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.

Children make colorful bracelets at a KidKraft activity table with built-in storage and craft supplies.

Small Playroom Design Ideas to Encourage Imagination

Wooden vs Plastic Toys: What Parents Should Know

Best Swing Sets for Backyard Summer Play

Top Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Playroom

Screen-Free Summer Sleepover Ideas Kids Will Actually Love

A screen-free summer sleepover does not need a packed agenda. Kids usually have more fun when there is a clear starting point, room to make choices, and a gentle path toward bedtime. The best plan moves between four modes: arrive and settle in, get moving, make something, then slow down. Start with what you already have. Paper, markers, snacks, blankets, a cardboard box, and a little backyard space can take a group a long way. KidKraft Coloring Pages, which can be downloaded and printed at home, an outdoor playhouse, a play kitchen, or a dollhouse can make a theme feel more real, but the shared story matters more than the setup. Plan for the Group You Have Choose activities for the group’s energy and confidence. Preschoolers may enjoy pajama time but prefer sleeping at home; older kids often want more independence. Keep every activity easy to explain, then let the group adjust the rules. Group Good Starting Ideas Helpful Setup Ages 3–5 Coloring, stuffed-animal hotel, blanket fort, short scavenger hunt. Put out washable supplies and stay nearby for transitions. Ages 6–8 Obstacle course, clue hunt, cookie decorating, puppet show. Set up activity stations and show one quick example. Ages 9–12 Mystery challenge, friendship bracelets, team relay, café night. Give each child a role, a timer, or a problem to solve. Mixed ages Coloring table, pretend store, partner scavenger hunt. Pair younger guests with older helpers and avoid small craft pieces. Begin With a Calm Arrival Activity Set up a welcome table with coloring pages, crayons, name cards, and a place for bags. Kids can make signs, draw mascots, or turn finished pages into wall decor, placemats, team flags, or later clues. For more direction, turn paper into a mission. Write one clue on each card and hide them around the main play area. The final clue can lead to the snack table, a basket of glow sticks, or the first task of the night. For younger guests, use picture clues instead of riddles. It lets kids join right away or watch for a few minutes first. Keep the Essentials in One Place Set out the basics before guests arrive: water, napkins, a trash bag, wipes, a first-aid kit, and a basket for extra supplies. Keep a small list of the night's activities nearby, but do not force the schedule. When a game is working, let it run. When it fizzles, move on. Get the Big Energy Out Before Dark Put movement-heavy games near the beginning of the evening. Build an obstacle course with chalk lines, towels, hula hoops, cones, and a finish-line ribbon. Let kids add one obstacle, then run the course in pairs. The goal is laughter, cheering, and a good use of first-wave excitement. An outdoor playhouse can become the night's headquarters: a ranger station, camp store, secret clubhouse, or snack café. The KidKraft Timberwood Wooden Outdoor Playhouse is designed for children ages 3 and up and has room for up to six children, making it one option for a small group headquarters. Its sink, faucet, burner, and clock/chalkboard combination can support the story without taking over the night. After dusk, shift to a flashlight scavenger hunt or a blanket-circle stargazing game. Skip open flames and keep the play area easy to see. Give the Group a Shared Story A theme cuts down on the number of times someone asks, “What do we do now?” You do not need costumes or a huge supply list. A few props, a simple goal, and child-sized roles are enough. Theme What Kids Do Easy Props Pajama Café Take orders, make menus, and serve simple snacks. Paper menus, aprons, bowls, pretend money. Camp Store Trade pretend tickets for trail mix, stickers, or glow sticks. Paper tickets, signs, baskets. Dollhouse Mystery Follow clues to find a missing mascot. Paper clues, a stuffed animal, a dollhouse, or cardboard rooms. Stuffed-Animal Hotel Check in toys, create name tags, and prepare tiny beds. Index cards, tape, blankets, boxes. Puppet Theater Create tickets and perform short skits. Cardboard box, paper, markers, socks, or paper puppets. Give the group a reason to cooperate. In a café, one child can host while another draws the menu. In a mystery, one reads clues while another keeps the map. This also gives quieter kids a role. Make a Keepsake, Not a Mess Choose crafts kids can complete in about half an hour, then let them make the project their own. Skip activities that require everyone to follow the same exact steps. For older guests, slide cardboard inside pillowcases, write names lightly in pencil, and set out fabric markers. Pre-cut friendship-bracelet strands before guests arrive. For mixed ages, make one coloring-page collage. For camp badges, cut cardstock circles and let kids invent titles such as Snack Captain, Stargazer, or Chief Clue Finder. The badges can also guide cleanup later. For lanterns, decorate paper bags and use only battery-operated lights. Keep the project indoors or on a supervised patio. Use a Simple Evening Rhythm Alternate social, active, creative, and quiet moments. Use the sequence as a guide, not a stopwatch. Time Activity What to Prepare 5:00 p.m. Welcome table Coloring pages, markers, name cards, labeled cups. 5:30 p.m. Backyard headquarters A playhouse, picnic table, blanket fort, or porch corner. 6:00 p.m. Active game Obstacle-course supplies, scavenger-hunt clues, or relay markers. 7:00 p.m. Dinner or snack break Simple food, water, and a place to sit together. 7:30 p.m. Craft or keepsake Pillowcases, badges, bracelets, or a group mural. 8:15 p.m. Pretend-play challenge Café, camp store, puppet show, or mystery clues. 9:00 p.m. Pajamas and quiet activity Books, coloring pages, story prompts, and toothbrushing supplies. 9:30 p.m. Story circle and lights-out Blankets, pillows, and one calm final activity. Morning Breakfast helpers Paper menus, fruit, toast, or pancake toppings. Let kids design a pretend breakfast menu, help set out fruit and toast, or draw “reviews” of the night. Make the Wind-Down Part of the Fun Bedtime is easier when the last activity is quieter than the one before it. Bring out coloring pages again after pajamas and toothbrushing. Read a few chapters of a book, start a story circle, or let each child share a favorite moment from the evening. Some kids will fall asleep quickly; others may need a quiet book or reassurance. If a guest is not ready for a full overnight, plan a lateover and arrange pickup before lights-out. A great screen-free sleepover gives kids things to do together: a welcome table, a backyard mission, a shared story, and a calm bedtime routine. FAQs What are good screen-free sleepover ideas for kids? Try coloring pages, backyard scavenger hunts, obstacle courses, pretend cafés, pillowcase decorating, flashlight games, puppet shows, dollhouse stories, stargazing, and bedtime reading. Mix active play, creative time, food, and a quiet finish so the evening does not feel repetitive. How do I keep kids busy at a sleepover without screens? Give the group a shared setting and a loose sequence. Start with an arrival activity, move to an energetic game, offer a craft, then use a pretend-play challenge before winding down. Kids do not need a new activity every ten minutes; they need a clear next step. What should kids do before bed at a screen-free sleepover? Use a calm routine: pajamas, toothbrushing, quiet coloring, a story circle, flashlight reading, or gentle pretend play. Lower the noise level gradually instead of ending the fun all at once. What if a child is not ready to stay overnight? Host a lateover or sleepunder. Invite the child for the activities, dinner, crafts, and evening game, then schedule pickup before lights-out. Everyone can join the fun without making sleep away from home the main event. Can a small space work for a screen-free sleepover? Yes. Use one room for a welcome table and craft station, then build a fort or cardboard puppet theater nearby. A hallway clue hunt, a tabletop café, and a story circle need very little floor space. Choose fewer activities and let kids stay with the ones they enjoy.

