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.
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Mother's Day Crafts & Activities for Kids
Mother's Day Crafts & Activities for Kids: Fun & Easy Ideas to Celebrate Mom Mother’s Day is the perfect time for children to shower Mom with love—and what better way to do that than with some easy crafts and fun activities that create lasting memories? If you need inspiration, we’ve got creative ideas that will make Mom feel extra special. And don’t worry, no fancy supplies or stress required! Easy Mother’s Day Crafts for Kids Moms love to receive handmade gifts from their little ones! These simple Mother’s Day art projects are a fun way for kids to make something special that Mom will cherish forever. Handmade Mother’s Day Cards A store-bought card is nice, but one made with tiny hands is even better! Let kids go all out with markers, stickers, and whatever crafty supplies you have on hand. They can add a heartfelt message, a drawing of Mom, or even a fun pop-up surprise inside. “Reasons I Love You” Jar This simple but meaningful craft is a gift Mom will treasure. Have kids write (or dictate) reasons they love their mom on small slips of paper, then fold them up and place them in a decorated jar. From lighthearted (“You make the best pancakes!”) to sentimental (“Your hugs always make me feel better”), these little notes will make her smile every time she pulls one out. Thumbprint Family Tree Canvas This keepsake-worthy craft turns little fingerprints into a beautiful family tree. Start with a blank canvas and paint a simple tree trunk and branches. Then, have each family member add their thumbprint as a “leaf” using different paint colors. Add names next to each print for a personal touch. It’s a one-of-a-kind masterpiece Mom will love. Fun Mother’s Day Activities for Kids Beyond giving Mom gifts she’ll cherish, Mother’s Day is also about making her feel special by spending quality time together. These fun and simple activities let kids take the lead in planning a day Mom’s sure to love. Playhouse Garden Surprise What’s better than a bouquet of flowers from your local florist? A playhouse that can be used as a flower shop for Mom and the kids to enjoy together! If your little one’s playhouse has built-in garden boxes, turn it into a sweet and simple Mother’s Day activity by picking flowers from the yard or garden together and creating a special flower bundle. Then, plant the blooms side by side in the playhouse planters to brighten up the space—and set up a pretend flower shop while you’re at it. It’s a fun, hands-on way to bond and make lasting memories while getting a little messy. Mother’s Day Breakfast in Bed Let Mom start her special day with a little extra relaxation and a delicious homemade breakfast. Kids can take charge (with a little help, depending on their age) by preparing a simple tray of fruit, toast and juice or setting up a pretend feast with their play kitchen. Outdoor Picnic & Storytime Turn Mother’s Day into a mini outdoor adventure with a cozy picnic in the backyard or at a local park. Pack some favorite snacks, grab a comfy blanket, and bring along a few of Mom’s favorite children’s books. An outdoor picnic with some reading baked in is the perfect way to unwind, cuddle up, and enjoy some quality time together. Final Thoughts The best Mother’s Day gifts are the ones made with love and shared with joy. Whether it’s a heartfelt craft, a special meal, or a fun outdoor activity, these simple ideas help kids show Mom just how much she means to them. And if you’re looking for the perfect playhouse, pretend kitchen, or outdoor setup to make these moments even more magical, you’ll find KidKraft products are designed for creativity and fun!
