FUN FOR ALL

The value of outdoor play and time spent connecting with nature should never be underestimated. Young children and toddlers learn physical skills and develop the senses by touch, taste, experimentation, climbing and observing. A garden that provides spaces for play, both physical and imaginative, is ideal.

Of course the goal is to design gardens that look good and meet the needs of adults while being child-friendly. “During the initial design process, we discuss at length the family structure, what each needs and their common interests,” says landscaper Nick McCarthy of Urban Escape. “And we look at the site and any issues it may pose. For example, with small kids you want to minimise level changes, making them gradual, and maximise the amount of flat usable area.

“The next step is to provide play areas that can engage the children — fun, colourful spaces that will captivate them, make them feel part of the garden and give them a sense of ownership of the space. The idea is to make being