Made For Play

Explore child development through play, find inspiration for your next DIY project, and discover tips for selecting the perfect toys for your little ones.

Kid’s Slide Buying Guide

Upgrading your backyard playset with a high-quality kid’s slide opens the door to thrilling new adventures for kids of all ages. Find tips for how to choose kid’s slides and learn about the key features and unique benefits of our various slides for kids so you can find the perfect one to complement your existing wooden swing and slide set. How to Choose a Kid’s Slide When choosing a kid’s slide, the first thing to consider is your child’s age and stage. For toddlers, a shorter slide with gentle slopes and raised sides provides a fun and safe introduction to sliding. Older kids, on the other hand, love the thrill of longer, twisty slides, tube slides, or even dual-lane options for racing their friends! Keep an eye on weight limits and recommended ages to ensure the slide is a perfect fit now and for the next few years. Also consider the material and maintenance requirements. Plastic slides, for example, are lightweight, weather-resistant, and stay cooler in the sun—perfect for backyard use. Safety features like non-slip steps and handrails are also important and add extra peace of mind. Buying Guide: KidKraft Kids Slides From classic straight slides to exciting wave and tube options, we’ve got a variety of kid’s slide styles to suit every adventure level. Whether you're shopping for toddlers or thrill-seeking older kids, one of these 5 kid’s slides should match your needs. Cool Wave Slide Available in a variety of colors, the Cool Wave slide adds vibrant fun and unique excitement to playgrounds. This innovative wavy design provides an extra thrill as kids surf the ripples down. Engineered for safety and built to last with robust polyethylene construction, the Cool Wave slide delivers endless all-weather play. Key Features: Sloped side walls for added grip and sliding security Durable material withstands outdoor elements Meets ASTM standards for trusted quality Adds color and delight with a wavy shape Turbo Tube Slide Energize backyard playtime by turbocharging it with this bold tube slide. The smooth spiraling tunnel delivers twisting, racing thrills kids love. This turbo tube is built to last for seasons of action. Key Features: Spiraling tube design provides twisting rides Durable plastic construction made for outdoors Supports up to 250 pounds Complements standard playset deck heights Super Scoop Slide Swooping excitement awaits with the Super Scoop slide. Glide through the smooth scoop-shaped tunnel as you speed up for a fun ride. With multiple size options, it fits varying backyard setups. Quickly mount it yourself using the included hardware for a simple playset upgrade. Key Features: Available in different sizes to fit deck heights Curved scoop slope for enclosed thrill rides Durable polyethylene construction is weather-resistant Comes with all required hardware for DIY install Super Wave Scoop Slide Make a splash with the Super Wave Scoop slide. With its green curving waves, this slide delivers uniquely thrilling ripples. Kids will love riding the wobbly waves down. Designed for ages 3 to 10, its durable plastic construction means years of safe use. Mounts easily to any 5' deck. Key Features: Curved green wave design for visual and riding thrills Safely enclosed for kids ages 3 to 10 Made from weather-resistant polyethylene Transforms playsets fast with 5' deck compatibility Super Summit Slide Trusted American quality meets safety and smiles with the Super Summit slide. Built-in the USA from sturdy polyethylene plastic, this green slide withstands regular use for years. The smooth slope helps little ones feel secure. Key Features: Proudly made in the USA for trusted quality Designed for kids ages 2 to 10 Open entrance with enclosed side walls Meets safety certifications for carefree play Compatible with standard 5' deck heights Importance of the Right Slide Choosing the right slide isn’t just about fun—it’s also essential for your child’s safety and overall play experience. A slide that’s too steep or long for younger kids can be intimidating, while a slide that’s too small for older children may not hold their interest. Finding the right fit helps kids feel secure and excited to play, encouraging physical activity and boosting coordination skills as they climb, slide, and repeat. The right slide can also grow with your child and complement the rest of your outdoor play area. Durable, age-appropriate slides reduce the need for frequent upgrades, saving you time and money in the long run. Kid’s Slide Safety Safety is a top priority when choosing the perfect slide for your little ones. Look for kid’s slides made from high-quality, durable materials to withstand outdoor elements without fading or cracking. Rounded edges and smooth finishes reduce the risk of scrapes, while sturdy, non-slip steps and handrails provide extra support during climbs. Here are some quick safety tips: Place the slide on level ground and anchor it securely. Add soft ground cover beneath the slide, like mulch or rubber mats, to cushion falls. Always supervise young children and teach them to slide feet-first. Follow the manufacturer’s weight limits and recommended age ranges to ensure a safe play experience for every child. Regularly inspect the slide for cracks, loose bolts, or other signs of wear. No matter which one you choose, our kid’s slides will deliver fun adventures to your backyard play space. Built with safety, durability, and easy installation in mind, they transform wooden swing sets into thrilling playtime perfection. Shop our full selection swing sets online.

