10 Projects to Transform Your Backyard into an Educational Oasis

I am using this post to follow-up on my previous post about How to Transform your Backyard for Cheap. This post will show you my top 10 projects to transform your yard into an Educational Oasis. Plenty more ideas than 10 but if you really want to make a transformation for your children this Summer just focus on 10 Projects! Trust me on this more than 10 will make you head spin and you will start to lose focus.

I realize many families have a better yard to start with. It may be bigger with more grass and less overhead wires to contend with, but we have to work with what we have! I am tired of not spending time outside with my children because our space lacks comfort and engagement.

Have you really looked at your backyard as an extension of your learning space? I know that our yard will be more diverse in activities with children ranging from 3 years to age 14 with brothers and a sister. Take a quick inventory of what you have, what you like, what your children like, and what you could do quickly and easily! We have two dogs that dig dirt holes. Our backyard has some stubborn invasive species plants/bushes that need to be taken care of and some dirt areas.

I created some very nice pinterest boards as a starting place for creative ideas. Then I simply thought about what we have or what we could acquire easily. Since I am pregnant I do not want anything time or labor intensive that I would have to wait for others to help with. Simple projects that our children can help collect, haul, paint, and install really are the best ideas.

10 Projects to Transform Your Yard into an Educational Oasis:

1. Outdoor Tic Tac Toe from Thrive 360 Living- Collect some stones and pine cones for this simple nature game.

 

2. Field Guides from Inner Child Fun- create your own field guides from things found in your yard and around your neighborhood.

 

3. Outside Reading Nook– create a simple shaded place for your children to read or nap.

 

4. Mudpie Kitchen from Small Potatoes- Gather old pots and pans or hit the thrift stores or garage sales early this year. Collect funnels, bowls, muffin tins, scoops, and spoons to create your very own mudpie kitchen! Pallets or an old dresser or table make for a great mudpie kitchen base.

5. Nature Weaving Loom from Housing a Forest- what young artist wouldn’t just love a nature weaving loom. Upcycle a large picture frame  or make your own for this weaving loom.

6. Outdoor Art Exhibit– Too much art work to display inside? Why not have an outdoor art exhibit? Invite your friends and family to your gallery in the shade.

7. Outdoor Chalkboard from Happiness is Homemade- If your children love chalk and you don’t have a paved drive way then you should hop over and see how to DIY your own outdoor chalkboard.

 

8. Backyard Hopscotch– This has been on my list for 2 Summer’s now. Last year we got the pave stones for FREE. The kids painted them but we have to paint the numbers and figure out where to install this classic game!

9. Tree Stumps from Tinker Lab- Are a great addition to any natural play area or backyard play space.

 

10. Water Wall from Happy Hooligans- create a super fun water wall from recycled objects!