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.

Top 5 Indoor Activities for Kids at Home

Christmas Playhouse Makeovers: How Real Families Transformed Their Playhouses for the Holidays

Top 5 Indoor Activities for Kids at Home

When the weather outside is chilly, soggy, or downright moody, it’s your cue to bring the good times indoors. Inside play keeps kids active and their imaginations buzzing. Snowy day? Rainy day? Here’s a handful of fun ideas that can flip “I’m bored” into “let’s do that again.” Fun and Easy Indoor Activities for Kids of All Ages Keeping kids entertained indoors doesn't have to be complicated. With a little creativity, you can turn your living space into a hub of activity and discovery. Here are five simple ideas to get you started. 1. Host a Play Kitchen Bake-Off Challenge Make your child’s play kitchen the center for a pint-sized cooking competition. Choose a theme, such as “Cupcake Creations” or “Crazy Pizza Toppings,” and let the little ones use toy food or craft supplies to whip up their culinary masterpieces. You can even add real prebaked cookies or cupcakes for decorating. Just be sure to supervise as they spread frosting or add sprinkles. Evaluate and score the “dishes” based on creativity, presentation, and teamwork. Finish with real snacks as a tasty reward. 2. Stage a Puppet or Doll Performance It’s showtime! Create a mini stage out of a cardboard box or by draping a tablecloth over an activity table. Kids can step into the role of aspiring directors as they cast puppets, dolls, and stuffed animals in the starring roles and bring their stories to life. They can develop scenes, try out voices, and put on a full performance. 3. Play Dollhouse Detective Who doesn’t love a little mystery? Hide a few tiny objects in your child’s dollhouse and set up a seek-and-find game inspired by favorites like I Spy. Your tiny sleuths can search, decode clues, and cheer successful discoveries, all while building problem-solving and attention skills. 4. Dig Into Indoor Gardening Cultivate their curiosity about science. Give kids a small planter, cup, or jar to plant their seeds. They can water them regularly and watch the slow, steady changes over time. Your young gardeners can check for sprouts, make observations, and celebrate each new leaf. It’s a rewarding way to build patience, responsibility, and early science skills. Plus, it gives them something to look forward to long after the day is over. 5. Pump up the Playroom Jam Strike up some indoor fun with a little music-and-movement corner. It doesn’t take much to get things rolling. Pull out noisemakers, bells, rattles, play instruments, or even a pot and a wooden spoon. Toss in a few scarves for swirling, and suddenly your living room will feel like the hottest club in town. Put on a favorite song (or let the kids be the band), and you’ve got a full-on family jam session. Tips for Making Indoor Play More Engaging Every Day You don’t need new toys to keep indoor playtime interesting. Just think of fresh ways to use the ones you already have. Here are some tips for making indoor play more engaging: Rotate toys regularly. Bringing out different items each week makes familiar toys feel new again. Create simple “stations.” Set up a small art corner with an easel. Add a building zone with blocks or toy bricks. Then, create a pretend-play area with a play kitchen, dollhouse, or themed play set, allowing children to transition easily between activities. Join in on the fun. Playing together strengthens your connection and provides guidance kids can use when they play on their own. Mix and match toys. Consider how toys can be used together in unexpected ways. For example, blocks can become car garages, train set scenery, or castles for dolls. Encouraging Creativity and Connection Through Indoor Play Indoor play is an opportunity to create lasting memories and foster family bonds. These shared moments of imagination and laughter transform an ordinary afternoon into something meaningful. With thoughtful activities and encouragement, you’re helping your child learn and grow while making the most of your time together.

Screen-Free Activities for Kids

We all know the struggle of peeling little eyes away from tablets and televisions. Everyone likes a cartoon or movie, now and then. But while tech has its place, swapping pixels for paintbrushes, playsets, and puzzles opens up a world of wonder right in your living room or backyard. Ready to trade digital time for creative time? Here are a few simple ways to get your kids excited about playing without screens. The Benefits of Screen-Free Play Why unplug for play? Stepping away from devices helps boost brainpower and build essential life skills. When children engage with physical toys, they develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Hands-on activities support other areas of early development, too. Bricks and playsets, for instance, encourage cognitive play by helping young minds recognize patterns and explore cause-and-effect relationships naturally. Easy and Fun Screen-Free Activities for Kids When considering which activities to choose, look for ones that are relatively simple to implement and impossible for children to resist. Here are a few ways to get everyone busy. Screen-Free Activities for Toddlers Toddlers thrive on exploration and sensory experiences. Try these easy, low-prep ideas: Create an art station. Set up an art station with an easel and encourage creative play. Whether your little artist uses chalk, markers, crayons, or finger paints, they can express themselves freely while honing fine motor skills. It’s messy, marvelous, and completely captivating for curious tots. Put together a sensory bin. Fill a shallow bin with rice, scoops, cups, or a few small toys. Pouring and digging lets toddlers explore new textures in a calming, playful way. Offer chunky blocks or bricks. Building towers (and knocking them down) helps toddlers practice early problem-solving and coordination. Screen-Free Family Activities to Do Together Play becomes even more magical when everyone joins in. Transform your living room into a bustling restaurant or a castle that invites imaginative pretend play. Creating stories and scenarios together strengthens bonds and builds vocabulary. If the weather is cooperating, move the offline fun outdoors. A backyard swing set or climber enhances physical development and offers the ultimate outlet for active play. Racing down slides or soaring on swings in the fresh air burns energy and creates those giggly, breathless moments that childhood memories are made of. How To Make Screen-Free Time a Daily Habit For a natural transition to increased screen-free time, try these strategies: Designate specific "unplugged zones" or times of day where devices disappear. Schedule regular game nights or playdates that focus on social group play. When kids interact with peers or parents without digital distractions, they learn negotiation, empathy, and sharing much faster. Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Screen-Free Play The goal isn't to banish screens, but to make the real world more enticing than the virtual one. By providing engaging environments, like a well-stocked playroom or an adventure-ready backyard, you show your children that the best stories aren't just watched; they are lived. Keep it fun, keep it fresh, and watch their imaginations blossom.