Swing Set Buying Guide

A backyard playset doesn't feel complete without a swing—and kids know that! You simply can't beat the feeling of flying high on a high-quality swing. It’s the kind of classic outdoor fun that never gets old and that kids will remember for a lifetime. Knowing swings are the star of the show, we offer several types of swing sets for kids, so you have plenty of options to choose from when shopping for a kids swing set for your yard. Discover how to choose a swing set and learn about the different options and features available in this swing set buying guide. How to Choose a Swing Set When choosing a swing set, consider your child's age and interests. Toddlers benefit from bucket swings with secure seats, while older kids love swing seats that let them fly higher. If you have multiple kids or frequent playdates, opt for sets with different swing types, like gliders or nest swings, so everyone can join in. Be sure to check weight limits and age recommendations to ensure the set grows with your kids. Also, think about your yard space and the type of materials. Compact frames work well for smaller areas, while larger sets with extra features—like slides or monkey bars—offer more play options. Weather-resistant finishes are a must to keep your swing set looking great and ready for years of outdoor fun. Buying Guide: KidKraft Kid’s Swing Sets From cozy child seat swings for the littlest ones to high-flying swing seat for older kids, and more, we offer a variety of options to suit every age and adventure level. Explore our collection to find the perfect swing for your backyard playset. Swing Seat This swing is the classic option. It's flexible enough to adapt and bend to every body shape while still being super comfortable and durable. Featuring a 58" zinc-plated steel chain that comes with vinyl coating for a pinch-free grip, this seat makes swinging fast both safe and easy. Thanks to its steel quick-link connections, you'll easily attach this swing seat to almost any wooden swing set. Its curved, cozy design it allows for all year fun and is sure to be a staple of your kid’s outdoor play. It is perfect for afterschool playdates with all your kid’s friends or for quick breaks from homework. This seat holds up to 115 lbs. and you can attach it to any standard swing hanger. Every one of our swing seats meets or exceeds ASTM standards, and this swing seat is no exception. Child Seat Want a great way for even the littlest member of the family to join in the outdoor excitement? The child seat is the perfect combination between safety and swinging fun. It supports up to 55 pounds and, like the classic swing seat, you can attach it to any standard duty swing hanger. It’s the perfect no hassle, no stress option and makes outdoor play a breeze. Our motto is safety first, and because of that, this child swing seat comes with a nylon rope that provides a pinch-free grip, so you know your kid will never get their fingers caught. Plus, this swing is specifically designed for comfort so your little one can swing to their heart's content. The perfect place to mount this seat is high enough off the ground for fun yet low enough for safety. Feel free to fit more than one seat on each frame and have multiple kids having fun together at once! Glider Swing Are you ready for a two-for-one? The dual ride glider swing is the go-to choice for kids to bond while they swing and fly high. This design can hold up to 150 lbs., making it perfect for two little friends who want to swing together and for families with two siblings who want to sit in the swing seat at the same time. It’s also great for promoting cooperation and building friendships. The best part is they will never pinch their hands on any chains! Trapeze Bar Do you have a little gymnast in the family? Maybe just a guy or gal who loves a little adrenaline rush in the morning? Having a trapeze bar right in their own backyard is the ideal way to scratch that itch while promoting healthy habits. Plus, it’s a great for adding variety to your swing set by giving your kids even more safe ways to play. This incredible package includes plastic hand grips that are super durable, and a super safe trapeze bar. The trapeze bar can hold up to 250 lbs. when you match it with Extra Duty Swing Hangers, which we offer separately. You can install the trapeze bar without much hassle or having to change the structure of your swing set. It's the perfect gift for the little ones with lots of energy! Nest Swing Out of all our swings, the nest swing has become one of the most popular designs. This swing seat can fit multiple kids at once, making it a fun, social experience for everyone involved. Not only that, but it also teaches kids about sharing and taking turns. This swing seat can also become super relaxing when used by one child. Kids can lay down and unwind under the bright sun during a summer afternoon, or even use it as a unique study space. The best thing about this swing is its versatility since there are so many ways to enjoy it! The structure is made with a steel frame and heavy-duty fabric: it's where secure sturdiness meets comfort to provide countless hours of fun. The nest swing can hold up to 200 lbs. and will hold up to three children at once. Importance of the Right Swing Set Choosing the right swing set is key to creating a safe, engaging space where kids can play, grow, and make lasting memories. A well-matched swing set keeps children active, helping to build coordination, strength, and confidence with every push and swing. It’s important to select a set that fits your child's age and abilities; bucket swings provide security for toddlers, while older kids enjoy more freedom with swing seats. The right swing set also ensures your investment lasts as your family grows. Adjustable or multi-use swing options can adapt to your children’s changing needs, reducing the need for upgrades. Swing Set Safety Safety is essential when choosing and maintaining a swing set. Look for sets made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials like treated wood to ensure durability through all seasons. Smooth edges, secure fasteners, and sturdy chains or ropes reduce the risk of injuries during play. Here are a few key safety tips: Install the swing set on level ground with soft surfaces like mulch or rubber mats underneath. Regularly inspect for loose bolts, worn ropes, or damaged parts and repair them promptly. Teach children to sit properly on swings and avoid standing or jumping off mid-swing. Supervise younger kids during play to prevent accidents. Always follow the manufacturer’s weight limits and recommended ages to make sure the swings are a good fit for your kids. At KidKraft, you can find anything from classic swing seats to comfortable and brand-new nest swings. Choose one or many to make your kid's playground experience more exciting than ever! Shop our collection of swing sets to create an amazing backyard experience for your kids.

