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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12 Playhouse Decor Ideas
Playhouses are just too cute to not want to decorate them a little. I mean, who can resist tiny wreaths and picket fences? And the interiors? Tiny furniture? Cozy reading nooks? We’re all about it. Here are some of our favorite playhouse decorating ideas for swoon-worthy playhouses: For the exterior Planter Boxes & Wreaths Tons of our favorite KidKraft playhouse DIYs feature adorable tiny wreaths and planter boxes. They’re an easy, inexpensive way to add a lot of extra cheer to the playhouse. https://www.instagram.com/p/CCJbH8KpbES/ Mailboxes Sure, the mail person isn’t coming to visit, but tiny mailboxes just look so precious – plus, they give you the chance to sneak sweet notes to your kiddos as they play. If your playhouse didn’t come standard with a mailbox, adding a little letterbox like this one is easy. Custom Paint Job If you’re up for a bigger project, a custom paint job can give your playhouse the exact vibe you’re looking for – from storybook cottage to farmhouse to modern. We’ve been so inspired by all of the custom KidKraft playhouse paint jobs we see on Instagram that we made a playhouse just for that purpose: the Modern Outdoor Playhouse in White is the perfect blank slate for whatever color scheme you or your littles can think up. String Lights Now that daylight hours are getting shorter, outdoor twinkle lights are a fun way to add a little magic to evening play. We especially love the look of Edison bulbs for lining the edge of your playhouse. Just be sure to use lights made for the outdoors! Welcome Mat Simple, precious, and practical, adding a welcome mat to your kiddo’s front door is a cute way to keep it clean and welcome friends inside for a playdate. Holiday Decorations If you’re like us, you have a little too much fun decorating for the holidays, and you might have just a few too many decorative pumpkins and snowmen in the attic. So spreading some holiday fun to the playhouse every season is a no brainer. We love these cozy fall decorations on our Hobby Workshop playhouse and these not so spooky Halloween decorations on our Country Vista model. If you do decorate your KidKraft playhouse for fall or Christmas this year, be sure to share and use #kidkraftkids. We’d love to see what you come up with. For the interior With the outside looking inviting and adorable, next comes the question: what do you put in a playhouse? After all, this is where all the magic and make believe really happen! Curtains Decorative and super fun for kids to open and close, curtains effortlessly dress up your little one’s own personal hideout. Café curtains are usually just the right size for playhouse windows. Kid-sized furniture Depending on the size of your playhouse, a piece or two of kid-sized furniture could be a great addition. While you don’t want to overcrowd the space, furniture can add to the realism of the playhouse and help facilitate more imaginative roleplay. Shelves While you might be tempted to fill the shelves yourself, you’ll have more fun seeing what your littles decide to put on them. Some favorite toys, their own artwork, a collection of pinecones or feathers… the possibilities are really endless with kids. Cushions & pillows Even as an adult, cuddling up in a personal getaway with your favorite book sounds amazing, doesn’t it? A few fluffy cushions or pillows can turn the playhouse into a cozy outdoor reading nook. Of course, to avoid mold or mildew, make sure to use outdoor cushions. Rugs Rugs are another playhouse accessory that can up the coziness factor. Again, be sure to go for outdoor rugs to avoid mold and mildew. Outdoor toys & games The playhouse can be an ideal place to store a few outdoor toys. It will (mostly) protect them from the elements, and kids will have easier access to them than if they were stored in a shed or garage. While big toys like basketball hoops will take up too much space, smaller things like miniature golf sets, balls, and gardening or sandbox tools make for fun additions to playhouse time.For more playhouse decorating and accessory ideas, keep up with us on Instagram. Parents are always wowing us with the way their playhouse DIYs, and we’re sure you’ll find plenty of inspiration too.And if you’re still searching for the perfect playhouse to decorate, our quality wooden playhouses have classic, aesthetic designs and “great bones” for any projects you have in mind.