Swing Sets with Installation

Getting a new playset is a huge moment for your family, but the assembly process doesn't have to be a huge headache. When you choose a backyard swing set with installation service, you can say goodbye to hours of deciphering instructions and hauling heavy boxes. Professional installers take care of the entire setup for you, ensuring your swing set is built safely and correctly. With the work handled by experts, you can skip the stress and look forward to the exciting moment your kids start exploring their new favorite hangout. What to Expect Choose professional installation, and experts will manage the process from delivery to the final safety check. Here is a breakdown of what to expect: Step 1: We’ll reach out to confirm details Within a week of placing your order, we’ll reach out to confirm installation availability in your area and ensure your yard is properly prepped (see note below on yard preparation). Step 2: Delivery coordination and scheduling Your swing set will be shipped to the KidKraft installation office closest to your location. The day before your scheduled installation, we will call to confirm your appointment. Please note that installation dates may change if weather conditions require rescheduling. Step 3: Professional assembly On installation day, experienced technicians arrive with your swing set and all the tools needed to build it. This prevents third-party carriers from leaving heavy boxes in your driveway and ensures the entire process stays organized. Step 4: Safety verification After assembly, installers complete a thorough safety check to confirm the structure is stable and all anchors are properly secured. Step 5: Cleanup The team removes all packaging materials and debris, leaving your yard clean and ready for play. Bring out the kids, the swings and slides are ready for action. Prepare Your Yard for Swing Set Installation Before the installation team arrives, a little prep work goes a long way in ensuring a quick and successful build. You want to make sure the designated area is safe, level, and free of obstacles that could delay the process. Choose a level spot: Select a flat area of your yard to ensure stability; installing on a slope can affect safety and structural integrity. Clear the area: Remove rocks, stumps, branches, or other debris from the installation site to create a safe workspace. Check dimensions: Measure your space to confirm there is a 6-foot safety zone around the entire perimeter of the swing set. Mark utilities: Identify and mark any underground sprinklers or utility lines to prevent accidental damage during anchoring. The approximate lead time on installation is usually 4-6 weeks from the order date (lead times may vary during peak season and holidays). Installation fees apply to most U.S. locations, although remote areas may incur additional charges, which will be discussed with you prior to processing your order. If there is no installer in your area, you'll be notified right away with refund options. FAQs How long does installation usually take? Most standard installations are completed within a single day, typically taking between 4 and 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the swing set model. Larger, more intricate playsets may require a bit more time, but the professional team works efficiently to get your backyard ready for fun as quickly as possible. Is installation included in the price? Professional installation is available with select swing sets as an add-on service. Who installs the swing set? We partner with reputable, third-party assembly networks that vet and certify their technicians. These professionals are experienced in assembling outdoor play structures and are trained to follow our specific manufacturer guidelines to ensure every component is assembled safely. What type of surface is best for a swing set? Soft, shock-absorbing materials are the best choice. We recommend installing your swing set on wood mulch, rubber mulch, or engineered wood fiber. You’ll need at least 9 inches of material for most playsets. Always follow the specific manufacturer and local code requirements for fall height and surfacing. How do you anchor a swing set? Proper anchoring is essential for preventing the set from tipping over during vigorous play or high winds. Our professional installers follow the KidKraft installation manuals, using the appropriate ground stakes or anchors for each model and securing them firmly to the base of the playset legs. Shop KidKraft’s outdoor swing sets with installation today. With professional installation, you can skip the stress and let us handle the hard part so your kids can start swinging, sliding, and climbing sooner!