The Importance of Music and Play

While music and play may only seem like fun activities for kids, they offer incredible benefits that help shape a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. From improving language skills to boosting creativity and motor development, incorporating music and play into your child’s daily routine is important for growth, development, and learning. Let’s explore why music and play matter, and how you can easily incorporate them into your child’s day to support their development in a fun, engaging way. Benefits of Music in Early Childhood Music is a powerful learning tool that can positively impact various areas of development. One of the biggest benefits of music in early childhood is language growth. Singing songs or listening to music helps toddlers learn new words, understand rhythm and patterns in speech, and can even help improve pronunciation. Music boosts memory, as repetition in songs helps toddlers remember important concepts, such as numbers and letters. It also encourages physical development when kids dance, clap, or play simple instruments, which all help to improve coordination and fine motor skills. Emotionally, music helps toddlers express themselves and gives them a safe way to explore different feelings. It’s also a great way for them to connect socially when singing and dancing with others in a group. Music and Movement for Toddlers Incorporating music and movement into your toddler’s day is easier than you might think, Here are a few simple ideas to try: Dance parties: Play your child’s favorite songs and have an impromptu dance party in the living room. Let them jump, twirl, and move however they like. Dancing helps with coordination and burns off some of that energy! Musical freeze game: Similar to musical chairs but with dancing! Play a song and have your little ones dance, then pause the music and say “freeze!” They have to stop moving until the music starts again. This game is fun but also helps with listening skills, self-control, and timing. DIY instruments: Create simple instruments with household items. For example, fill empty containers with rice to make shakers or use pots and wooden spoons as drums. To add to the fun, have a mini “parade” around the house with their new instruments. If you want to add to their instrument collection, get them their very own kids’ guitar! Morning song routine: Whether it's a simple “Good Morning” song or something you make up, starting each day with a song is an upbeat, joyful way to get going in the morning while promoting language skills. These small, easy activities can make music and movement a fun part of your child’s daily life while supporting their growth and development. Shop our toys!