KidKraft Assembly & Installation
KidKraft Assembly & Installation Proper installation is key to ensuring your playset is safe and sturdy for your kids. Each swing set comes with KidKraft assembly instructions that are clear, easy-to-follow, and only require basic tools and a bit of mechanical know-how. However, we understand that not everyone has the time or energy to tackle the playset assembly themselves. That’s where our playset assembly service comes in! If you'd rather skip the hassle, our professional playset installation services are here to make sure your playset is set up safely and ready for backyard adventures. When you order installation online, you can rest easy knowing the job will be done right, so your kids can start enjoying their new playset right away. How Does Assembly Support Work? Once you've decided to get a playset with assembly and have placed your order, we make sure the assembly process is as smooth as possible. Within one week, our team will contact you to confirm installation availability in your area and ensure that your yard is prepared for the swing set installation. If your yard doesn’t meet the necessary criteria, we’ll let you know right away, as we won’t be able to proceed with the installation. Your swing set will be shipped to the KidKraft installation office located closest to your area, and once they receive it, they'll reach out to schedule your installation. On the day of installation, the installer will deliver the swing set directly to your yard—you won’t need to worry about dealing with any third-party delivery hassles. After the set is assembled, all packaging and debris will be cleared away, leaving you with a perfectly installed playset and zero cleanup required! How Do I Select Assembly Support? Selecting assembly support for your playset is easy - simply select to add assembly installation on the product page. You can also visit our "Swing Sets with Install" page for the full list of swing sets we offer assembly. If you have any questions about the assembly installation process, contact our customer service team! Where is Assembly Available? Installation services may not be available in all areas. Once we confirm your installation details, we’ll email you with the information. Please note that in some cases, this may cause a delay in shipping. Most installation costs cover locations across the contiguous U.S., though some remote areas may incur additional charges. If installation isn’t available in your area, we’ll notify you promptly and discuss refund options. Additionally, if there are any location-specific challenges, such as additional mileage fees for remote areas, we’ll discuss them with you upfront. Assembly Terms & Conditions Here are the important terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and successful installation of your playset. Please review the following guidelines to help us provide the best possible service. To ensure a smooth installation process, we ask that an adult, at least 18 years old, be present during the setup. This person must be authorized to make decisions regarding the placement of the swing set and address any questions or issues that may arise during installation. Please note that any changes to the placement after installation will incur additional fees. If your neighborhood has a Homeowners Association (HOA), you will need to secure their approval before installation can proceed. Our installation includes leveling of the ground up to 6 inches where the swing set touches the ground but does not cover full site leveling or any other preparation. If additional ground leveling or site work is needed, these costs will be handled directly with the installer and paid on-site. You are responsible for ensuring there are no sprinkler systems or other underground utilities in the installation area. The installer will not be liable for any damage to these systems within the designated work zone. To help ensure a smooth installation, we may request pictures of your yard to avoid any surprises. Please send these photos to customerservice@kidkraft.com Access to electricity within 150 feet of the installation site is required. If this is not available, rescheduling may incur additional charges. For safety reasons, please keep children away from the work area until the installer gives the go-ahead. Additionally, all dogs and other pets should be kept inside or securely leashed during the installation. Please note that installation dates are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control, such as bad weather or equipment failure. If we are unable to find an installer in your area, you have a few options: 1) Keep the swing set and receive a refund for the installation service, or 2) Cancel the order and receive a full refund before shipping. Shop KidKraft’s outdoor swing sets with installation today. Leave the setup to the professionals and enjoy a hassle-free experience, so your kids can start having fun with their new playset in no time!
Our Swing-N-Slide Swing Collection