How to Organize Toys in 3 Steps

Tired of stepping on that rogue toy car or searching high and low for a doll's missing shoe? As sweet as it is to see your children play, the aftermath can sometimes look like a mini tornado hit your living room. The good news? You don’t have to choose between creativity and a clean floor. Organizing toys can actually be enjoyable (really!), and it doesn’t mean locking everything away in a closet. With the right strategies, you can turn cleanup time into a game, make play easier, and even teach your kids a little responsibility along the way. Ready to reclaim your space without interrupting their imagination or slowing down the fun? Let’s get started! Getting Started: The Basics of Toy Organization Before you buy new bins or start rearranging furniture, take a moment to notice how your child actually plays. Paying attention to their habits helps you figure out what should stay within easy reach and what can be stored higher up or put away. Effective organization relies on a few core principles: Accessibility: Keep your child’s favorite toys and activities within reach so they can play independently. Visibility: Clear bins or open shelves help kids see what they have. Simplicity: A simple organization system is easier to maintain than a complicated one. Step-by-Step: How to Organize Children’s Toys Like a Pro Creating a sustainable organization system takes a little time upfront, but the payoff is a playroom that cleans up quickly. Involve your child in the process to make it more enjoyable and teach them valuable skills. When kids help set up the system, they’re more likely to understand where things belong and take ownership of keeping the space tidy. It also fosters independence and helps them practice making decisions. Follow these steps together to organize and optimize your space. Step 1: Sort and Declutter The first step to organization is to sort and declutter. It is impossible to organize efficiently if you have broken items or toys your child has outgrown mixed in with their current go-tos. Start by gathering everything in one room and sorting through the pile. Create three distinct piles to streamline the process: Keep: The toys your child plays with regularly. Donate or sell: Gently used items that someone else can enjoy. Toss or recycle: Broken items or puzzles, toys, and games with missing pieces. Step 2: Group Toys by Type or Activity Once you have pared down the collection, categorize the remaining items. Involve your child by asking for their input—what toys they like to play with together, which items feel similar, or what should share a bin. For example, you may want to group items by how they are used: Building: Blocks, magnetic tiles, and construction sets. Pretend play: Costumes, play food, cars, and dolls. Creative: Art supplies, coloring books, and play-dough. Step 3: Label and Store Strategically Grab your labeler or some stick-on labels and create a simple label for each bin or shelf. Labels make cleanup feel more like following a map than a chore. And for little ones who aren’t reading yet, picture labels make it easy to match items to their spots. Once everything is labeled, use these storage strategies: Put heavier items and everyday toy and activity favorites on lower shelves. Reserve higher shelves for items that require supervision, like messy art supplies. Utilize open bins for bulky items that are hard to stack. How to Organize Plush Toys and Other Soft Items Stuffed animals can quickly take over a bed or corner if left unchecked. Since they are soft and lightweight, you have more flexible storage options than with rigid toys. Here are a few ways to corral the plush collection: Baskets: Large, soft baskets on the floor make it easy to toss animals in. Hammocks: Take advantage of corner space by hanging a net or hammock for display. Toy boxes: Classic toy boxes and benches hide the clutter while keeping plush friends accessible. Best Ways to Store Toys in Small Spaces If you are working with limited square footage, vertical space is your best friend. Also, consider dual-purpose furniture or storage that fits into unused nooks. Maximize your area with these organization ideas: Vertical shelving: Tall bookcases and shelves draw the eye up and can offer more storage than low, wide units. Just be sure to anchor them securely to the wall to keep them safe for little climbers. Under-bed storage: Roll-out bins utilize the dead space beneath beds. Multi-functional furniture: Save floor space by using tables with built-in drawers or benches with storage compartments. Storage Solutions Simplify Play and Cleanup Time Ultimately, the goal is to create a space made for play where cleanup is just a quick reset for the next adventure. Putting these affordable playroom organization ideas into practice gives every toy a home, and creates a system that can grow and adapt as your child moves from blocks to board games to brand-new picks. Shop KidKraft's storage collection today to make cleanup time simple and fun.

Christmas Playhouse Makeovers: How Real Families Transformed Their Playhouses for the Holidays