Latest Articles

Benefits of Using Play Food for Learning

Play food might seem like just a fun toy for kids, but it’s also a great learning toy that supports early development in many ways. From sparking creativity and imagination to teaching important life skills like sharing and problem-solving, activities using play food for kids can have a big role in your child’s development. How Play Food for Kids Encourages Learning Food for play helps kids develop essential skills, from early math and literacy to social skills and creativity. Sensory Play Play food and play kitchens are a great way to introduce sensory play. Handling pretend fruits, veggies, and other items lets kids use their senses to learn about the characteristics of food, making them more familiar with what they might encounter at the table. For children with picky eating habits, play food can be especially helpful in encouraging curiosity and easing anxiety around trying new foods. Early math and literacy Play food can be a fun way to introduce early math and literacy skills. Food-themed play makes concepts like counting and letter recognition more interactive and enjoyable. For instance, kids can practice their ABCs with pretend ice pops labeled with letters or count pretend cookies during a tea party. Language and sequencing Playing with pretend food and utensils can help children to develop language skills and understand sequencing. As they "cook" meals, set tables, or role-play in a restaurant, they naturally build vocabulary by naming foods and utensils and using action words like "stir" or "bake." Sequencing also comes into play as they learn to follow steps like preparing food, serving food, and cleaning up. Social skills Pretend restaurant play is a fantastic way for kids to build social skills. Role-playing as a chef, waiter, or customer encourages them to practice conversational skills and gain confidence as they take orders, explain menu items, or ask for food. Creativity Play food and pretend kitchens offer kids a hands-on way to spark their creativity. They can experiment with "cooking" different meals, creating imaginative menus and recipes, or even opening their own pretend restaurant. This type of play encourages children to invent new ideas and express themselves in creative ways. Life skills This type of play also helps kids learn essential life skills. They can learn about meal preparation, cleaning up, and organizing. As they mimic real-life tasks like cooking and serving, they begin to understand responsibility and build independence. Play food and pretend kitchens offer numerous opportunities for kids to learn, explore, and grow through imaginative play. From building social skills and language to fostering creativity and life skills, these classic toys have a powerful impact on early childhood development. Shop play kitchens and play kitchen accessories at KidKraft.

How to Encourage Independent Play

By recognizing the value of independent play, parents can encourage their toddlers to embrace solo playtime, fostering a sense of exploration and self-discovery that’s invaluable for their overall development. Ideas for Encouraging Independent Play in Toddlers By implementing the following ideas, you can reduce the need for constant adult involvement and cultivate a love for solo playtime in your little ones. 1. Set Up an Environment that Fosters Independent Play Creating an environment that is both safe and engaging for your toddler is key to fostering independent play. Stock the area with toys and materials that encourage exploration and creativity, such as building blocks, puzzles, and pretend play toys like dress up clothing and a play kitchen. Additionally, incorporating age-appropriate books and art supplies, including an easel, can further stimulate your child's imagination and independent play. 2. Create a Toy Rotation Schedule By setting up a rotation, you can periodically swap out the toys available for your toddler, bringing back the ones they haven't seen in a while. This way, each time the toys come back into view, it's like discovering them all over again, sparking fresh interest. This simple strategy combats boredom and prevents toy fatigue. It creates an environment of excitement and anticipation as they never know what they might find when the toys are rotated. As a bonus, having fewer toys out at once can also promote better focus and deeper engagement. 3. Let Their Interests Guide Activities You Set Up Whether it's a fascination with animals, building blocks, or imaginative role-playing, tailoring play setups to match your child’s interests can create engaging and fulfilling independent play experiences. For example, if your toddler adores going to the zoo, you can set up a pretend zoo experience at home with stuffed animals and sectioning off different zoo exhibits using blankets and pillows. You can even set up food areas with a pop-up restaurant and smoothie stand. As your child becomes immersed in this imaginative world, they’ll naturally engage in extended play that fosters creativity and cognitive development. Incorporating a child's interests into play experiences encourages a sense of ownership and independence. As they revel in activities that speak to their passions, toddlers become more enthusiastic and willing to immerse themselves in solo play, nurturing a genuine interest in independent exploration. Follow these toddler independent play ideas and you’ll be off to a great start for encouraging independent play in your kids. Explore KidKraft online to find the perfect toys and activity sets for independent play.