Small Playroom Design Ideas to Encourage Imagination

You don't need a large room to create a play space that inspires creativity and fun. In fact, some of the most engaging playrooms are thoughtfully designed to make the most of every square foot. Designing a small playroom entails finding the right combination of layout and functional furniture to maximize space while creating an environment where kids feel inspired to play, learn, and explore. Implementing a few strategic small playroom design ideas can make a compact playroom feel organized, inviting, and full of opportunities for imaginative fun. Playroom Design Ideas for Better Organization in Small Spaces One of the biggest challenges in a small playroom is keeping toys, books, and art supplies organized without making the room feel crowded. The key is choosing furniture that works hard without taking up unnecessary space. Simple ideas to maximize organization in a small playroom include: Open shelving for easy toy access and cleanup Storage bins and baskets to keep similar items together Designated zones for reading, crafts, and imaginative play Multi-functional pieces that combine storage and activity space These strategies help create a room that feels more organized, functional, and inviting for everyday play. Indoor Playroom Ideas That Encourage Creative Play The best playrooms allow imagination to take the lead. Rather than filling every inch of the room with toys, focus on creating opportunities for open-ended play. Some of the best playroom design ideas for kids that foster creativity include: Child-sized activity tables for crafts, building projects, and imaginative play Art easels that support drawing, painting, and self-expression Toy kitchens for pretend play Dollhouses and pretend play sets Reading nooks with books and comfortable seating Rotating toys throughout the year can also help keep a playroom feeling fresh while encouraging deeper engagement with favorite activities. How to Decorate a Playroom Without Overcrowding It When space is limited, it's easy to fall into the trap of adding too much. A well-designed playroom doesn't need to be packed with furniture, toys, or décor to feel fun and engaging. Instead, incorporate a few thoughtful playroom interior design ideas: Choose a few pieces that serve a clear purpose and leave plenty of open floor space for movement and play. Use bright artwork, playful wall decals, and colorful storage solutions to add personality without taking up valuable room. Keep a consistent color palette to help a smaller playroom feel more open and cohesive. The goal is to create a space that feels cheerful and stimulating without becoming visually overwhelming. Playroom Layout Ideas for Small Spaces A successful playroom layout starts with understanding how your child naturally plays. Some kids need room to spread out with building projects, while others gravitate toward reading, pretend play, or arts and crafts. When planning your layout, focus on: Keeping larger furniture pieces along the walls Preserving open floor space in the center of the room Using vertical storage to maximize wall space Choosing furniture that serves multiple purposes Creating flexible areas that can adapt as children grow Most importantly, leave room for flexibility. Children's interests change quickly, and a layout that can evolve over time will continue to support their creativity and play. Create a Playroom That Inspires Everyday Play Your small playroom can have a big impact when it's designed with intention. By focusing on organization, flexible furniture, and opportunities for imaginative play, you’ll create a playroom that inspires creativity and everyday fun. Explore KidKraft's playroom furniture and storage solutions to bring your space to life.

