and explore, which helps improve their physical and overall well-being.
How to Design a Kid-Friendly Deck that Encourages Outdoor Play
Prioritise Deck Safety with Railings
Safe rails are necessary when designing a deck that is kid-friendly. Balusters should be positioned tightly enough on railings that are at least 36 inches tall to keep little children from slipping through. Most codes recommend no wider than a 4-inch gap between balusters, ensuring a safe boundary without obstructing views.
To enhance peace of mind, consider tempered glass or cable railings for strength and visibility. If there are stairs on the deck, install gates and latches. Any furniture that could make it easier for your child to climb over the railings should be kept away from them.
When designing a kid-friendly deck, erecting composite fencing is a smart way to create a secure and enclosed environment. A robust fence prevents falls, enhances privacy and keeps both pets and little ones safely within the designated play zone. Made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastics, composite fencing is splinter-free making it safe for children. Additionally, it withstands harsh weather conditions, so you can enjoy its safety benefits without worrying about frequent repairs or deterioration over time.
Choose Non-Slip Decking Materials
Kids are often running and playing, which makes a non-slip deck surface important. When selecting materials for a kid-friendly deck, look for products that offer enough grip, even when wet. Composite decking’s longevity and non-slip surface make it a popular option. However, if you decide to use wood, be sure to apply a finish that improves its grip and reduces splintering so that children may play safely.
Designate a Play Zone on Your Kid-Friendly Deck
You can make your deck even more inviting by designating a dedicated space for your children to play. This play zone could include storage for toys, outdoor mats, or soft seating options. A designated play area allows children to have their space while allowing adults to use other areas of the deck. You could even set up a small table and chairs to encourage activities like colouring, crafts, or games.
Incorporate Fun and Educational Elements
Kid-friendly decks should not only be safe but also entertaining and engaging. The deck can be made even more appealing and useful for kids by adding entertaining and instructive elements like interactive games, activity panels, and themed structures.
Your kids will find the deck more enticing if it has lively colours and interesting elements that encourage their creativity and imagination. You can add interesting shapes and structures, such as towers, bridges, and tunnels, to make the deck more fun and exciting for your kids while encouraging active play.
Provide Shade and Weather Protection
A kid-friendly deck should be comfortable, even during the hot season. A retractable canopy, shade sail, or pergola can be added to keep the deck cooler and shield your kid’s skin from harmful UV radiation. Additionally, an umbrella or even tree cover can provide flexible ways to protect your kids from harsh weather conditions as they play.
Use Durable and Kid-Friendly Furniture
When choosing furniture for a kid-friendly deck, prioritise durable and easy-to-clean options. Materials like weather-resistant wood or aluminium are excellent for outdoor furniture since they can survive spills, scratches, and the elements. For easier maintenance, pick cushions with washable fabrics and gentle, rounded edges to prevent accidents.
Add Deck Lighting for Evening Safety
A family deck needs enough lighting, particularly if children will be spending time outside in the evening. To make the area safe for everyone, install string lights, railing lights, or stair lighting. A well-lit deck makes your outside space feel comfortable and reduces the chance of falls.
Conclusion
A kid-friendly deck is a fun way to spend time with your family and get your kids outside to enjoy the fresh air. Make sure it’s safe for your children while still being functional and aesthetically pleasing. Work with a skilled deck builder to set up the best design for your family. With these tips, you can design a deck that’s fun, safe, and enjoyable for all.