Play Kitchen Features to Look for by Age

When shopping for a play kitchen set, it's essential to consider the unique features that match your child's age and developmental stage. A well-chosen play kitchen can inspire imaginative play, improve motor skills, and encourage social interaction. Understanding what features to prioritize by age ensures that your investment grows with your child, providing endless hours of creative fun. How Does a Play Kitchen Help a Child's Development? Imaginative play is instrumental in a child's development. Play kitchens offer a safe space for kids to experiment and engage in imaginative scenarios. By simulating real-life activities, children can make sense of the world around them, enhancing their sense of independence and understanding of everyday tasks. When kids engage in activities like cooking in a play kitchen, it sparks their creativity and problem-solving skills. Through these experiences, children learn to communicate and collaborate, which helps develop essential social skills. What are the Best Ages for a Play Kitchen? While the ideal age for play kitchens varies, children generally show interest in role-playing and imitating adult activities around the age of two. For toddlers, play kitchens are ideal for imaginative play, fostering essential skills like creativity, social interaction, and problem-solving. As they grow, children continue to benefit from play kitchens, refining their motor skills, cognitive abilities, and understanding of everyday tasks. Observing your child's interest in mimicking kitchen tasks, using toy utensils, and engaging in pretend cooking can indicate readiness for a play kitchen. Keep in mind that each child's development is unique, so look for cues like curiosity about food preparation, setting up pretend meals, or even mimicking conversations from the kitchen. What Play Kitchen Features to Look For Suitability of play kitchen features varies by age. Choosing the right features can enhance the play experience and support appropriate developmental challenges. For example, for younger children, simplicity and safety are key. Kitchens with simple knobs and fewer small parts are ideal since these components are safer and easier for toddlers to manipulate. On the other hand, older preschool and early elementary school children may benefit from more interactive elements and realistic accessories like microwave doors and additional storage space. These features can encourage advanced play and create a more engaging play experience. Storage Size Play kitchens with smaller storage areas can help little ones develop organization skills by requiring tidiness and creativity in arranging kitchen items efficiently. This is ideal for toddlers just starting to engage in imaginative play. Play kitchens with larger storage spaces allow for more extensive play setups, ideal for older preschool children and younger school aged children. They also accommodate a variety of kitchen accessories and encourage diverse role-playing scenarios. Functional Elements Functional elements add a realistic touch to the play experience, making a play kitchen set more engaging and fun. For example, turning knobs allow children to imitate cooking actions, while opening cabinets provide a sense of exploration and discovery. The inclusion of sounds further enhances the play experience, allowing kids to interact with the kitchen as if it were real. These elements not only foster imaginative play but also facilitate the development of fine motor skills and cognitive abilities. Toddlers need play kitchens with large, easy-to-manipulate components to ensure their safety and enjoyment. A minimalistic design with simple knobs and fewer small parts is ideal for not only fostering their motor skills but also providing a safe environment for exploration. Older kids might enjoy play kitchens with more intricate features that can encourage more advanced play. Features like microwave doors and extra storage can stimulate creativity while providing a better understanding of real-world kitchen environments. They also offer opportunities for interactive play, allowing kids to develop social skills through role-playing with friends or siblings. Play Kitchen Accessories When choosing play kitchen accessories, consider a mix of utensils, food items, and other kitchenware. By incorporating a variety of accessories, you can create a dynamic and immersive play environment that encourages exploration, socialization, and learning. Best Play Kitchen Sets When shopping for a play kitchen set, be sure to get one made with material that’s durable and safe for kids and has features that add interest and spark curiosity and imagination. For more tips on what to look for in a play kitchen set, check out our buying guide. Shop KidKraft’s quality play kitchen sets online. We have options available to suit various ages, space considerations, and budgets.