Backyard Summer Activities for Kids

Summer has both kids and adults looking forward to the long days, warm evenings, and more time spent outside together. But when school is out for weeks at a time, finding ways to keep kids entertained and active can take a little creativity. The good news? You don’t need elaborate plans or constant outings to make summer memorable. With the right mix of summer activities for kids, your backyard can become the go-to spot for fun all season long. What are the Best Summer Activities for Kids at Home? The best summer activities for kids at home keep them engaged, active, and excited to head outside day after day. A balance of physical play, creative activities, and low-pressure backyard fun helps prevent boredom while encouraging kids to stay off screens and enjoy the outdoors. Simple setups often go the furthest. Whether it’s a swing set, water play area, scavenger hunt, backyard obstacle course, or simply a designated place to enjoy an outdoor lunch, outdoor spaces that invite kids to move, explore, and use their imagination can turn everyday summer moments into lasting memories. Active Summer Outdoor Activities for Kids Outdoor play is one of the best ways for kids to burn energy, stay active, and make the most of summer break. The following classic backyard activities make it easier to keep them entertained without needing to plan something new every day. Backyard obstacle courses Swing set races and climbing challenges Water balloon games Sidewalk chalk games and hopscotch Backyard scavenger hunts Relay races or tag games Sprinkler play on hot afternoons Swing sets are especially helpful for active summer play because they naturally encourage movement and imaginative adventures all in one place. Creative and Sensory Summer Activities Not all summer activity ideas for kids need to be high-energy. Creative and sensory play gives kids a chance to slow down, explore, and use their imagination in different ways. Stock up on supplies so you can easily set up these activities at any time. DIY mud kitchens Sandboxes and water sensory bins Backyard art stations Nature crafts using leaves, flowers and rocks Bubble-making stations Outdoor reading nooks or pretend play areas These activities work especially well when paired with outdoor playhouses or shaded backyard spaces where kids can create their own little world. And on those days when it’s too hot or rainy to be outside? These indoor summer activities will keep everyone entertained. Easy and Fun Summer Activities for Kids at Home Easy backyard activities the whole family can enjoy together can help fill long summer days without requiring a ton of setup or supplies. Backyard picnics Camping in the yard Outdoor movie nights Building forts or play spaces Ice pop afternoons outside Gardening together Treasure hunts or simple backyard games These simple activities create easy opportunities for families to slow down, spend time together and make the most of summer at home. Create a Backyard Space to Entertain Your Kids All Summer Long A thoughtfully designed backyard can make summer easier for parents and more exciting for kids. Dedicated play spaces encourage children to head outside on their own, stay active longer, and create their own adventures without needing constant entertainment. Features like swing sets, playhouses, climbing areas, and shaded play zones help turn the backyard into a place kids genuinely want to spend time. And when there are multiple ways to play, it’s easier to keep siblings and friends engaged throughout the season. Make the Most of Summer Outdoor Playtime Summer goes by fast, but the right backyard setup can help make every day feel a little more memorable. From active outdoor games to imaginative backyard adventures, creating opportunities for kids to play outside encourages movement, creativity and plenty of summer fun. Explore KidKraft’s outdoor collection and turn your backyard into the ultimate summer play space kids will love.

Wooden vs Plastic Toys: What Parents Should Know

When choosing toys for your child, the material matters more than you might think. Wooden and plastic toys each offer distinct benefits, but the material type can shape how kids play, learn, and engage with their environment in different ways. Understanding the differences between wooden vs. plastic toys can help you choose toys that better support creativity, development, and long-term use. What Are Wooden Toys? Wooden toys for kids are made primarily from natural wood. They’re often designed with simple, durable construction and a focus on open-ended play. Unlike many plastic toys that rely on lights, sounds, or electronics, wooden toys tend to be more minimal in design, encouraging kids to use their imagination rather than follow preset functions. Toys made from wood are known for their timeless appeal and durability, often lasting through years of active play. From building blocks and activity tables to play kitchens and dollhouses, wooden toys are typically designed to support developmental milestones like problem-solving, coordination, and creative thinking. Wooden vs. Plastic Toys: Key Differences The biggest difference between wooden and plastic toys comes down to how they’re used and how long they last. Wooden toys are generally sturdier and built for long-term use. They’re less likely to break or wear down quickly (especially when properly maintained), making them a reliable choice for growing kids and shared play. Plastic toys, on the other hand, are often lighter and more feature-driven, sometimes including sounds, lights, or character-based designs. There’s also a difference in play style. Wooden toys tend to promote child-led play, where kids decide how the toy is used. Plastic toys are more likely to guide play with specific functions or intended outcomes. Neither is inherently “wrong,” but the experience they create can be very different. There are aesthetic differences as well. Wooden toys often have a more timeless, neutral look that blends well into any home, while plastic toys can be more colorful and trend-driven. Benefits of Wooden Toys for Kids Wooden toys offer several advantages, with one of the biggest benefits being how they support imagination. Without built-in sounds or instructions, kids are free to create their own stories and ways to play. This kind of unstructured play encourages creativity and independent thinking. They also support developmental growth. Many wooden toys are designed to help build fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and problem-solving abilities through hands-on interaction. Durability is another big advantage. Wooden toys are built to withstand active play, making them a long-lasting option that can often be passed down between siblings or even generations. Are Wooden Toys Better Than Plastic for Kids? In many cases, wooden toys offer more long-term value, especially when it comes to durability and developmental play. They tend to encourage deeper engagement, creativity, and skill-building compared to toys that rely heavily on entertainment features. They’re also often considered a safer, lower-toxicity option. Many wooden toys are made without BPA, PVC, and other harsh chemicals commonly found in some plastics. This can offer extra peace of mind, especially for parents of younger kids who still explore the world by putting things in their mouths. That said, the best choice often comes down to balance. Plastic toys can still have their place and add even more variety to a child's collection. But if you’re looking for toys that grow with your child and support safer, meaningful play, wooden toys are often the better investment. Choosing Toys That Support Play and Learning At the end of the day, the best toys are the ones that keep kids engaged, curious, and learning through play. Choosing well-made, thoughtfully designed options can make a lasting difference in how children interact with their environment and develop new skills over time. Explore our collection of wooden toys designed to grow with your child.

