Looking for ways to entertain the children, and not just during the summer holiday can be exasperating for those charged with this important job. Gardens are, very often, designed from the perspective of an adult, resulting in many of them holding little interest or physical stimulation for children. Of course one of the best ways to encourage a child's interest in all things horticultural is to let them have a patch or pots of their own. Give them plants and seeds that grow or germinate quickly such as hardy annuals, sunflowers, tomato plant and herbs. Children will love 'plant pot pals' which are cute metal animals and insects on stems, to indicate which plot or pots are theirs! Do bear in mind however that although we are extremely lucky to have access to many different harmless plant species in the UK, there are some which are not. Pick up the HTA (Horticultural Trades Association) leaflet at the garden centre if you are in any doubt to a plants suitability.

There is nothing quite like sand and water to occupy a child on a warm, sunny day. Construct a sand pit using railway sleepers for the framework. Use two per side, eight sleepers in total to create 8' square pit. Line it with weed suppressing membrane and fill with a proprietary play sand. This is very important as play sand has been washed and is non-staining, unlike other types of sand. It is always a good idea to provide a cover for the pit when not in use, to prevent neighbourhood cats from fouling in it. As the children outgrow the sand pit convert it into a shed base or pond. Use the sand as a smooth underlay for the pond liner to sit upon. Add water, plants, provide a fountain and enjoy!

If the children are old enough ask for their help in constructing their own 'secret den' such as a willow wigwam or hideaway. Use living willow to create a natural 'canopy' by planting each piece approximately three to four inches apart in a circle. Tie off the top with raffia or jute to hold it together. They'll have hours of fun running in and out and expect a request to 'camp' in it!

It is true that children's tastes are becoming more sophisticated and a 'Play Centre' in the garden would fit the bill nicely. The beauty of contemporary wooden playground equipment is that not only does it look good, it can also be purchased as modules, enabling the overall framework to be expanded in accordance with a child's capabilities.

Equipment is often designed for children aged between three and ten years and where you can select a basic 'fort' and slide with access ladder or purchase a complete play centre. This would include a number of modules including a play tower, swings including a 'child swing' for nine months to 3 years, rope ladders, and even a spiral slide if you are looking for something different.

Consider using an appropriate safety surface under any play equipment to reduce the risk of injuries should a child fall. Play equipment is flat packed, and all playsets come pre-cut and pre-drilled for easy assembly.

Additionally as they sit on the surface of the ground there is no digging or cementing (except for the spiral slide where one hole needs to be dug) and couldn't be easier to install!

Optional extras include a bridge, hand grips, glider swing or ramp to truly customise each play centre and keep the children entertained for hour after hour. However, do remember mums and dads, that this equipment is for children only!