DIY Backyard Ideas for Kids

Summer is almost here, and we can’t wait.  We are definitely on the countdown!  One of the best things about our little apartment is that it has a great yard, and so being here through the summer while our house is being built means that we’ll still have plenty of room for the kids to run and play.  However…there isn’t anything out there right now, so I’ve been on the hunt recently for some really great backyard ideas that I could make for not only our yard now, but also for when we move into our house. As I searched, I gathered some of my favorite backyard ideas for kids, and I wanted to share what I found with you!

I love that my kids love to be outside, and I want to do everything I can to encourage that. Exploring, creating, playing, running, jumping, climbing—that’s what summer is meant to be! I want less time on electronics and more time outside, so providing really fun activities outside is high on my priority list.

DIY BACKYARD IDEAS FOR KIDS

Easy DIY Wooden Swing Set

Make this awesome wooden swing set in an afternoon! Perfect for all ages.

 

Outdoor Chalkboard

My favorite part about an outside chalkboard is that the mess is outside too. :)  My kids love to draw and doodle, and this means hours of fun!

 

DIY Tetherball Set

We made this for our kids last summer, and it was a HUGE hit!  Everyone enjoyed it, from the youngest all the way up to the adults.  It’s super easy to make, and way cheaper than buying one!

 

Backyard Sandpit

This is such a cute sandbox, that I might break my no-sand-except-at-the-beach rule.  :)

 

Mud Kitchen

I am in LOVE with mud kitchens, and I cannot wait to make my own version!

 

DIY Outdoor Movie Screen

This project has been on my list FOREVER.  This year is the year!!

 

Kids’ Play Platform

I love the idea of a play platform.  We are planning to build a treehouse in our new backyard that has many of these components, but if you don’t have a tree (or don’t want to use one), this is an awesome project!

 

 

Ropes Course

I just love this idea!  I know this will be a huge hit at our house!

 

DIY Seesaw

This is always a popular item when we go to the park, so bringing it to our backyard is definitely on the list. I’m looking forward to making our own version, but this looks like a great one!

 

Homemade Sprinkler

Having this awesome sprinkler in our backyard will make every hot day a cool day!

 

Outdoor Fire Pit

We think of having a fire pit as not optional.  It has been the very first thing we’ve done in every house we’ve lived in, and it will be same at our new house too.  AND…we are so lucky because the apartment we’re renting has one in the backyard!  Wahoo!  Summers nights…sitting in front of the fire, roasting marshmallows, laughing with friends and family…perfection.

 

All of these awesome DIY backyard ideas add up to summer FUN for kids and families!

 

 

 

 

OTHER IDEAS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

• Outdoor String Lights on DIY Posts (for your patio)
• How to Build a DIY Paver Patio
• DIY Outdoor Tree Baby Swings
• Vintage Lemonade Stand with Reversible Chalkboard Sign

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