Do your little ones love to romp around in the garden? While spending time outdoors is great for kids, Mother Nature can have some hidden dangers that you may not be aware of. Before letting your child explore the garden, you should get to know some of the potentially hazardous things that lie in wait there, and what you can do to childproof your outdoor space.
Poisonous Plants
Many plants that you may have in your garden can be poisonous if ingested. These include popular flowers like hydrangeas, azaleas, and lilies. Even seemingly harmless fruits like cherries and apples can pose a threat if they’re not ripe or have fallen from the tree.
If you have any of these plants in your garden, remove them or place barriers around them to prevent your child from getting too close. In case you miss any, make sure your child knows not to eat anything from the garden without your permission.
Insects and Pests
Gardens are also home to insects and pests that can pose a danger to children. Bees, wasps, and spiders may lurk in the garden, ready to sting or bite if they feel threatened.
While most insect bites and stings aren’t life-threatening, they can still be painful and cause allergic reactions in some children. Keep an eye out for any nests or hives around your garden and teach your child to avoid them.
Sharp Tools
Adult gardening tools like shovels, rakes, and shears can have sharp edges that hurt children. Keep your tools out of reach or lock them up in a shed when you’re not using them. If you want your child to help you in the garden, you should look for a kid-friendly gardening set that includes tools with soft, rounded edges that are safe for little hands.
Sun Exposure
When considering things in the garden that might be dangerous for kids, don’t forget about UV rays. Too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, heatstroke, and even skin cancer later in life.
Make sure your child wears sunscreen and a hat while playing in the garden and try to avoid being outside during peak UV hours. You can also create shade areas with umbrellas or trees to provide protection from the sun’s rays.
Water Features
Ponds and pools in the garden pose a drowning risk for children. It only takes a few inches of water for a child to drown, so you should always supervise your child when they’re near any water feature. If possible, install a fence or barrier around the area to prevent access.
Toxic Chemicals
If you use pesticides or other chemicals to maintain your garden, store them in a safe place out of kids’ reach. These substances can be harmful if your child accidentally ingests, breathes in, or touches them. Consider using natural alternatives that are safer for both your child and the environment.
Can a garden be full of dangerous things for kids? Yes, but that doesn’t mean you should lock your child inside, never to experience nature’s wonders. Just be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to make your garden a safer place for your child to explore.
You can greatly minimize the risks by teaching your child about garden safety, supervising their playtime, and making necessary changes to your outdoor space. With these precautions in place, you and your child can enjoy all the beauty and benefits that a garden has to offer.