The holiday season is made for memory-making and a little “deck the halls” magic of your own. Transforming your child’s playhouse into a winter wonderland brings the joy of the season right to your backyard. With twinkling lights, mini wreaths, and a sprinkle of creativity, it becomes their very own North Pole hideaway. Whether your child is pretending to run Santa’s workshop or relaxing in a winter cabin, a Christmas playhouse makeover turns everyday play into something truly merry and bright. Let’s look at some fun, festive decorating ideas and showcase a couple of amazing transformations from real families to inspire your own holiday project. Christmas Playhouse Inspiration for the Holiday Season A playhouse can become whatever your child dreams up. During the holidays, it can turn into a gingerbread house, Santa's headquarters, or a reindeer stable. Make decorating it together with your children a family tradition. As you work side by side to hang lights and arrange decorations, you’re building memories that will be treasured for years to come. This shared project fosters creativity and teamwork, making the result even more meaningful. Playhouse Decorating Ideas to Create Holiday Magic Ready to dress up your outdoor playhouse for the holidays? Here are some tips. Add Lights and Garland Let's illuminate your playhouse! Few things capture the holiday spirit quite like shimmering lights and beautiful garland. Drape string lights: Use battery-operated string lights along the roofline, windows, and doorway. Choose classic white for a warm glow or multi-colored strands for a playful feel. Wrap with garland: Adorn pillars, railings, and windows with garland. Choose classic green garland for a natural look, or a pre-lit or flocked variety for extra flair. Add festive accents: Add small, shatterproof ornaments or red bows to your garland to instantly make the playhouse feel like a miniature holiday home. Bring the Indoors Out With Cozy Decor Give the playhouse the same inviting feel as your home with a few simple accessories: Welcome mat: Add a cheerful mat at the door for instant charm. Mini wreath: Hang a small wreath or door sign to make it feel lived-in. Soft rug: Lay down a durable outdoor rug for a warm, finished look. Decorative pillows: Use weather-friendly pillows in bright or seasonal colors to make the space feel comfy and fun. Just make sure everything you add can handle a little sun, wind, and rain. Incorporate Holiday Play Accessories and Toys Enhance the atmosphere with seasonal additions that invite imagination and play: Mini Christmas tree: Set up a small artificial tree your child can decorate again and again. Pretend hot cocoa station: Add toy mugs and cotton balls as marshmallows for a sweet twist on make-believe play. Toy mailbox: Let your child “send” and receive letters to Santa. Holiday books or play baking tools: Create a snug reading corner or a pretend gingerbread bakery. Interactive elements: Make the space truly engaging with hands-on features like a chalkboard for drawing or writing “Santa, stop here!” messages. Real Family Christmas Playhouse Makeovers Need a little inspiration? Some of the sweetest playhouse makeovers come straight from real families who went all out for the holidays. Take a peek at three of our favorites. Elizabeth Homen’s ‘Santa’s Workshop’ Playhouse Transformation Elizabeth brought holiday magic to her KidKraft playhouse, giving it a merry makeover worthy of the North Pole. With paint, seasonal sparkle, and plenty of creativity and Christmas spirit, she turned it into the cutest Santa’s Workshop for her 5- and 2-year-old elves. See how her vision came together in the video below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elizabeth Homen (@elizabethhomen) A Classic Christmas Welcome Two adorable pups are all set for the holiday paw-ty, looking perfectly at home on the porch of a playhouse dressed in timeless Christmas style. Green wreaths with bright red bows adorn the double doors, while soft white lights twinkle overhead. On each side of the entrance, potted evergreens frame the scene, completing the picture-perfect setting. Sugarplum Snowday This dreamy setup features a white playhouse with a soft pink door framed by a balloon garland in wintry greens and blush tones. Snowflake cutouts dance across the garland and around the playhouse, adding a sprinkle of winter wonder, just right for a little pretty-in-pink princess. A fluffy wreath and welcoming doormat tie it all together, while a wooden reindeer out front complements the storybook scene. Bring extra joy to the season with KidKraft’s outdoor playhouses. Explore creative ways to dress up your child’s playhouse and turn it into a family-friendly space for active play and imagination all season long. Looking for a special gift? Check out the KidKraft gift guide and discover something for every kid on your list.

Buying Guide: Kids Kitchen Playset

Children’s Pretend Kitchen Buying Guide: Tips for Choosing the Best One There's a special kind of magic that happens when a child steps behind their very own pretend kitchen counter. The clatter of wooden spoons, the turn of a pretend stovetop knob, and the serious look of concentration as they prepare a feast for their favorite stuffed animals. These are the sweet moments where imagination takes flight. If you're ready to bring this world of make-believe into your home, this guide will help you find the perfect KidKraft play kitchen for your little chef. Why a Pretend Kitchen Is the Perfect Toy for Imaginative Play A pretend kitchen provides a rich environment for pretend play, where children can imitate the grown-ups in their lives and explore new roles. It supports cognitive development as kids build real-life skills when they “bake,” “cook,” and “wash.” Language development: Naming ingredients, describing creations, and using new vocabulary expand children’s communication abilities. Problem-solving skills: Figuring out how to whip up imaginary meals or organize their kitchen fosters critical thinking. Social skills: Sharing the play space and "food" with siblings or friends encourages teamwork and cooperation. Creative storytelling: Inventing scenarios and pretending to be a chef or baker nurtures imagination. Practical life skills: Imitating real-world tasks helps build confidence and familiarity with everyday activities. Key Features To Look For in a Pretend Kitchen When shopping for a children’s pretend kitchen, consider your child’s age, personality, and your available space. Consider the following important factors to find a set that will engage your child and inspire hours of joyful play. Size and Space First, be sure to measure the space you plan to locate your new play kitchen—eyeballing it is not the way to go here. Then, check the kitchen’s measurements to ensure it can comfortably fit in your chosen spot. As for the right toy kitchen size for your child, there’s a lot of flexibility. Younger kids will grow into larger sets, while pre-schoolers still enjoy playing with smaller models. Older children may also be drawn to more detailed designs that let them take the lead in pretend play, from arranging and stocking their “pantry” to planning elaborate menus. When it comes to play kitchen height, aim for a model with countertops that sit around hip level for your child. Interactive Features and Design The details often make the biggest difference: Interactive features: Do the knobs on the oven click and turn? Do the appliance doors open and close? These unique features make playtime more realistic and entertaining. Exciting extras: Many of our pretend kitchens for kids include fun elements like: Ice makers that dispense play cubes Stovetops and faucets that light up and make sounds Beautiful styles: From retro-inspired designs to modern culinary setups, there’s a play kitchen style to match every home and personality. Accessories and add-ons A kitchen is not complete without food to cook and dishes to serve it on. While many children’s pretend kitchens come with starter accessory sets, you can expand the fun with additional play food and cookware. A well-stocked pantry of play food dishes encourages sorting, counting, and inventive recipe-making. Discover our must-have play kitchen accessories to create a complete culinary experience that will keep your little one happily occupied. Top KidKraft Pretend Kitchens to Explore While we have an entire collection of play kitchens for toddlers and older children, here are a couple of favorites that families adore. Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen Designed to fit conveniently into a corner, the L-shaped Ultimate Corner Wooden Play Kitchen is a dream come true for mini chefs-in-training. Its innovative layout is packed with features, including burners that glow, an ice maker that makes sounds, a spinning Lazy Susan under the sink, and a phone to take orders. The butcher-block style countertop, functional doors, and ample shelving provide a realistic setting for cooking adventures. Vintage Play Kitchen With timeless charm and a sweet, simple design, the Vintage White Play Kitchen captures the heart of imaginative play. Kids love the interactive details, like oven knobs that click and see-through doors on the oven and microwave to check on food’s “progress.” The durable wooden construction ensures this kitchen will be a beloved part of your playroom for years to come. This classic is perfect for toddlers developing their creative skills, and it complements any decor tastefully. Inspire Imagination With a KidKraft Pretend Kitchen A children’s pretend kitchen is a gift that keeps on giving, offering a special place for your child to grow, learn, and create memories. It’s a stage for a thousand stories, from hosting a simple tea party to running a bustling five-star restaurant. Bring imagination to life with a beautifully crafted KidKraft pretend kitchen. Discover our entire collection of play kitchens to find the ideal set for your budding chef today.

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KidKraft Parents: Favorite Holiday Traditions

This time of year, we tend to feel a little like Santa’s elves – we work hard all year making toys, especially for the big holiday rush! Of course, even the elves take a break and slow down to make memories with the ones we love. While we all celebrate differently, we’ve all found that the traditions that mean the most are often the simplest – those little things that mean a lot. So from our families to yours, here’s a peek at a few of the traditions that make the holidays feel like the holidays in our homes. Tell us about yourself! What’s your name, position here at KidKraft, and ages of your little ones? TAYLOR HERRERO: I’m Taylor Herrero, Director of Digital Marketing, and I have a 7-year-old daughter.HELEN ADAPPA: My name is Helen Adappa, and I’m Director of Brand and have a 3-year old and 5-year old!JUSTIN VICTOR: Justin Victor, Director of Brand, and dad to a 2-year-old son! What is your favorite family holiday tradition? TAYLOR: Christmas is big in our house, and we have so many little traditions. My favorite is that we make cinnamon rolls for breakfast on Christmas morning. It's nothing big or fancy, but there's something so comforting about the smell of those cinnamon rolls in the oven while we open presents.HELEN: We play "Lottery" at christmas. We use hong bao (red envelopes) and put in cards that list out cash prizes or fun prizes like picking the next restaurant. But beware! There's also punishments in there like doing the dishes or jumping up and down 10 times while saying "Daddy the Great!” JUSTIN: For our family it is all about the stockings! From silly prank gifts, or little keepsakes from places we have visited or memories we have made that year, to our favorite sweets and a gift card or two for our favorite eateries. And after gifts and stockings, it's time to stuff our faces and watch lots of sports from basketball to football, there is always some game going on in the background as we visit and share. When or how did the tradition start? TAYLOR: I think it started when my dad was a kid, and we've done it my whole life and have kept it going with my daughter. When my daughter was four, I got the cutest picture of her with a big cinnamon icing smile, and then my dad found a picture just like it of me from the same age and it was just one of those simple and special memories. HELEN: We started it when I was a teenager, and now it's one of the traditions we look most forward to every year! One year, it was kind of a scavenger hunt and led to the reveal of a big KidKraft kitchen for my daughter! She still talks about it to this day. JUSTIN: It’s one of those things that you can’t really remember where it started – it’s just always been our rhythm as a family. With a 2-year-old, we do a little more gifting for him as he's too young to understand the meaning of the stockings, but we already have his hanging from the fireplace when he's ready! Want to know how we’re celebrating this year? Whether it’s watching your favorite Christmas movie for the millionth time, lighting the menorah as a family, or sipping on your grandma’s famous hot chocolate recipe, we hope your traditions bring joy to you and your family this year. And while the traditions may stay the same, we know that the gifts change from year to year… and can be tricky to get just right! If you need some inspiration, you can check out Taylor, Helen, and Justin’s favorite holiday picks for their kids this year or Shop by Age or Skill to find something your child will love.

