A child friendly plot?

[Madhouseof5]

We are having the same issues of making our plot toddler safe & friendly. We are very fortunate that our plot is only 1 of only 4, so a small, secluded and secure site in terms of getting to the road. However, a stream runs right along side our plot. We have started erecting a 0.9m chainlink fence all the way around to keep our smallest small person in (he's 16 months right now). I also have 2 other kids, almost 9 and almost 6 and we planned on turning a small triangular left over bit of plot into a place where we can put a lidded sandpit and build a den or playhouse. We also have a small area at the top of the plot, by the shed for a small patio where we might get them a small picnic bench.

[MrsC]

Hi Heywayne, my your little un is growing up sooo fast! I can understand your concerns and it is a worry, but I think when they hit the 3 year old sort of mark then let them run around and dig, you might have a few bits dug up you didn't want but eh they learn. I think at the age Bean is now that the suggestions above are fab, bit of shade in the summer and a sandpit etc are great. We have a large tree on the allotment on a fellow plotholders bit and he has rigged a rope ladder up to it and the kids spend their time up the tree with a bottle of pop, crisps and a butty. My stepdaugther is now 5 but was 3 when she first starting coming down with me, my what a super helper, she loved digging the spuds up, couldn't think of a better way for kids to be out in the fresh air. My son (11 now) loves building dens with anything he can get off the fellow plotholders. Great experience for kids imho.

[HeyWayne]

Well, I think I've got a picture in my head - but as with most things, once I get started the picture starts to alter, and things come into focus at different times.

I'm loving the raised bed idea - that's already in focus, and I'll build 2, one for Bean and the other for Bean's little brother or sister (as and when they come along).

I'll be moving the bench up to the top corner and creating a seated area with places to play.

All very exciting!