I suggest a mulch of cedar shavings or woodchips on top of your soil to make pathways for the kids and dogs. Position large containers using recycled items like washtubs, fill with potting soil and begin gardening. You might also make raised beds outlined with rocks or landscape timbers or stacking stones. Add compost and topsoil to the raised beds before planting. Let most of the large yard be covered with native plants for your area with the pots and plants nearest to the house so you can tend them easily. A patio or sitting area can be added using wood chips instead of concrete, again placing pots in the area for growing plants that will be protected from romping kids and pets. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti