Creating a Safe Backyard Space for Children with Disabilities

Written by: Linda Robinson

If you’re raising a child with a disability, you may have to make certain changes to your property to make it accessible.

Many children with disabilities love playing outside, and as a parent, you’ll want to set up your backyard in a way that accommodates all of their needs. Designing your backyard to be a safe and functional space for your child may take a little extra work, so we’ve gathered some resources to help you secure your yard and come up with exciting activities that you and your child will both enjoy!

General Safety Tools

Parents of children with disabilities will need to take extra precautions when considering backyard safety. These resources will help you keep your child from injury in the backyard.

• Children with disabilities are often sensitive to loud noises, so experiment with different methods for soundproofing your backyard.
• Thorns, twigs, and sharp branches can easily irritate a child with autism, so it’s important to keep up with basic landscaping.
• Install certain fixtures, such as fencing and handrails, will make your child feel more comfortable in your backyard.

Backyard Features for Children with Disabilities

Once you’ve secured your backyard, you’ll want to create spaces where your child can play and enjoy their hobbies without experiencing sensory overload.

• Your child can safely play with toys and experience a variety of textures with a sandbox.
• Build a playhouse where your child can retreat when they feel overstimulated.
• Provide plenty of sun protection for your child with a wide, sturdy umbrella.

Fun Backyard Activities

Once you’ve outfitted your backyard with the right equipment, you can start trying fun new outdoor activities with your child! You and your child will strengthen your bond as they explore the natural world around them.

• Explore the wide world of adaptive sports with your child.
• Try educational backyard science experiments, like building a fizzy volcano.
• Consider planning a backyard camping “trip.” However, make sure to keep your child’s favorite comfort objects in the tent!

When you have a child with a disability, their well-being is always important. The average backyard might not be accessible for a child with a disability. But with the right resources, you can transform your backyard into an oasis where your child can relax, play, and learn all about nature.

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