Best Swing Sets for Backyard Summer Play

Summer has a way of turning the backyard into the center of everything, with long, sun-filled days, warm evenings, and kids looking to burn off energy. It’s the perfect time to create a space that pulls them outside and keeps them engaged for hours. With the right setup, an outdoor playset can become the go-to destination for everyday adventure, and KidKraft has the best swing sets to make that happen! What Makes a Swing Set Perfect for Summer Play Not all swing sets are created equal, especially when it comes to summer play. The best backyard swing sets are designed to keep kids moving, exploring, and heading outside day after day. Look for the following features: Multiple activity zones: Playsets with clearly defined areas for different types of play (like a swing zone, climbing area, and deck space) create a natural flow that keeps kids moving from one activity to the next. Slides and climbing features: These components add excitement, encouraging kids to stay active instead of losing interest after a few minutes. Shade or elevated play areas: Covered decks or elevated platforms provide a break from direct sun while still keeping kids immersed in play. Space for multiple kids: Whether it’s siblings or neighborhood friends, larger playsets make it easy for everyone to join in without crowding. The result? More time outside, more active play, and more summer memories made right in your backyard! Best Swing Sets for Active Backyard Fun If you’re looking to upgrade your outdoor space this summer, check out the best children' s swing sets below, offering a great mix of features, durability, and play value. Parkwood Post Swing Set The Parkwood Post Swing Set is designed to be a true backyard centerpiece that brings together structure, style, and a wide range of activities to keep kids moving. It offers multiple zones for climbing, swinging, and imaginative play, making it ideal for high-energy summer days. Features like an elevated play deck, slides, and climbing elements are designed to make it easy to transition from one activity to the next, keeping kids engaged without interruption. The design also balances open play space with areas that feel more enclosed, giving kids options for both active movement and creative play. And this new addition to our swing set collection is gaining attention from families who have already put it to the test! In a recent spotlight, influencer Skylar Kelissa shared, “We’ve been wanting a space in our new house where kids can just be outside, use their imagination, and just be kids.” It’s exactly the kind of everyday outdoor experience the Parkwood Post is designed to create. For families looking to invest in a swing set that delivers on both play value and visual appeal, the Parkwood Post stands out as a top summer pick. Your browser does not support the video tag. Swing Sets with Slides and Climbing Features For active kids, the more ways to move, the better. All the swing sets below combine climbing walls, ladders, swings, and slides to create a well-rounded play experience that keeps energy levels high and boredom low. In addition to the Parkwood Post swing set, these playsets are amazing for encouraging kids to be active outdoors all summer long. Bear Cave Lodge Swing Set This feature-rich option blends climbing, sliding, and imaginative play into one cohesive design. Kids love the interactive sand/water station! Ridgemoor Perch Swing Set Designed with elevated play areas and multiple access points, this set encourages movement while offering plenty of space to explore. Adventure Bend Swing Set Built for kids who love to stay on the move, this set features a great combination of climbing elements and slides. Laurel Retreat Swing Set A versatile option that balances active play with cozy, imaginative spaces for downtime between adventures. Falcon Ridge Swing Set With a mix of classic and dynamic features, this swing set is a wonderful choice for families looking to create a modern outdoor play area with a touch of nostalgia. Create Your Backyard Summer Play Space The best playsets for summer can transform your backyard into one of your family’s favorite spots to spend time together. A thoughtfully chosen playset brings adventure to every day and helps kids stay engaged and active while spending time outside throughout the summer. Make the most of the season with a swing set built for all-day outdoor fun—explore KidKraft’s playsets to find the perfect fit for your backyard.

Top Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Playroom

Out with the old, in with the new! Spring is the perfect time to refresh your playroom after a long winter of indoor play. A clean, organized space helps kids focus, makes cleanup easier, and creates room for all those new adventures ahead. So, open those windows, let in the fresh air, and let's get started. When Does Spring Cleaning Start? Spring cleaning typically kicks off in March or early April, when the weather begins to warm up and you can finally open those windows. Families often use this time to tackle deep cleaning projects before outdoor activities take over. It's also a natural transition point—winter toys can be rotated out, and lighter, brighter play takes center stage. What Is Considered Spring Cleaning? Spring cleaning goes beyond your regular weekly tidy-up. It includes: Deep cleaning surfaces, floors, and hard-to-reach areas Decluttering items you no longer need Reorganizing closets, drawers, and storage spaces Donating unused belongings to create more room For your playroom, this means giving every toy, book, and storage bin a fresh start. Spring Cleaning Checklist for a Playroom Put on some music, give the kids a simple job or two, and work through this checklist together. Sort and declutter toys. Set aside broken items and toys your child has outgrown. Wipe down surfaces and storage bins. Clean shelves, tables and toy organizers to clear away dust and sticky fingerprints. Disinfect toys safely. Use gentle, non-toxic cleaners on high-touch items Rotate seasonal toys. Pack away winter go-tos and bring out spring and summer fun favorites. Reorganize shelves and labeled bins. Give everything a designated spot so cleanup is quick and easy. Spring Cleaning Tips for Keeping Kids' Spaces Organized Once your playroom is clean, keep it that way with these simple habits: Create daily reset habits. Spend 5 minutes before bed putting toys back in their spots. Use accessible storage. Keep frequently used toys on lower shelves so kids can reach them. Label clearly. Use picture or word labels so children know exactly where things belong. Make cleanup part of playtime. Turn tidying into a game with timers or fun music. Want more guidance? Check out our tips for organizing toys in 3 steps. Refresh Your Playroom for the Season Spring is all about fresh starts. Update your storage solutions and rethink your playroom layout to support active, creative play. Explore our playroom ideas for smarter spaces and set your family up for a season of fun. FAQs When does spring cleaning start? Spring cleaning typically begins in March or early April when warmer weather arrives and families feel motivated to refresh their homes. What is considered spring cleaning? Spring cleaning includes deep cleaning, decluttering, reorganizing storage, and donating unused items. It's more thorough than regular weekly cleaning. Why is it called spring cleaning? The tradition of spring cleaning dates back centuries, when warmer weather made it easier to open windows, air out homes, and tackle big cleaning projects after a long winter indoors. What does a spring clean include? A spring clean includes wiping down all surfaces, sorting through belongings, organizing storage areas, disinfecting high-touch items, and refreshing spaces with better systems for the season ahead.