Our Swing-N-Slide Swing Collection Swing-N-Slide Collection Swings A playground doesn't feel complete without a swing—and kids know that! You simply can't beat the feeling of soaring on a high-quality outdoor swing. It’s the kind of classic playground fun that never gets old and kids will remember for a lifetime. KidKraft offers customizable playset swings to match your kids' energy and play style. Learn about some of our best outdoor swings below to help bring your backyard play experience to the next level. From the humble, yet classic, swing seat, to outdoor toddler swings, to more modern and exciting options like the nest swing, you’ll find the perfect swing for your little ones at KidKraft. Swing Seat The classic swing seat is a backyard staple that never goes out of style! Designed to flex and bend to fit every child comfortably, it’s a timeless favorite that’s as comfy as it is fun. Lightweight yet incredibly durable, this swing seat is perfect for hours of outdoor play. What makes it even better? The 58-inch zinc-plated steel chains are coated in vinyl for a pinch-free grip, so kids can swing fast and high without worry. Plus, the steel quick-link connections make attaching it to almost any wooden swing set a breeze. With a sturdy 27-inch plastic seat and a curved, cozy design, this swing is built to last through countless afterschool adventures and playdates. Holding up to 115 pounds, it’s a reliable choice for endless outdoor fun. And, like all our products, it meets or exceeds ASTM safety standards. Child Seat Looking for a fun and safe way to get your littlest adventurer in on the outdoor action? The child seat is just what you need! With its durable one-piece design and a comfy safety belt, this toddler swing is built for swinging fun without compromising safety. This seat can hold up to 55 pounds and easily attaches to any standard-duty swing hanger, making setup a breeze. What sets this swing apart is the pinch-free nylon rope, ensuring tiny fingers stay safe during playtime. It’s also thoughtfully designed for maximum comfort, so your little one can swing happily for hours. Mount it at just the right height—low enough for safety but high enough for excitement—and let your child push off and enjoy the ride. With space to add multiple seats on the frame, it’s perfect for siblings or friends to join in the fun together! Glider Swing For a swing that doubles the fun, the dual ride glider swing is a perfect pick for kids who love to soar through the air together. Whether it’s siblings sharing a laugh or two friends making memories, this swing is all about encouraging cooperation and creating joyful moments. Bonus: no chains mean no pinched fingers—just carefree fun! With a sturdy design that supports up to 150 lbs., it’s ideal for two little adventurers to swing side by side. And don’t let the double seat fool you—it’s super easy to attach to your swing set’s hanger. This swing comes with clear instructions and helpful illustrations, so you’ll have it ready to go in no time. Trapeze Bar Got a little gymnast or thrill-seeker in the family? A trapeze bar in your own backyard is the ultimate way to fuel their adventurous side while encouraging healthy, active play. It’s a fantastic addition to any swing set, bringing variety and excitement to your child’s outdoor fun. The best part? Installing the trapeze bar is a breeze. No major changes to your swing set are needed, and in no time, your kids will be swinging, flipping, and climbing to their hearts’ content. If you already have a Swing-n-Slide playset, this add-on is a no-brainer for giving it a fresh twist! This set includes sturdy plastic hand grips and a safe, durable trapeze bar—just what every energetic kid needs. Designed to hold up to 250 lbs. (with Extra Duty Swing Hangers sold separately), it’s a gift that’ll keep the fun going year-round. Nest Swing For the ultimate crowd-pleaser, meet the nest swing. This new playground superstar has room for multiple kids, making it perfect for group play which encourages little ones build social skills through sharing and taking turns. Plus, as they swing, they’re honing their agility, balance, and coordination—the “ABC” of childhood development. This swing is also versatile! One child can enjoy stretching out for some solo relaxation, soaking up the sun on a lazy summer afternoon or even turning it into a cozy outdoor reading nook. Whether it’s for energetic play or peaceful downtime, the nest swing does it all. Built with a sturdy steel frame and durable fabric, this swing is as tough as it is comfy, holding up to 200 lbs. and accommodating up to three kids at a time. It’s a must-have for creating endless memories in your backyard! Summing Up Your Swing Adventures You already know swings are the perfect piece to finish the backyard playground puzzle – and at KidKraft, you’ll find a variety of options to choose from. Regardless of which swing style you choose, our swings will provide a safe and fun experience for your children. Shop swings and swing sets online today.
Swing Set Buying Guide
A backyard playset doesn't feel complete without a swing—and kids know that! You simply can't beat the feeling of flying high on a high-quality swing. It’s the kind of classic outdoor fun that never gets old and that kids will remember for a lifetime. Knowing swings are the star of the show, we offer several types of swing sets for kids, so you have plenty of options to choose from when shopping for a kids swing set for your yard. Discover how to choose a swing set and learn about the different options and features available in this swing set buying guide. How to Choose a Swing Set When choosing a swing set, consider your child's age and interests. Toddlers benefit from bucket swings with secure seats, while older kids love swing seats that let them fly higher. If you have multiple kids or frequent playdates, opt for sets with different swing types, like gliders or nest swings, so everyone can join in. Be sure to check weight limits and age recommendations to ensure the set grows with your kids. Also, think about your yard space and the type of materials. Compact frames work well for smaller areas, while larger sets with extra features—like slides or monkey bars—offer more play options. Weather-resistant finishes are a must to keep your swing set looking great and ready for years of outdoor fun. Buying Guide: KidKraft Kid’s Swing Sets From cozy child seat swings for the littlest ones to high-flying swing seat for older kids, and more, we offer a variety of options to suit every age and adventure level. Explore our collection to find the perfect swing for your backyard playset. Swing Seat This swing is the classic option. It's flexible enough to adapt and bend to every body shape while still being super comfortable and durable. Featuring a 58" zinc-plated steel chain that comes with vinyl coating for a pinch-free grip, this seat makes swinging fast both safe and easy. Thanks to its steel quick-link connections, you'll easily attach this swing seat to almost any wooden swing set. Its curved, cozy design it allows for all year fun and is sure to be a staple of your kid’s outdoor play. It is perfect for afterschool playdates with all your kid’s friends or for quick breaks from homework. This seat holds up to 115 lbs. and you can attach it to any standard swing hanger. Every one of our swing seats meets or exceeds ASTM standards, and this swing seat is no exception. Child Seat Want a great way for even the littlest member of the family to join in the outdoor excitement? The child seat is the perfect combination between safety and swinging fun. It supports up to 55 pounds and, like the classic swing seat, you can attach it to any standard duty swing hanger. It’s the perfect no hassle, no stress option and makes outdoor play a breeze. Our motto is safety first, and because of that, this child swing seat comes with a nylon rope that provides a pinch-free grip, so you know your kid will never get their fingers caught. Plus, this swing is specifically designed for comfort so your little one can swing to their heart's content. The perfect place to mount this seat is high enough off the ground for fun yet low enough for safety. Feel free to fit more than one seat on each frame and have multiple kids having fun together at once! Glider Swing Are you ready for a two-for-one? The dual ride glider swing is the go-to choice for kids to bond while they swing and fly high. This design can hold up to 150 lbs., making it perfect for two little friends who want to swing together and for families with two siblings who want to sit in the swing seat at the same time. It’s also great for promoting cooperation and building friendships. The best part is they will never pinch their hands on any chains! Trapeze Bar Do you have a little gymnast in the family? Maybe just a guy or gal who loves a little adrenaline rush in the morning? Having a trapeze bar right in their own backyard is the ideal way to scratch that itch while promoting healthy habits. Plus, it’s a great for adding variety to your swing set by giving your kids even more safe ways to play. This incredible package includes plastic hand grips that are super durable, and a super safe trapeze bar. The trapeze bar can hold up to 250 lbs. when you match it with Extra Duty Swing Hangers, which we offer separately. You can install the trapeze bar without much hassle or having to change the structure of your swing set. It's the perfect gift for the little ones with lots of energy! Nest Swing Out of all our swings, the nest swing has become one of the most popular designs. This swing seat can fit multiple kids at once, making it a fun, social experience for everyone involved. Not only that, but it also teaches kids about sharing and taking turns. This swing seat can also become super relaxing when used by one child. Kids can lay down and unwind under the bright sun during a summer afternoon, or even use it as a unique study space. The best thing about this swing is its versatility since there are so many ways to enjoy it! The structure is made with a steel frame and heavy-duty fabric: it's where secure sturdiness meets comfort to provide countless hours of fun. The nest swing can hold up to 200 lbs. and will hold up to three children at once. Importance of the Right Swing Set Choosing the right swing set is key to creating a safe, engaging space where kids can play, grow, and make lasting memories. A well-matched swing set keeps children active, helping to build coordination, strength, and confidence with every push and swing. It’s important to select a set that fits your child's age and abilities; bucket swings provide security for toddlers, while older kids enjoy more freedom with swing seats. The right swing set also ensures your investment lasts as your family grows. Adjustable or multi-use swing options can adapt to your children’s changing needs, reducing the need for upgrades. Swing Set Safety Safety is essential when choosing and maintaining a swing set. Look for sets made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials like treated wood to ensure durability through all seasons. Smooth edges, secure fasteners, and sturdy chains or ropes reduce the risk of injuries during play. Here are a few key safety tips: Install the swing set on level ground with soft surfaces like mulch or rubber mats underneath. Regularly inspect for loose bolts, worn ropes, or damaged parts and repair them promptly. Teach children to sit properly on swings and avoid standing or jumping off mid-swing. Supervise younger kids during play to prevent accidents. Always follow the manufacturer’s weight limits and recommended ages to make sure the swings are a good fit for your kids. At KidKraft, you can find anything from classic swing seats to comfortable and brand-new nest swings. Choose one or many to make your kid's playground experience more exciting than ever! Shop our collection of swing sets and swing-n-slide sets to create an amazing backyard experience for your kids.
Kid’s Slide Buying Guide
Upgrading your backyard playset with a high-quality kid’s slide opens the door to thrilling new adventures for kids of all ages. Find tips for how to choose kid’s slides and learn about the key features and unique benefits of our various slides for kids so you can find the perfect one to complement your existing wooden swing and slide set. How to Choose a Kid’s Slide When choosing a kid’s slide, the first thing to consider is your child’s age and stage. For toddlers, a shorter slide with gentle slopes and raised sides provides a fun and safe introduction to sliding. Older kids, on the other hand, love the thrill of longer, twisty slides, tube slides, or even dual-lane options for racing their friends! Keep an eye on weight limits and recommended ages to ensure the slide is a perfect fit now and for the next few years. Also consider the material and maintenance requirements. Plastic slides, for example, are lightweight, weather-resistant, and stay cooler in the sun—perfect for backyard use. Safety features like non-slip steps and handrails are also important and add extra peace of mind. Buying Guide: KidKraft Kids Slides From classic straight slides to exciting wave and tube options, we’ve got a variety of kid’s slide styles to suit every adventure level. Whether you're shopping for toddlers or thrill-seeking older kids, one of these 5 kid’s slides should match your needs. Cool Wave Slide Available in a variety of colors, the Cool Wave slide adds vibrant fun and unique excitement to playgrounds. This innovative wavy design provides an extra thrill as kids surf the ripples down. Engineered for safety and built to last with robust polyethylene construction, the Cool Wave slide delivers endless all-weather play. Key Features: Sloped side walls for added grip and sliding security Durable material withstands outdoor elements Meets ASTM standards for trusted quality Adds color and delight with a wavy shape Turbo Tube Slide Energize backyard playtime by turbocharging it with this bold tube slide. The smooth spiraling tunnel delivers twisting, racing thrills kids love. This turbo tube is built to last for seasons of action. Key Features: Spiraling tube design provides twisting rides Durable plastic construction made for outdoors Supports up to 250 pounds Complements standard playset deck heights Super Scoop Slide Swooping excitement awaits with the Super Scoop slide. Glide through the smooth scoop-shaped tunnel as you speed up for a fun ride. With multiple size options, it fits varying backyard setups. Quickly mount it yourself using the included hardware for a simple playset upgrade. Key Features: Available in different sizes to fit deck heights Curved scoop slope for enclosed thrill rides Durable polyethylene construction is weather-resistant Comes with all required hardware for DIY install Super Wave Scoop Slide Make a splash with the Super Wave Scoop slide. With its green curving waves, this slide delivers uniquely thrilling ripples. Kids will love riding the wobbly waves down. Designed for ages 3 to 10, its durable plastic construction means years of safe use. Mounts easily to any 5' deck. Key Features: Curved green wave design for visual and riding thrills Safely enclosed for kids ages 3 to 10 Made from weather-resistant polyethylene Transforms playsets fast with 5' deck compatibility Super Summit Slide Trusted American quality meets safety and smiles with the Super Summit slide. Built-in the USA from sturdy polyethylene plastic, this green slide withstands regular use for years. The smooth slope helps little ones feel secure. Key Features: Proudly made in the USA for trusted quality Designed for kids ages 2 to 10 Open entrance with enclosed side walls Meets safety certifications for carefree play Compatible with standard 5' deck heights Importance of the Right Slide Choosing the right slide isn’t just about fun—it’s also essential for your child’s safety and overall play experience. A slide that’s too steep or long for younger kids can be intimidating, while a slide that’s too small for older children may not hold their interest. Finding the right fit helps kids feel secure and excited to play, encouraging physical activity and boosting coordination skills as they climb, slide, and repeat. The right slide can also grow with your child and complement the rest of your outdoor play area. Durable, age-appropriate slides reduce the need for frequent upgrades, saving you time and money in the long run. Kid’s Slide Safety Safety is a top priority when choosing the perfect slide for your little ones. Look for kid’s slides made from high-quality, durable materials to withstand outdoor elements without fading or cracking. Rounded edges and smooth finishes reduce the risk of scrapes, while sturdy, non-slip steps and handrails provide extra support during climbs. Here are some quick safety tips: Place the slide on level ground and anchor it securely. Add soft ground cover beneath the slide, like mulch or rubber mats, to cushion falls. Always supervise young children and teach them to slide feet-first. Follow the manufacturer’s weight limits and recommended age ranges to ensure a safe play experience for every child. Regularly inspect the slide for cracks, loose bolts, or other signs of wear. No matter which one you choose, our kid’s slides will deliver fun adventures to your backyard play space. Built with safety, durability, and easy installation in mind, they transform wooden swing sets into thrilling playtime perfection. Shop our full selection swing sets and kid's slides online.
Outdoor Playhouse Halloween Decor
Ready to turn your kids’ outdoor playhouse into a frightfully fun Halloween hideout? Decorating an outdoor playhouse for Halloween is a great way to get the whole family into the festive spirit, and it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you want to create a somewhat spooky haunted house vibe or a cute pumpkin patch, there are plenty of outdoor playhouse décor ideas to make your child’s play space ready for Halloween. Halloween Playhouse Decorating Ideas Get some inspiration with these simple Halloween decorating ideas to transform your kids' outdoor playhouse into a festive retreat: Spiders, Webs, and Spooky Things Drape fake spider webs across the playhouse windows, door, and roof. Add plastic spiders and other creepy critters to complete the eerie effect. This is a really quick and easy way to give the playhouse a spooky touch! Pumpkin Patch Porch Place a few small pumpkins and gourds on the playhouse steps or porch. Dress them up by painting them with fun faces or let the kids decorate their own pumpkins with stickers or markers. Ghoulish Getaway Create a simple ghost garland by stringing together paper or cloth ghosts and hanging them across the front of the playhouse. These mini ghosts add a cute but spooky element without being too scary for little ones. Glow-in-the-Dark Décor Glow-in-the-dark stickers and paint make great toddler Halloween decorations and are an easy way to make any playhouse festive. Stars, moons, or even glow-in-the-dark skeletons can give the playhouse a fun glow at night. Flying Bats Cut out bat shapes from black construction paper or felt and hang them from the roof of the playhouse with string or fishing line. As they sway in the wind, they’ll add a playful, spooky atmosphere. Mini Jack-O'-Lantern Lights Use battery-operated string lights shaped like mini jack-o’-lanterns to outline the door or roof of the playhouse. These add a Halloween vibe while making the playhouse extra cozy at night. Monster Mouth Entrance Transform the playhouse door into a monster’s mouth by cutting out big teeth from poster board and attaching them around the doorway. This is one fun and silly décor idea the kids are sure to love! These ideas are simple enough that your kids can help decorate and they’re also budget friendly. Whichever idea you choose, it will make your child’s playhouse the perfect spot for doing some fun toddler Halloween activities in!In need of an outdoor playhouse for your yard? Shop playhouses online today.
4 Tips to Keep Playhouses Bug Free
Kids outdoor playhouses are a fun way for little ones to tap into their creativity while enjoying playtime outside. But, like anything else, playhouses need to be regularly cleaned and maintained to last and continue to be a safe environment for kids.One of the biggest challenges with being outdoors is keeping the bugs away – and this is no different with kids playhouses. A fun playtime experience can quickly become frustrating if bugs decide to crash the party!So, instead of letting bugs ruin the playhouse fun, you can be proactive by learning how to clean your outdoor playhouse and keep it bug free. How to Clean Outdoor Playhouses Cleaning kids outdoor playhouses is necessary for keeping them safe and germ-free, and – you guessed it – bug free! Check out a simple step-by-step process for cleaning your kids playhouse below. Step-by-Step for Cleaning Outdoor Playhouses 1. Before you get started cleaning, remove all toys and movable objects to make it easier to access every corner. 2. Prepare a natural, child-safe cleaner. You can use gentle soap or a baking soda solution to scrub down any dirt. This will stop your playhouse from eroding with harsh chemicals and be kinder to children's skin if they come into contact with it. 3. With a soft brush or sponge, gently wash all surfaces to tackle dirt and grime. Pay special attention to nooks and crannies where bugs might hide. 4. After washing, rinse the playhouse with clean water. 5. Lastly, dry the surfaces with a clean towel. Alternatively, you can let them air-dry. How Often Should You Clean Kids Outdoor Playhouses A kids outdoor playhouse should be cleaned at least once a month. But during seasons where it’s being used frequently, you’ll want to clean it more often. To stay consistent, add it to your regular cleaning schedule. Other Tips to Keep Kids Outdoor Playhouses Bug Free Keeping your kids outdoor playhouses free of pests doesn’t have to be a burden. Besides the most important step of regularly cleaning it, these additional tips will help your kids playhouse remain bug free without a ton of effort on your part! Use diatomaceous earth Consider sprinkling this natural, non-toxic powder made from fossilized algae around your playhouse It acts as a deterrent for bugs, dehydrating them upon contact. Diatomaceous earth is an eco-friendly solution, offering a way to keep playhouses bug-free without harming the environment or little ones. Place insect repelling plants around the playhouse Strategically placing certain plants that naturally repel insects can create a barrier, reducing or eliminating the need for chemical repellents. For instance, lavender, marigolds, and lemongrass not only deter unwanted pests but also enhance the playhouse's aesthetic appeal. Don’t leave food behind Don’t leave food lying around. Clean up all crumbs and spills right away – and have your kids help with clean up too.Shop KidKraft's outdoor playhouses and other outdoor toys to create a magical space in your backyard that your kids will love.