5 Sensory Bin Ideas for Fall

Heard about sensory bins but aren’t quite sure what they are? Essentially, a sensory bin is a shallow container that you fill with materials that stimulate a toddler's senses and create a hands-on experience. They’re designed to ignite imagination and learning through tactile exploration. Sensory play is important for early childhood development, as it enhances cognitive abilities and fine motor skills. With a wide array of textures and elements, sensory bins provide a dynamic platform for interactive, experiential sensory learning. What You Will Need to Make a Sensory Bin There are numerous possibilities when creating sensory bins, as they can contain a variety of items with different colors, shapes, and textures. It’s also fun to create theme-based bins around holidays, seasons, or your child’s interests (such as dinosaurs or trains). To get started, some basic items you’ll need to create a sensory bin for toddlers include: Container: A plastic tub, box, tray, or bucket makes a great base for a sensory bin. Sensory bins vary in size; however, you’ll want to choose a large enough container to fit a variety of fillers and for your child to have room to comfortably play. Fillers: Materials like uncooked rice, pasta, and beans, kinetic sand, and water beads. Toys and tools: Scoops, funnels, cups, and small toys. Accessories: Items for thematic sensory bins, such as leaves or fake snow. Sensory Elements: Textured materials, scented items, or colorful objects. Creating a sensory bin is an open canvas, allowing everyday items to be used in unique ways. The versatility of materials and the opportunity for creativity means that sensory bins can be tailored to match any theme. Fun Fall Sensory Bin Ideas Whether you’re just getting started creating sensory bins or need some inspiration for creating a new one, check out some fun fall-themed sensory bin ideas below. 1.Pumpkin Sensory Bin To set it up, you'll need a large plastic tub, dried black beans or orange lentils, plastic mini pumpkins, small scoops, and containers for transferring items back and forth. 2.Fall Colors Sensory Bin Use dried colored pasta in various autumn hues (red, orange, yellow) as the base. Add droppers and colored water to encourage color mixing and fine motor skill development. Consider adding seasonal items like small decorative pumpkins or acorns for a multi-sensory experience. You can also introduce tools for scooping and sorting, enhancing the learning aspect and prolonging engagement. 3.Farmyard Sensory Bin Create a mini farm scene with small plastic or wooden farm animals, hay, and sensory-friendly “dirt” made from cloud dough. This allows kids to engage in imaginative play while exploring different textures. 4.Halloween Themed Sensory Bin For the main filler, use orange dyed rice. You can make this by pouring 1-2 cups of rice into a large plastic Ziploc bag and adding 5-10 drops of orange food dye and a tablespoon of vinegar. Seal it tight, shake, then pour on a baking tray to dry. After adding the fully dried colored rice, toss in a mix of Halloween goodies you have on hand or from your local dollar store. Skeletons, spider rings, plastic eyeballs, and cauldrons are some fun add-ins. As with any bin, just be sure to get age-appropriate items for safety. Finally, provide some scoops, tongs, measuring cups, funnels, and bowls for scooping and pouring to encourage fine motor skill development, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination. 5.Thanksgiving Themed Sensory Bin For a Thanksgiving themed base, you can use dry corn kernels, regular popcorn, dry beans, or split peas. Non-food sensory bin fillers can include shredded paper, feathers, fake leaves, or real leaves from outside. Then, add Thanksgiving and fall items such as: Fabric scraps Acorns Gourds Decorations Turkey figures Wheat sprigs Pinecones Of course, be sure to include tools to scoop, pour, and sort. Explore KidKraft's collection of toys to find the perfect additions to your sensory bin creations. Shop activity tables to find the perfect space to place sensory bins or provide additional types of sensory play activities for your kids.

At-Home Kids Scavenger Hunt Ideas

Family Favorite Pretend Play Activities Scavenger hunts for kids are more than just a fun and engaging activity - they also help kids hone developmental skills and understand the value of teamwork. Whether designed for indoors or outdoors, scavenger hunts provide a good blend of education and entertainment, making every find a step towards improved cognitive abilities and social skills. Kids scavenger hunts provide several benefits, such as: Improving problem solving and critical thinking skills Scavenger hunts for kids challenge them to think on their feet. Deciphering clues pushes kids to leverage their problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. For instance, finding an object based on a riddle requires quick decision-making. This is a fantastic way to nurture their intellect in a fun, engaging setting. Sparks a sense of adventure Scavenger hunts ignite a sense of adventure in kids, nudging them to look beyond the obvious and turning everyday settings into places for exploration. As they hunt for items, whether nestled between books on a bookshelf or hidden beneath a slide in a park, their curiosity blooms. These activities invite kids to see their world through a lens of wonder, making every found object a victory in their search for knowledge and discovery. Builds teamwork Participating in scavenger hunts fosters teamwork and enriches social skills among kids. They learn that success often hinges on a collective effort and diverse strategies, rather than going solo. For instance, deciphering clues together reveals varied perspectives. This collaboration teaches compromise and celebrates each child's contribution, paving the way for friendships built on mutual achievements, respect, and shared excitement. At-Home Scavenger Hunt Ideas There is a wide array of possibilities for at-home kids scavenger hunt ideas, both indoors and outdoors. The scavenger hunt ideas below will not only keep little ones entertained, but also cater to age-specific curiosities and preferences of older kids, ensuring everyone involved has a blast. Indoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas Inventing a scavenger hunt for kids doesn't require a treasure map or anything extravagant. All you need are clever ideas and a tad bit of creativity. Below are some simple but fun indoor scavenger hunt ideas to get you started. Color Quest:Ask them to gather objects that match specific colors. Theme Adventure:Create a story and have them find items that fit the theme. Memory Lane:Encourage finding objects related to a fun family memory. All it takes is a little imagination to turn your home into an exciting place to explore! Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Ideas Engaging kids in your backyard or local park has never been easier with at-home kids scavenger hunt ideas. Creating scavenger hunts that involve natural elements are extremely easy to execute and kids always love them. For example: Identifying different types of leaves Collecting various rocks Spotting unique bird species You get the idea. Each activity is not only fun but transforms into an educational journey through outdoor exploration! Explore KidKraft's collection of toys to find the perfect additions to enhance your at-home kids scavenger hunts!