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Affordable Playroom Organization Ideas

It’s easy to get Instagram envy from those posts of beautiful, perfectly organized playrooms, but we’ll let you in on two secrets. 1) Those playrooms definitely get messy too. 2) You don’t have to spend a lot to get your kids’ playroom more organized. Try out some of these tips to clear that clutter on the cheap. From the free to the thrifty to the smart buys, here are seven affordable ways to upgrade your playroom organization! Toys that Double as Storage Whether it’s the cabinets in the play kitchen or the baby doll’s crib, make sure to utilize the storage already available in your kids’ toys. Now, we’re not saying the crib should house all your craft supplies, but it’s the perfect spot for baby and her accessories! Furniture that Does Double Duty If you’re investing in some kid-sized furniture for your playroom, make sure it’s working double duty as a storage solution too. Shopping for a table and chair set? Look for one with built-in storage. Want to create a cozy reading nook? Get a seat that can double as book storage. The inverse is also true –– if you’re buying a toy box,go for one that also functions as a bench or a reading nook. You’ll save money and leave more space for “the floor is lava.” Priorities, right? Over-the-Door Shoe Organizers If your playroom has a closet, make use of the back of the door with a hanging shoe organizer. You add almost any small toy, but we especially love it for dolls and their accessories. (Because we all know Barbie has a bad habit of losing her shoes, and her hair gets wild when she’s stuffed into a toy box.) Small Toy Bin Units Don’t get us wrong, we love toy boxes. But small, open toy bin units make a world of difference in keeping the playroom clean. You can separate and organize toys by category, and kids can see what they want without digging through a million other toys first. Removable bins make clean up easier too! With units starting at under $50, these little lifesavers fit into almost any budget. Toy Caddies We’re pretty sure it’s a law of nature that every kid has a favorite set of toys that get carried and scattered all around the house. We can’t tame that tendency (and wouldn’t want to anyway!), but toy caddies with handles can make the transporting a little less messy. Plus, when the kids are done playing, these caddies look tidy and cute anywhere in the playroom. Ribbons for Kids’ Artwork Some thick ribbons, thumbtacks, and clothespins are all you need for a cute and organized display or your little artist's latest masterpieces. Laundry Bags for Puzzle Pieces We don’t know who thought of it first, but using mesh laundry bags to store puzzle pieces is a game-changer. They’re more durable than clear plastic bags, and since they’re still see-through, the kids can find the puzzle they want without dumping the contents of every bag. For more affordable playroom organization ideas, shop all of our cute and kid-friendly storage solutions! Lastly, if you want to shop for kids’ furniture by age, check out our collections for 3-to-5 year olds and 5-to-7 year olds!

Kids Room Organization Ideas: How to Organize Kids Rooms

We firmly believe that a little mess in a kiddo’s room is a sign of a day well spent. But the transition from “a little mess” to “total toy tornado” happens fast. If you’re struggling to keep up with the chaos, we’ve got ideas to tame the most common mess makers in kids’ rooms: clothes, toys, books, and the bed. Clothes The “Too Small” Box Convincing a tiny human to put on pants is hard enough. Having to change them again because those pants were too small is downright grueling. Keep that frustration to a minimum by adding a “Too Small” box to your kiddos closet. When they’ve grown out of something, toss it in the box so it doesn't make its way back into their dresser. When the box is full, it’s time to donate the clothes or pack them away for the next kid! Dresser Dividers Is it just us, or do kids’ clothes come unfolded way too easily? Adding dresser dividers or baskets to their drawers helps you divide shirts, pants, leggings, etc. so you can and the kids can find what you need...even if nothing is folded. Toys Small, open toy bins Big toy chests can be great for large toys and toys that are out of the rotation. But keeping all your little one’s favorite toys (especially the smaller ones) in a large toy box? That’s just asking for a throw-ALL-the-toys-on-the-floor-style mess as your kiddo searches for the one they want. Small, open bins let them see and get exactly what they want without digging through the other toys. No guarantees that they still won’t end up on the floor sometimes, but they’ll be much easier to find and put away! Toy Caddies We’re all about toy rotations for keeping kids’ rooms and playrooms neat and organized. Our secret weapon for super easy toy rotations? Toy caddies with handles! They make swapping out activities fast and easy and look way cuter than plastic bags and bins. Even if rotations aren't’ your thing, caddies are a great way for kids to transport their favorite toys and projects around the house without losing all those little pieces. Books Raising a reader means keeping tons of books around. Unfortunately, as their library grows, so does the challenge of keeping all those books off the floor and in good condition. We think investing in a good book storage solution is well worth it –– it shows your kiddos that books are important and keeps their room from becoming a paperback obstacle course. Whether you go for a traditional bookshelf, a forward-facing sling, or a multi-purpose shelf, just try to keep it kid-sized so they can find and put away books independently. If a bookshelf isn’t in your budget at the moment, try the rotation method. Keep a few books out in a basket, and store the rest out of reach in a box or bin. Switch them out every week or so until you find a shelf that fits your budget. Bed A perfectly imperfect bed-making routine A neatly made bed gives any bedroom an instant facelift, but we think a kinda sloppy, imperfectly made bed is even better. Why’s that? Because it means your kiddo did it themselves instead of you. Bless. Teach and empower your child to make their bed themselves (or with minimal help), and try to work it into your morning routine. To make it fun, let go of perfection and let them take the lead. A kinda crumpled blanket? It’s fine. A bed decorated with 18 stuffed animals? Just go with it. It will still look better than a totally unmade bed, and the important thing here is building habits that stick. For more on toy rotations and organization, check out our full post on Toy Storage Ideas for Keeping Playtime Mess Free!