KidKraft Parent Holiday Picks

When the holidays roll around, you better believe that the parents who work here at KidKraft always have KidKraft toys under the tree. Why? For starters, they’re durable and developmentally appropriate for littles, encouraging active and pretend play. And most importantly, they’re fun and sure to win some holiday gasps and hugs! We sat down with a few KidKraft team members to learn their families’ favorite KidKraft toys this holiday season, from the classics to the brand new arrivals. Tell us about yourself! What’s your name, position here at KidKraft, and ages of your little ones? TAYLOR HERRERO: I’m Taylor Herrero, Director of Digital Marketing, and I have a 7-year-old daughter.HELEN ADAPPA: My name is Helen Adappa, and I’m Director of Brand and have a 3-year old and 5-year old!JUSTIN VICTOR: Justin Victor, Director of Brand, and dad to a 2-year-old son! What are your favorite KidKraft toys this holiday season? TAYLOR: In our house, dollhouses are still the most-loved items, but the KidKraft toy I am most excited about this year is our new Ultimate Spaceship!HELEN: We’ve got two this year! The KidKraft Grocery Store Check Out and the KidKraft 2-in-1 Jet and Airplane. JUSTIN: The 2-in-1 Transforming Fire Truck Playset! Why is this toy your (or your kids’) favorite this holiday season? TAYLOR: It is just unbelievably cool and one of those toys I wish I would have had because what kid doesn't want to blast off to outer space?! HELEN: I love these items because my kids already love to play “grocery store” and “airport” all the time, and I know they'll love all the little surprises inside! JUSTIN: This transforming toy is perfect as a vehicle for my son to push around the house, and then it turns into an awesome play set with cool, bendy characters and skill and action blasters that he loves to shoot! It also includes a dog and cat character, and he is all about his pets right now. Tell us about your pick! What are the benefits, and why do you love it? TAYLOR: I love it because it really puts kids in the driver seat of their very own spaceship. It has lights and sounds, it rocks back and forth to simulate flying through space and has all the added details kids love like buttons, switches, and a projector to display galaxy lights on your ceiling.HELEN: I love them a lot because they are so realistic! That's key when my kids play. They’re also a fun way to teach my kids life skills, JUSTIN: My son gets so excited when he sees real rescue vehicles, and this great item brings that magic to life in his little world. Shop their picks! Ready to find your own KidKraft holiday favorite? Shop Taylor, Helen, and Justin’s favorites below, or use our Shop by Age or Shop by Skill features to find the perfect gift for your little one’s age and interests. Ultimate Spaceship KidKraft Grocery Store Check Out KidKraft 2-in-1 Jet and Airplane Shop all Play Sets

KidKraft Parent Series: Best Toddler Toys from A KidKraft Parents

Best Toddler Toys from a KidKraft Parent For the parents who work here, KidKraft is more than just a job – it’s part of their daily life at home with their own kids. That’s why there’s no better experts on KidKraft toys than our very own KidKraft parents! As part of our KidKraft parent series, we talked with our own Christine Olsen about which KidKraft toys have meant the most to her kids in the toddler years and beyond. Here’s what she had to say about play, creativity, and the best toddler toys! Tell us a bit about yourself and your family! I've recently joined the KidKraft marketing family but their products have been part of our family for years. How old is your little one or little ones? My son is now 9 and my daughter is 7 but they still LOVE KidKraft and think I work at the "funnest" place in the world. They always offer to come and "test out the toys." What's your favorite KidKraft toy? Our favorite KidKraft toys are the activity tables. Our son is on the spectrum as well as dyslexic and the train tables were absolutely THE favorite in our house. Thousands of hours of building, moving, lining up and taking apart trains and cities were an integral part of his toddler years. As he got older, he transitioned to the brick tables, and these are still part of our daily family life. Everyone that comes to our house is fascinated by the HUGE and intricate city scape with carefully designed tableaus in every nook and cranny. What makes it your favorite? Everyone, child or adult, deserves to have an escape or passion that allows them to escape reality for a little bit and feel like their best selves. For our son, that is the activity of building and engineering his own world where his imagination can run free and he can truly be himself. When he was a toddler, that looked like creating his own worlds with the train tables; now, it’s the same thing on a more advanced level with the brick tables. As a parent of a child who faces additional challenges in everyday school, it's such a gift to have a place in the home that he can always go to that soothes his mind and soul. Looking for a toy that unlocks your toddler’s passions and creativity? Browse our activity tables, train sets, toddler play kitchens, and outdoor toddler climbers to find the perfect fit for your little one’s unique interests.

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!