KidKraft Parent Series: Family Favorite Pretend Play Activities

Family Favorite Pretend Play Activities From preparing kids for real-life scenarios to boosting their emotional intelligence, pretend play is essential for every child’s development. That’s why “Made for Make Believe” is the motto behind everything we make at KidKraft– and why KidKraft toys will always be a huge part of playtime in our own homes! As part of our KidKraft Parent Series, we asked two KidKraft parents to share how they use KidKraft products to foster fun, brain-boosting pretend play for their kids. Here are some of their kiddos’ favorite toys and pretend play ideas! How does your family like to play together? TAYLOR: We love just being silly and creative together. We'll do crafts, play dolls or dress up or just make up really elaborate characters for each other and see how long we can keep the story going! LEAH: We love playing board games together. We started a collection when they were young and keep adding to it throughout the years. There's always something to play when we have those stormy Texas days or a Friday night in. And of course, imagination and pretend are a huge part of how we play together daily. What are your family's favorite KidKraft toys? TAYLOR: Our favorite KidKraft toys are dollhouses and play kitchens. Pretend play is what our daughter has always gravitated toward. Those toys do a really great job of giving kids enough of a framework to play while still leaving a ton of room for their individual imaginations to push the limits, so they’re a perfect fit for the way our daughter loves to play! LEAH: We love the Farm to Table Kitchen! It comes with so many accessories that aren’t included in most play kitchens. One of our favorites is the planter boxes with “choppable” veggies – they let the girls pretend like they’re really growing and cooking their own food! What are your kids’ favorite ways to pretend with KidKraft toys? TAYLOR: Our dollhouses are so fun because they can be so much more than a dollhouse, and we often pretend one is a hotel, a school, or even a vet's office for all her little doll pets. Kitchens are equally as fun because we'll make them a restaurant or burger shop and create wacky food combinations. LEAH: The girls love pretending they have a store/market setup with a-la-carte food items and drinks. Then they can wrap up their snack stop and move on to pretend shopping! How does KidKraft help your family with pretend play? TAYLOR: What I love most about our pretend play toys is really that balance between real life and imagination. We give kids a kitchen that looks realistic so they can mimic mom or dad, but we incorporate really fun features that we know kids love and features that we know are important for development. We give them a base, and their imaginations take it from there! LEAH: All of the KidKraft toys in our home bring so many opportunities for imaginary play. They have just the right balance of real life details and fun play features. This has helped our girls really engage with the toys but also understand and prepare for real-life situations by allowing them to imagine and explore creative responses. Need some more inspiration to keep the kids busy this summer? Try out one of our 12 Outdoor Pretend Play Ideas!