Best Toys for Six Year Olds

From graduating kindergarten to losing their first baby teeth, six is a big year for your little one. And their play is changing at this age too. Thanks to growing imaginations and planning skills, they’ll start creating more complex structures with blocks and bricks and immersing themselves in complex pretend play for longer periods of time. Their social play is developing too as they learn to work with their peers and siblings to set the rules for their pretend worlds. At this age, they’ll love toys that allow them to explore their growing art and building skills and toys that support realistic pretend play...especially when there’s room for a friend to play too! Need some inspiration? Our list of best toys for six year olds is sure to have something they’ll love! Best Toy for Pretend Play: KidKraft Alexa 2-in-1 Kitchen & Market Only on Amazon Play kitchens are a classic way for kids to engage in role-playing and develop real-life skills as they play. The KidKraft 2-in-1 Alexa Kitchen & Market takes those real-life skills into the 21st century, letting kids practice responsible technology use with kid-friendly Alexa (parental consent and Amazon Echo dot required). Alexa will guide them to develop real-world skills as they shop and pay for their groceries on the market side and cook on the kitchen side. Even without Alexa, this kitchen offers a wealth of pretend play opportunities with interactive sounds and accessories. They’ll feel like the real deal as they pretend to own their own shop, create a menu, and prepare all their favorite meals. Love the idea of a play kitchen but need a budget-friendly alternative to the Alexa 2-in-1? Check out the KidKraft Boho Bungalow Play Kitchen only at Target. Best Toy for Encouraging a Love of Music: Lil’ Symphony Guitar At six years old, your budding musician is beyond the “hitting and banging” stage of playing with instruments and is likely interested in attempting real music. With Lil’ Symphony Guitar, they can get familiar with the parts of a guitar and practice tuning and strumming. They’ll love that it has the look of a real guitar – just like their favorite musician’s. With strings, tuning knobs, and a realistic neck and body, this toy guitar is as close to “real” as you can get while still being a toy. Best Educational Toy: Building Bricks Play N Store Table While you might not think of building blocks as an educational toy, constructive play is actually highly beneficial for your child’s developing math skills. In fact, how kids play with building blocks as preschoolers have been found to predict their math skills, even well into the high school years. The Building Bricks Play N Store table makes it easy to incorporate constructive play into your kids’ daily routine – without covering your floors in a building brick minefield (ouch!). The table has ample built-in storage, making clean up a breeze.Need an option that takes up less space? The On-the-Go Building Block Set ($24.99) may be tiny, but it holds a surprising number of bricks (100 to be exact!), allowing your kids to get creative anywhere. Best Toy for Arts & Crafts: Create N Play Art Easel Six year olds are nothing if not creative. (I mean where do they come up with those stories, anyway?) And every parent knows they love expressing that creativity in paintings, drawings, and crafts. You may also notice that at this age, they get a bit more particular about their artwork, attempting to draw more realistic pictures or being extra choosy about their colors. A full-size art easel is a great way to put that creative expression front-and-center, encouraging them to explore and expand their skills. The Create N Play Art Easel lets them do it all – dry erase, chalk, paint, and color – while staying mess-free with built-in storage caddies and paint cups. The Tabletop Easel is another great pick, especially when space is limited. Best Toy for Six Year Old Girls: Charlotte Dollhouse with EZ Kraft Assembly Six year olds are reaching another level with their pretend play as their storylines and “characters” grow more complex, and they’ll appreciate the extra details of a high-quality dollhouse. With beautifully detailed backgrounds and furniture, the Charlotte dollhouse is a hit with kids of all ages but especially school-age girls who love the realistic details it provides for their pretend play. This dollhouse accommodates 12”, the perfect size for your six year old’s Barbies and other favorite dolls. At four feet high, the Charlotte gives them enough room to play with friends and siblings for hours of imaginative play. Best Toy for Six Year Old Boys: Everyday Heroes Play Set 209.99 Dollhouse play is highly beneficial for both boys and girls as they immerse themselves in imaginative play and practice social situations. Unfortunately, boys often face pressure to stop playing with dollhouses once they reach school-age years. The Hometown Heroes Play Set solves that problem, providing all the benefits of dollhouse play while aligning with your little guys’ other interests. Both boys and girls love the Hometown Heroes set, but we’ve found that it’s a huge hit among boys who love all things first responder. The included firefighter and police officer are ready for the call along with their trusty canine side-kicks. Your kids can help them spring into action at a moment’s notice, sliding down the fire pole, or hopping onto the motorcycle, firetruck, or helicopter. When they’re not saving the day, the Hometown Heroes can get ready in this four-story playset with eight different rooms. Want more toy ideas for the six year old in your life? Shop all of our bestsellers for kid-tested toys they’re sure to love! *Prices are correct as of the publication of this article.

Best Toys for Five Year Olds

Five is a year of independence and exploration. Many kids are going to school for the first time, developing their reading skills, and making more friends than ever. As their attention span and love of social play increase, you’ll notice that they can immerse themselves in pretend play for hours, especially when they’ve got a buddy by their side. These kiddos will always be excited about toys that encourage pretend play and line up with their interests – whether that’s the fire station on the corner or the checkout line at the store. Our best toys for five year olds will help them learn about the world around them, play with their pals, and develop that incredible imagination through imaginative play. Best Toy for Pretend Play: Ride Around Town Train Set & Table The Ride Around Town Train Set & Table is great for more than building tracks and pushing trains. With four real-life scenes, kids can learn about the world around them as they play with included characters and animals in a farm setting, a little town, a construction zone, and an airport. No room for a full train table? Opt for the Bucket Top Mountain Train Set. It stores away neatly in the included plastic tote and still provides plenty of inspiration for pretend play with character figurines, helicopters, planes, and a picturesque mountain setting. Best Toy for Five Year Old Girls: KidKraft Disney Princess Dance & Dream Dollhouse Ahh, those fun years of dress up and princesses. It’s a magical time, right? The Disney Princess Dance & Dream dollhouse is a guaranteed hit with any little princess in your life. This magical castle fits 12” dolls, the perfect fit for all of their favorite Disney princesses. Features like the winding golden staircase and grand piano add a little extra magic to playtime, and the rooftop dance floor lets dolls spin and twirl to three different songs. You just might find your little princess dancing along too! Best Toy for Five Year Old Boys: Mega Ramp Racing Set Gas them up, wash them off, and then race to the finish with this deluxe car racing set! The high-speed ramp launches cars into the air, making races exciting and fun whether your little car enthusiast is playing independently or with a friend. But the Mega Ramp Racing is much more than a ramp – the gas station, car wash, and garage with elevator add extra elements to encourage pretend play as your little guy cares for his cars after the big race. Want more toy ideas for the five year old in your life? Shop all of our bestsellers for kid-tested toys they’re sure to love! *Prices are correct as of the publication of this article.