KidKraft Parent Series: Toddler Hacks for First Time Parents

Toddler Tips for First Time Parents They say it takes a village… and that’s especially when you’re a first-time parent facing the toddler years! And trust us – we’ve been there. Because here at KidKraft, most of us are parents ourselves. Since we know how tough toddler parenting can be, we asked six of our KidKraft parents to share their best toddler tips and what they learned (or are still learning!) through their own kids’ toddler years. Here’s what they had to say: Tell us a bit about yourself and your family! GEOFF WALKER: I’m Geoff, KidKraft’s CEO. My wife and I have two kids, a daughter and son who are now into their teenage years.TAYLOR HERRERO: I'm Taylor! KidKraft’s Director of Digital Marketing. I've worked at KidKraft for almost 4 years. I have one daughter, and we call our little family “The Triangle.” You'll often find us in the backyard, watching movies in a giant fort or having a Friday night dance party in the living room. NERINGA: Hi! I'm Neringa, Finance Assistant for KidKraft. I joined KidKraft in November of 2021. My partner and I have a 1 year old son, Cyrus, and we call ourselves a "squad."LEAH HOOKE: Hi! I'm Leah, I work as Dealer Support with KidKraft. I've been with KidKraft for 4 years, almost 5, and work with the best people! I have two little girls who mean the world to me (but also want me to pull my hair out).KAREN CANE: Hello! I'm Karen, Assistant Brand Manager here at KidKraft. I joined the KidKraft Brand Team in November 2021. My family is a party of five! I have three amazing kiddos that I adore. We love going on walks at the park and are always singing, dancing and playing instruments in our house.HELEN ADAPPA: I'm Helen Adappa, KidKraft’s Director of Brand Marketing. I have two sassy little ones with my husband. How old is your little one or little ones? GEOFF: Hard to believe, but they’re 18 and 16 already.TAYLOR: Almost 7 now. NERINGA: 13 months, a freshly baked toddler. LEAH: They are 6 and 10, both born in November.KAREN: 6, 4 and 10 months.HELEN: They're 2 and 5 years old. What's one thing you learned early on in becoming a parent? GEOFF: Everyone always told me that patience is the key, and you never know how true that really is until you have kids. TAYLOR: One of the first things I learned is that there is no "right way." Every kid is different, and you have to go with the flowNERINGA: That things will rarely go as you plan... and you have to be prepared for change, to reschedule, cancel, and generally go with the flow of your child instead of trying to stick to what you expected. LEAH: Your life changes like everyone says, but also your version of love changes. It grows every day with your baby into something you've never felt before.KAREN: It's okay to make a mess! You and your child can always clean it up. It's important for your child's development to feel like they can make a mess, throw out all their building bricks ALL over the floor, etc.HELEN: Patience. so much patience. What is one tip you'd give to any new parent? GEOFF: The days might seem slow, but the years go by fast. Be present and connected and know that it's usually the small moments like simply playing together that they'll remember (and you'll cherish) the most. TAYLOR: Don't worry about the latest parenting method. Instead, adopt the "whatever works" method. Take cues from your kid, figure out what works for them and your family and don't compare yourself with other parents. NERINGA: Little kids, little worries. Big kids, big worries... Don't rush anything, stay in the moment, and enjoy this journey. Especially in the 1st year, because time flies by so fast!LEAH: Soak in those first few weeks and months of parenthood. It seems like long days and nights at first, but that is where your bond grows with your child. Soon, you'll find yourself wishing you were rocking that tiny baby again!KAREN: When you get frustrated with them or lose your patience, remind yourself that they are learning everything for the first time. If we can't be patient with them, how can we expect them to be patient? (This of course is still something I have to remind myself of daily!)HELEN: When you're having a bad day (and let's be honest, we all have those days with them), turn it around by playing dress up/ fashion show. Try on all those ridiculously cute outfits that were way too expensive but you or others got for the little one. It just really instantly changes the mood and they're SO CUTE that you can't help but kiss them. What helps you get through the toddler stage? GEOFF: Did I mention patience? TAYLOR: Patience! It's way easier said than done, but try to remember that while something may seem small to us, it's big to them. Take a moment to breathe, get down on their level and hear them out. And know that if you fail (which you will!), you can try again tomorrow. NERINGA: We could take some tips for this one ourselves! :) Our toddler had his first tantrum the other week. We did not know it was a tantrum, we thought something was wrong with him, like maybe he was in pain… so we took him to the doctor. So my advice is to know that you just have to figure out some things as you go… and then have a laugh!LEAH: For toddlers that are throwing a fit or upset – get on their level. Sit with them on the floor or kneel down. Look at them at eye-level and listen fully. Let them try to tell you what's wrong and express their emotions in their own way. They learn that their parents will always be there to listen when they have any troubles. This is so important once they get into grade school.KAREN: Try to focus on the things you LOVE about the toddler stage! The silly things they say, the sweet hugs they give, the way they adore you.HELEN: Remember that just like the tough parts of the baby stage (sleepless nights, spit up, etc.) passed, the tough parts of the toddler stage (tantrums, potty training, etc.) will pass too! You survived baby stage, and you’ll survive toddler stage too! What's your kiddos’ favorite playtime activity? GEOFF: My daughter was super into Barbies, and my son was a huge Lego fan. Both of them enjoyed that creative, make believe play. It's really cool to see some of the toys we make at KidKraft and think about how my kids would have loved them. TAYLOR: Dolls! Really any type of make believe play, but she gravitates to dolls.NERINGA: We have a very active boy, he loves passing and kicking balls, dancing together to his favorite baby songs like "Head Shoulders Knees & Toes,” and playing chase. LEAH: Imaginary play! Anything from playing school to imagining their entire “grown up” life.KAREN: They love pretending they are in a band, building with building bricks, drawing, and playing with anything that drives or flies.HELEN: Role playing! They love pretending to cook, sell food, playing firemen/women, restaurant, dinosaurs, pirates, you name it! What’s your Favorite KidKraft toy, and why is it a perfect fit for your little one? GEOFF: My favorite KidKraft toy would have to be one of our swing sets. We have a new one that just launched called the Bear Cave Lodge, and it is insanely cool and offers so many ways to play. My teenagers are too old for it now, of course, but they would have loved it back in the day!TAYLOR: Any of our large, mansion-style dollhouses. We've had a few over the years and are currently loving the Grand Horse Stable Dollhouse. It's perfect because it can be whatever her imagination wants it to be that day – a house, a hotel, a summer camp. And bonus! Our large dollhouses make the perfect wall to build a fort from!NERINGA: He loves the play kitchens! The many little pans and pots always keep him busy. He watches us cook and do the dishes, and then tries to copy the same things we do in his own play kitchen. Adorable! LEAH: The Farm to Table Kitchen. The Farm to Table Kitchen is the absolute cutest and comes with so many accessories to play with. You can combine it with the Let's Pretend Shopkeeper Stand and act like you have a full-service market that can make some delicious salads and tasty drinks!KAREN: We just got a KidKraft study desk for our son who is in kindergarten, and he is loving having a child-size table that is only his where he can draw, do homework, and have a space to himself. (Because that's pretty rare when you have two other siblings!) My daughter loves playing with her Disney princess dollhouse, and the baby also loves destroying the furniture in the dollhouse… even though it makes his sister mad!HELEN: The Farm to Table Kitchen. Super beautiful, really realistic – my kids play with it for hours!Want more tips for getting through the toddler years? Check out our library of posts on child development to learn what makes your kiddos tick and how you can support them through each stage!