How to Keep a Sandbox Clean
If you have a kids sandbox or are thinking of getting one for your backyard, you may be overwhelmed with the thought of cleaning it. You may even be wondering: How do you even keep a sandbox clean? How often should it be cleaned? Do sandboxes really need to be cleaned?We’ve got the answers to these questions and are here to reassure you that keeping a sandbox clean is nowhere near as time-consuming or complicated as you may think. It’s actually quite simple! Why It's Important to Keep Kids' Sandboxes Clean Maintaining a clean kids sandbox isn't just about aesthetics; it's important for warding off bacterial growth and creating a healthy play space for your little ones. Dirty sandboxes can become breeding grounds for bacteria and bugs, posing some health risks. But regular upkeep is easy and will give you peace of mind knowing your kids can play happily for hours in a safe, healthy sandbox. How to Keep a Sandbox Clean Maintaining a clean kids sandbox will extend the life of the sandbox and ensure it remains a safe place for play. While it takes some extra time and attention to maintain a clean sandbox, none of the tips below are difficult or extremely time-consuming – and they’re well worth the little bit of extra effort.From keeping sand fresh to using a protective sandbox cover, every step below contributes to lasting fun and hygiene. Use a Sandbox Cover A sandbox cover will keep unwanted critters out and keep debris from getting inside, while helping to preserve the sand’s integrity. But the best thing about getting a cover for your sandbox is that it will drastically cut down on cleaning time! Choosing a sandbox cover that's durable and can withstand the elements will make a world of difference. Keep Sand Fresh Refreshing the sand in your kids' sandbox periodically is important, as it prevents the sand from compacting and becoming contaminated. At a minimum, the sand should be changed once a year, but how often you change it will depend on how often it's used and how much outdoor exposure it gets. In between changes, keep it pristine by using the best sandbox cleaners that won't harm its quality. Have Kids Wash Hands Before Using Sandbox Making sure kids wash their hands before diving into play can dramatically reduce the number of germs that get into the sandbox. If feasible, think about setting up a handwashing station nearby. Check Toys Weekly and Remove Broken and Unused Ones ake doing a regular check on toys in the sandbox part of your weekly routine. Remove any broken items to avoid potential injuries and declutter the sandbox by removing toys that don’t get used often or at all. This task will help catch any damage or uncleanliness that could compromise the sand's purity. Use a Natural Pesticide This will ward off pesky bugs that love making homes in kids' play areas while keeping the sandbox a safe environment to play in. Laying a Weed Barrier Putting a weed barrier under your sandbox will block unwelcome growths from underneath. Teach Your Kids Educate your kids on the essentials of sandbox cleanliness. One of the best ways they can help is to not bring food or drinks into the sandbox, as these will attract unwanted guests. Take these steps to keep your sandbox clean and you’ll benefit from the longevity of your sandbox and your kids will enjoy wholesome fun for years to come. Shop sandboxes at KidKraft today to add this classic outdoor toy to your backyard.