Best Toys for Three Year Olds

Need some toy ideas for your favorite threenager? Our list of best toys for three year olds has you covered. We’ve curated this list to line up with the skills and milestones your three year old is learning to perfect. No gimmicky toys or passive entertainment here – these toys are just as great for learning as they are for having fun! Best for Art & Creativity: Tabletop Easel $34.99 If you loved your child’s scribbles and fingerpaints before, just wait until they start attempting their first real drawings. Three is a special age for your child’s interest in arts and crafts. Whereas before they were mostly fascinated by the colors and textures of their crayons and paints, around 3 or 4 years of age, they’ll start attempting their first stick figures and other simple representations. They might be hard to make out at first, but just wait – you’ll be surprised by how fast their skills develop! A great way to support their drawing and writing is with a fun easel of their very own. They not only make art time more enticing; they help little hands develop a proper grasp of writing tools, an important pre-writing skill! We think the Tabletop Easel is a great size for little ones, but if you want an Easel that will grow with them into the elementary years, be sure to check out our full line of kids’ art easels. $34.99 Best for Musical Fun: Lil’ Symphony Wooden Drum $18.99 A toy that can take a beating! The Lil’ Symphony Wooden Drum is tough enough to stand up to the toddler treatment – a good thing because your toddler won’t want to put it down. The included neck strap means they can start their own one-man marching band. With sturdy sticks and real drum tones, this little toy is great for inspiring an interest in music and teaching basic rhythm. Best Toy for Fine Motor Development: On-the-Go Building Blocks Set Three year olds are still perfecting their fine motor skills, and building bricks are perfect for increasing strength and dexterity in their hands and fingers. Skills that we take for granted – like the ability to line up two bricks perfectly or the strength to pull bricks apart – are still challenging for your toddler. The physical challenge of working with the blocks and the creativity of building their own structures make this a toy that’s sure to hold their attention. The On-the-Go Building Blocks set is a great intro to building bricks for toddlers. It has just enough bricks to let them get creative but not enough to overwhelm or distract them. Plus, its portability makes it a great toy for meltdown-free road trips, plane rides, and meals out. Best Learning Toy for 3 Year Olds: 60-piece Wooden Block Set Yep, another block set! While building bricks are great for your three year old’s fine motor development, it’s still tough for them to build larger structures with them. With the 60-piece wooden block set, they can stack and connect pieces easily and push their building skills to the limit. Plus, half the fun of blocks at this age is that satisfying crash of knocking down a tower! But what exactly are they learning as they play with blocks? A lot! Block play is associated with improved spatial reasoning, enhanced language development, and even higher math scores. One study found that the types of structures kids built as four year olds could predict how well they performed in math classes later on, so three is a great age to encourage more block play for your little one! Best Toy for Three Year Old Girls: Lil’ Doll 2-pc. Play Furniture Set Three year olds love anything that gives them “big-kid status,” including caring for smaller babies and dolls. The Lil’ Doll 2-pc. Play Furniture Set lets them practice feeding their baby dolls in a high chair and putting them to sleep in a cradle. They’ll gain more than just entertainment too; research suggests that doll play helps kids develop social skills and empathy. Best Toys for Three Year Old Boys: Adventure Tracks Dino World T-Rex Tremor Cave $28.38 Only at Walmart Where do we even start when it comes to the benefits of toy train sets? The constructive play of building tracks is great for cognitive development as well as fine motor development. Pushing trains helps develop dexterity, fine motor skills, and grip strength. And that doesn’t even touch on the elements of pretend play – especially when you have themed train sets like the Adventure Tracks: Dino World line. The T-Rex Tremor cave is an ideal, budget-friendly introductory train set that ideal for your dino-loving little guy. For even more dinosaur fun, upgrade to the Dino World Rumble & Roar Complete Set. Want more gift inspiration for the three year old in your life? Shop all of our bestsellers for kid-tested toys they’re sure to love! *Prices are correct as of the publication of this article.

Toy of the Year Award

Have you heard? We’re up for Innovative Toy of the Year for the KidKraft Amazon Alexa Enabled 2-in-1 Kitchen and Market, and we couldn’t be more excited!The Toy of the Year Awards (TOTYs) recognizes the year’s best new toys in a variety of categories from dolls to plushies to playsets. As you might have guessed, the Innovative category honors toys that are truly creative, new, and well… innovative. To land a nomination in this category, a toy must do something that’s never quite been done before. To say that we’re honored to be included in such a list is a huge understatement, but we can’t help but agree that the Alexa Enabled 2-in-1 Kitchen and Market deserves the attention. What Can You Expect From The Alexa 2-in-1 Kitchen and Market? This is a play wood kitchen like you’ve never seen before. The KidKraft kid skill for Alexa allows kids to interact with Alexa through games, recipes, jokes, and more as they play. Alexa can recognize and “read” from over 24 recipe cards, building real-world cooking skills even for pre-readers. Games provide new ways for kids to interact with their play kitchen, and of course, those kid-friendly jokes are delightfully cheesy and fun even for the adults in the room. Even without KidKraft kid skill for Alexa, the 2-in-1 Kitchen and Market offers plenty in the way of innovation. Interactive food items and dishes enhance realistic play through sensors. Kids can ring each item up at the store and receive a grand total based on what they bought. Plus, the innovative 360° design lets kids switch back and forth between kitchen play and grocery shopping, providing an even richer play experience from a single toy.People’s choice voting is open now, so be sure to cast your vote and register to watch the TOTYs for free on February 12 to find out who the winners are!

