Extreme Backyard Project Ideas Your Family Will Love
A Guest Blog by Amanda Henderson
© john kumiski 2025
Are your kids among the many who spend little to no time outdoors? One great way to encourage them to get out of the house and engage with nature is to provide opportunities right at home. And shaping a space that is super exciting to them can be fun and entertaining for the whole family. Whether you want to create a go-kart track, install a pond or a wave pool, an at-home basketball court, or a putt-putt golf course, it’s crucial to make sure every aspect of the backyard project is safe and that you have the right permits in place.
Work with a professional
When it comes to designing and executing your backyard project, it’s crucial to work with professionals who can help you bring your vision to life. Not only can the right designer and contractor help ensure that your installation is safe, but they can also assist with getting the right permits so you’ll have peace of mind about being in compliance with city ordinances. Read client reviews of the pros you’re interested in to learn more about their past projects and whether their customers were satisfied.
Maximize your experience with the right lighting
While a designer can help you make important decisions about your project, you’ll need to do some research on certain details, such as finding outdoor lighting solutions. Not only can the right lighting choice create a safer environment for your backyard installation, but it will also extend the amount of time each day that you and your family can enjoy it. There are several options available, but the best one will depend on the size of the space and the type of installation.
Consider options that will get the most use
Installing an extreme backyard project doesn’t only apply to sports or other activities. For large families that are always celebrating birthdays and other events or that spend a lot of time entertaining, an outdoor kitchen is a great option because it will get lots of use. Consider which tools you’ll need, which appliances make the most sense for the space, and what kind of covering you’ll want to protect the area from the elements. It’s also a good idea to look into a home warranty to cover problems with your major appliances and give you some peace of mind; start by comparing coverage providers to find the best fit for you.
Simple ideas that you can do right now
Not ready for an extreme backyard makeover? You can turn your outdoor space into a fun place for your family by trying simple activities like flying a kite together on a breezy day. Another great idea is to create a nature-focused scavenger hunt, where you can search for things like different leaves, flowers, or insects, sparking curiosity and discovery. Birdwatching is another relaxing and educational activity – grab a pair of binoculars and see how many different species you can spot. And you can always pitch a tent for a night under the stars. These small moments offer a chance to connect with nature while spending meaningful time as a family.
Keep everyone’s health and safety in mind
No matter what kind of backyard installation you want to build, it’s essential to consider the safety of everyone in the vicinity. For instance, you might choose to put in a wave pool, which will require precautions that include drain covers and access to safety devices for your family and friends; however, you’ll probably also need to install fencing that prevents small children and animals from accessing the water unsupervised. Read up on local regulations for outdoor pools so you can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
Getting started on a major backyard project takes a lot of time and planning, and it’s crucial to utilize the right resources in order to find adequate outdoor lighting and other safety considerations. With a little preparation, you can build a fun area that your loved ones will enjoy for years to come.
Amanda Henderson is both a mom to two rambunctious boys and preschool teacher, so she knows from experience how quickly a situation can become unsafe. She created and writes for Safe Children to educate parents on how to keep their children safe while also having fun. See more of her work at https://safechildren.info/
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