7 Playtime Theme Ideas

Need some help coming up with some playtime ideas your kids will love? Thinking of themes often makes it easier to create fun play activities since a theme helps to shape the general idea and then specific activities that relate to the theme become easier to come up with. By adopting themes, such as space travel or restaurant, kids get to exercise their creativity while working on various developmental skills. This theme-based approach to coming up with playtime ideas enriches their experiences and makes both indoor play and outdoor play an adventure. Creative playtime activities also help support emotional wellness, foster skill development, and expand the imagination. Creative Playtime Theme Ideas Playtime themes make coming up with activities that spark creativity for kids fun and simple. From pretend indoor classrooms to outdoor firefighter play, there’s a playtime idea to match every child’s interests. Below are just a few theme ideas your kids are sure to love engaging in. 1. Ice Cream Shop Kids will love taking turns being ice cream store shopkeepers and customers, with scoops of pretend treats filling colorful bowls. This activity helps them hone their math skills through playful transactions while also giving them the opportunity to practice social interactions. 2. Restaurant Similar to ice cream shop pretend play, in a restaurant scenario, kids can also add in the roles of a host, waiter, and chef. This activity introduces them to basic cooking and hospitality skills. Depending on their age, they can even work on math skills by calculating tips! 3. Classroom Children mimicking a classroom setting lets them switch roles between the teacher and student. This play scheme fosters an early love for education, nurturing future leaders and learners alike. 4. Breakfast Smoothie Station Engaging children in setting up a Breakfast Smoothie Station will spark into their culinary creativity as they come up with delicious, healthy breakfasts for themselves and others. They’ll love tossing in all the pretend fruit and veggies, pouring in some juice, and pressing the button on the blender. 5. Space Travel A space travel theme fuels a child's imagination towards space travel. It enlightens them about the mysteries of planets and stars, fostering an excitement for exploring the unknown. 6. Firefighter Pretending to be firefighters enables kids to role play bravery and responsibility. It also shows them the importance of teamwork and the critical role rescue workers have in our world. 7. Laundry Day A laundry day playtime theme is a perfect activity for kids to mimic what they see you doing in the home. Having their own pretend washer and dryer set enhances the fun. You can even use this activity to have them help with your actual laundry, turning daily chores into an engaging adventure! This is a great way to teach kids about responsibility and the fundamentals of laundry tasks - all while having a blast. These playtime theme ideas, along with some favorite family pretend play activities, will keep your kids engaged in playtime fun for quite some time! Shop KidKraft’s indoor toys for any specific theme-related items to enhance your child’s themed play.

4 Tips to Keep Playhouses Bug Free

Kids outdoor playhouses are a fun way for little ones to tap into their creativity while enjoying playtime outside. But, like anything else, playhouses need to be regularly cleaned and maintained to last and continue to be a safe environment for kids. One of the biggest challenges with being outdoors is keeping the bugs away – and this is no different with kids playhouses. A fun playtime experience can quickly become frustrating if bugs decide to crash the party! So, instead of letting bugs ruin the playhouse fun, you can be proactive by learning how to clean your outdoor playhouse and keep it bug free. How to Clean Outdoor Playhouses Cleaning kids outdoor playhouses is necessary for keeping them safe and germ-free, and – you guessed it – bug free! Check out a simple step-by-step process for cleaning your kids playhouse below. Step-by-Step for Cleaning Outdoor Playhouses 1. Before you get started cleaning, remove all toys and movable objects to make it easier to access every corner. 2. Prepare a natural, child-safe cleaner. You can use gentle soap or a baking soda solution to scrub down any dirt. This will stop your playhouse from eroding with harsh chemicals and be kinder to children's skin if they come into contact with it. 3. With a soft brush or sponge, gently wash all surfaces to tackle dirt and grime. Pay special attention to nooks and crannies where bugs might hide. 4. After washing, rinse the playhouse with clean water. 5. Lastly, dry the surfaces with a clean towel. Alternatively, you can let them air-dry. How Often Should You Clean Kids Outdoor Playhouses A kids outdoor playhouse should be cleaned at least once a month. But during seasons where it’s being used frequently, you’ll want to clean it more often. To stay consistent, add it to your regular cleaning schedule. Other Tips to Keep Kids Outdoor Playhouses Bug Free Keeping your kids outdoor playhouses free of pests doesn’t have to be a burden. Besides the most important step of regularly cleaning it, these additional tips will help your kids playhouse remain bug free without a ton of effort on your part! Use diatomaceous earth Consider sprinkling this natural, non-toxic powder made from fossilized algae around your playhouse It acts as a deterrent for bugs, dehydrating them upon contact. Diatomaceous earth is an eco-friendly solution, offering a way to keep playhouses bug-free without harming the environment or little ones. Place insect repelling plants around the playhouse Strategically placing certain plants that naturally repel insects can create a barrier, reducing or eliminating the need for chemical repellents. For instance, lavender, marigolds, and lemongrass not only deter unwanted pests but also enhance the playhouse's aesthetic appeal. Don’t leave food behind Don’t leave food lying around. Clean up all crumbs and spills right away – and have your kids help with clean up too. Shop KidKraft's outdoor playhouses and other outdoor toys to create a magical space in your backyard that your kids will love.