KidKraft Parent Series: Favorite Outdoor Toys for Toddlers

Favorite Outdoor Toys for Toddlers When we were rounding up recommendations for the best outdoor toys for toddlers, we wanted to go straight to the source: the toddlers themselves. But since they were napping, we settled for the next best thing – their parents. Here’s what seven of our favorite KidKraft parents had to say when we asked about their toddlers’ favorite outdoor toys! LAUREN O’CONNER: Bubbles, Sidewalk Chalk, & Family Games Lauren is KidKraft’s Senior Account Manager and mom of a four year old toddler. 1. Our favorite outdoor items are bubbles and sidewalk chalk! Lily loves to create and show off her drawings and writing her name. 2. We love to go for long walks outside as well as play hide and seek! We try to use our imagination as much as possible and just enjoy the beautiful weather together! NERINGA MIKUTAITE: Playground Slides Neringa is KidKraft’s Financial Assistant and mom of a toddler. It's that simple playground slide for us! My boy loves watching the other kids go down the slide and then going and trying it for himself. It's always fun, and it doesn’t hurt that trying to walk up the slide tires him out for better sleep at night! TAYLOR HERRERO: Bubbles, Cozy Escape Playhouse, & Imagination Taylor is KidKraft’s Director of Digital Marketing and a girl mom. 1. Good old fashioned bubbles! The whole family gets into this one, including the dog who loves to jump up and eat them. 2. Our KidKraft Cozy Escape Playhouse. I love how my daughter can explore and play on her own while I take care of things in the yard or house. She gets some much needed independence while I get a few uninterrupted moments too! 3. Pure imagination – especially pretending to be explorers! This one brings back so many memories of being a kid and imagining that my yard was a giant forest, full of obstacles and challenges. It's so fun to see what my daughter will make believe and to pretend to be a kid again too. GEOFF WALKER: Nerf Footballs & Scooters Geoff Walker is KidKraft’s CEO and a dad of two teenagers. When my kids were younger, playing outside was all about burning off energy with things we could do together as a family. We loved to play catch, and our Razor scoots and Nerf footballs were constantly in use. LEAH HOOKE: Bikes + Skates, Sidewalk Chalk, & Imagination Leah is part of KidKraft’s Dealer Support team and is a mom of two under 10. Our girls love scooters/ bikes/ roller skates! They love being active and able to zoom around with friends. Also, you can never go wrong with some sidewalk chalk and an endless imagination! KAREN CANE: Water Beads Karen is KidKraft’s Assistant Brand Manager and is a busy mom of three kids, 6 and under. We love playing with water beads both outside and inside! They're the best sensory items for kids and adults. Need some more outdoor inspiration for your toddler? Follow us on Instagram where we’ll feature other parents’ favorite outdoor KidKraft toys all summer long! And be sure to browse through KidKraft’s full line of outdoor toys, including swing sets, playhouses, and toddler climbers!

Introducing KidKraft's Parent Series

Parenting isn’t easy, but we believe it can and should be fun… at least most of the time. That’s why our mission has always been to make toys that promote imaginative and active play – the kind that’s great for your kiddos’ brains and bodies and lets you catch a break. It’s also why we’re launching our new KidKraft Parent Series!Our Parent Series has one goal in mind: make your parenthood easier and more fun! (Okay, so two goals?) We’ll bring you our best tips on everything from avoiding tantrums to packing a toddler’s diaper bag to introducing a new baby to your toddler. Even better? Our Parent Series keeps a heavy focus on the fun with play ideas and product roundups for every situation. Rainy days? Got you covered. Pretend play as a family? We’ll help you make it happen! After over 50 years in the biz of making child-led, child-focused toys, we know a thing or two about helping toddlers, preschoolers, and parents have fun together! And we can’t wait to share it all! So how can you get in on all the good stuff? Just check in on our blog for all of our latest Parent Series posts, and follow us on social media where we’ll link to our favorites! See you soon!