Rainy Day Activities the Whole Family Will Enjoy

Rainy days don’t have to be dreary. With these 10 rainy day activities for kids, your little ones may actually look forward to stormy days! Couch Cushion Obstacle Course Physical challenge is the name of the game when it comes to rainy day activities for toddlers. Since they can’t run and climb outside, you can help them expend all that energy with a couch cushion obstacle course. Spread out and stack couch cushions and throw pillows and let them climb, crawl, and toddle their way across the room. Add in a blanket fort tunnel, and even older kids will want to get in on the fun! Living Room Campout Whether you use a full-size tent, a blanket fort, or a child’s teepee, indoor campouts are always a hit. Plus, they give a little extra magic to movie nights, storytime, or anything else you’re doing that day. Dollhouse Decorating Rainy days are a wonderful time to encourage pretend play. Come up with a scenario that requires the dollhouse to be decorated such as a royal ball, a favorite holiday, a visit from grandma and grandpa. Supply them with craft supplies like pipe cleaners, crafting pom poms, construction paper, colors, or whatever you have lying around to let them design their own decorations. Once they’ve completed their master design, they’ll have a blast playing out the pretend scenario with their dolls. Make a Work of Art Bust out the art easel, paints, and colors to make a rainy day masterpiece. Make the activity last longer by helping younger kids mix their own DIY fingerpaint. Older kids will enjoy the added challenge of a kids’ drawing tutorial (or drawing book to keep the activity screen-free). Mail those masterpieces to family and friends for the added fun of using stamps and envelopes! Build a City Combine block sets and train sets to turn the playroom into a mini-metropolis. Add in dollhouses or playsets to make your city even more fun and let the kids’ imaginations take over! DIY Enrichment for the Pets The kids aren’t the only ones cooped up in the house, right? They’ll love the chance to do something nice for the family pet by creating a simple enrichment activity. It’s easy to build treat puzzles for cats out of cardboard and paper towel rolls. For dogs, let your child hide a treat or two in a few small boxes (or any container or hiding place) for a “nose work” activity. For hamsters and rabbits, tear up paper towels to create new nesting materials and enjoy watching them get cozy! Dance Party When the stir-craziness starts to set in, crank up a kid-friendly playlist and get everyone on their feet! Bonus points to whoever comes up with the silliest dance moves. Bake Together Nothing says cozy, rainy day like the smell of warm cookies. For extra fun, let your little one measure, pour, and mix kid-safe ingredients (i.e. no raw eggs) at their own play kitchen. They’ll find the chance to complete a real task at their own level empowering and fun. Start a New Book Cozying up with a page-turner is practically mandatory during a thunderstorm, right? For independent readers, pull up a chair next to your kid’s reading nook and get lost in a book of your own. (And don’t forget to bring a few of the cookies you made earlier!) For pre-readers, make reading together extra special today with your best character voices. Tidy Up the Playroom We know – it may not sound fun, but kids are willing to get excited about almost anything. Clean up songs and games –– “Who can put away these blocks the fastest?” –– make even mundane tasks exciting. If you have positive energy, add in some fun, and keep things low pressure, tidying toys can be almost as fun as playing with them.

Toy Storage Ideas for Keeping Playtime Mess Free

If you’re like most of us, you thought you’d never be the parent with toys all over the house… only to find out that toys have a way of taking over pretty quickly. But never fear – these simple toy storage ideas will help you organize the playroom, reclaim your living room, and keep playtime (mostly) mess free. Rotate your child’s toys First thing’s first. It’s tough for anyone to keep toys organized if all of them are out at once. If you only keep out a select number of toys at a time, both you and your little one will find it much easier to clean up after playtime. You can keep toys that are out of rotation organized in a closet or anywhere your kids won’t have access to them. When you notice that they haven’t played with a certain toy in a few days, swap it out for another one. It cuts through the clutter, and your kids are less likely to get bored with their toys overtime! Simplify rotations with toy caddies Toy caddies make toy rotations super simple. Keep art supplies and activities with multiple pieces in a caddy. Whenever your child loses interest in one activity, it’s time for a rotation! Swap the caddy that’s out for another one that you have stored in the closet. Try forward-facing toy bins for easier clean up Does your kiddo empty out the entire toy box to find one thing? Forward-facing toy bins with multiple small compartments might be your playtime solution. These bins make it easy for kids to find what they want and put it back in place when they’re done. Make book storage kid-friendly Books can take over just as easily as toys, so make a child-friendly book storage solution a priority. Ideally, the bookcase will be small enough that your kiddo can reach the top shelf, empowering them to find what they want and clean up easily. With preschoolers, books are more likely to stay off the floor if you have a sling bookshelf. Why? It’s tough for kids to find the book they want just by looking at the spines – especially if they can’t read yet. Sling shelves let them see the whole cover of the book and quickly find their favorites. When they’re done, they can easily spot the empty space the book should be returned to. If you can’t fit all of their books in the sling shelf, store the rest in a closet and rotate them every week or so. Make your storage work for your space When it comes to storage ideas for the kids’ rooms where space is often tight, multipurpose solutions make all the difference. Tables with built-in storage for toys or toy boxes that can double as a bench or a cozy reading spot give your child another place to play and free up space in their room. Create a no-pressure tidying routine Once you’ve got your toy storage solutions in place, try to get the kids involved in clean up time each day. Many parents find that a quick cleanup at the same time each day (before bed or right after dinner, for example) helps kids know what to expect, making them less likely to resist helping. It’s okay if they aren’t super helpful each time. By modeling the behavior yourself and encouraging them to pick up at least a toy or two, you’ll build habits that pay off overtime. And don’t forget to give yourself a little grace. Even with the most Pinterest-worthy toy storage ideas, no home is perfect all of the time, and that’s okay. It’s all a part of raising those messy, magical things called kids.