Why a Halloween Playhouse Makeover Is Perfect for Kids
When the leaves get crunchy, pumpkins appear on porches, and cobwebs turn from dusting chores into décor, it can only mean one thing: Halloween is here! Sprucing up your child’s outdoor playhouse is a spook-tacular way to celebrate. It’s fun, easy on the budget, and turns your backyard into a mini trick-or-treat wonderland just for them. Even better? It’s a project you and your little goblins can do together. A Halloween playhouse makeover gives children a place to giggle, pretend and act out stories. Decorating allows kids to flex their creativity and transform their playhouse into a haunted hideaway they’ll be proud to show off. For parents, it’s quick, affordable and a way to make memories that will last long after the candy is gone (and let’s not forget all those adorable photo ops). KidKraft playhouses make the ideal centerpiece for your family’s Halloween traditions. They’re sturdy, weather-ready and easy to personalize with decorations, so you can focus on the “treat” instead of the tricks. Simple Outdoor Halloween Decor Ideas for Playhouses Get some inspiration with these simple Halloween ideas to transform your kids' outdoor playhouse into a festive retreat: Add Spooky Lights and Glow: Nothing says Halloween like a warm orange glow. Wrap jack-o’-lantern string lights around the roof or doorway, and add a few LED candles inside for a safe “haunted house” shimmer. Glow-in-the-dark stickers of stars, bats or friendly skeletons make windows and walls come alive at night without being too scary. Go for Gauze and Fabrics Add eeriness with gauzy black fabric. Drape it across windows for a mysterious peek-a-boo effect, or turn a playhouse post into a “mummy” with strips of white cloth. Ghost garlands made from tissue or felt add just the right amount of spooky-silly charm, while sheer purple curtains make the playhouse feel like a witch’s cottage. Kid-Friendly Touches Keep it fun, not frightening. Fake spider webs with plastic spiders easily stretch across a roof or doorway. A few natural, painted or foam pumpkins add autumn cheer. Let kids decorate mini pumpkins with stickers or washable markers so they can show off their pumpkin “patch” with pride. Hanging paper bats from the ceiling or porch creates movement whenever the wind blows…or maybe it’s a ghost at play? You can also go big with balloons. Decorate the playhouse and porch with bunches of orange and black balloons. They instantly make the space eye-catching and photo-ready, while giving kids the thrill of stepping into their very own Halloween balloon house. Create a Haunted House Playhouse Want to take it up a notch? With just a few extras, the playhouse can become the neighborhood’s cutest haunted house. It will become the focal point for pretend play where kids can host their own trick-or-treat night or invite friends for a round of pre-Halloween festivities. Front Porch and Yard Ideas The outside sets the mood, so dress it up to make the playhouse look like a mini monster manor. Beyond the basics, you can use simple fall touches to create the perfect backdrop for spooky play: Stack hay bales, scatter autumn leaves, and line the steps with jack-o’-lanterns (battery candles inside keep things safe). Add a small scarecrow or a “Keep Out!” sign for extra giggles. Hang paper lanterns, witches' hats, or fairy lights. Place painted pumpkins, corn stalks, or even a goofy “guard ghost” cutout near the entryway to welcome little visitors. Amp up the ambiance by setting up a speaker nearby and playing not-so-scary Halloween music. Kid-Friendly Interactive Elements A haunted house playhouse should also encourage kids to play and imagine. Add interactive touches that keep them coming back for more: Trick-or-Treat Station: Place a plastic cauldron filled with candy or toys on the porch so kids can “shop” and share. Spooky Story Corner: Toss a cozy blanket inside, add a lantern, and stock a few Halloween storybooks for read-alouds under the “moonlight.” Friendly Props: Skeletons, silly ghosts, or Halloween puzzles and games can keep the playhouse buzzing with activity all October long. Monster Doorway: Tape paper teeth or monster eyes around the doorway so kids feel like they’re walking right into a creature’s mouth. Bat Cave Hideaway: Hang paper bats from the ceiling so they flutter when kids run through. Make Halloween Magical With KidKraft in Your Backyard KidKraft playhouses are blank canvases for year-round adventures. This Halloween, create a backyard memory that’s equal parts spooky and sweet. With a few decorations, a sprinkle of creativity, and a KidKraft playhouse, your little ghouls and goblins will have a boo-tifully fun place to celebrate all season long.
Top Playground Games for Kids
Top Playground Games for Kids: Classic and Creative Ideas for Outdoor Fun The playground is where imagination and energy collide, whether kids are engaged in a game that has been passed down for generations or a spontaneous round of tag. But beyond the fun, playground games are highly beneficial, helping kids develop important life skills like teamwork, problem-solving and communication—all while burning off extra energy. Ready to make more fun memories in your backyard playground or at a park playground? Here are some of the top playground games kids love, plus ideas to keep things fresh, safe and exciting for every age. What Are the Most Popular Playground Games for Kids? Some playground children’s games never go out of style. These tried-and-true classics are easy to learn, don’t require equipment, and are guaranteed to get kids moving and having fun on the playground. Hide and Seek This fun playground game is an all-time favorite that never loses its charm. One child counts while the others find the perfect hiding spot (often inside a playhouse or tube slide on a swing set!). This game is not only a ton of fun, but it’s also great for teaching patience, spatial awareness and problem-solving. Red Light, Green Light One child plays the "traffic light" and calls out commands while the others race to reach them—but only when the light is green! It's a great way to build self-control, listening skills and balance. Hopscotch All you need is a few chalk-drawn squares and a small rock or beanbag. Kids take turns hopping through the numbered squares, improving coordination and number recognition, while having fun. Duck, Duck, Goose A perfect blend of anticipation and movement, this circle game is ideal for groups. Kids build social skills, take turns and get a burst of cardio all at once. Freeze Tag This is tag with a twist! When you’re tagged, you have to freeze until someone unfreezes you. This game helps kids practice quick thinking and teamwork while staying active. Four Square Using a ball and four connected squares, players take turns bouncing and passing the ball with the goal of staying in the game. It’s fast-paced, inclusive and great for improving coordination and focus. What Are Some Easy Games to Play on the Playground? Sometimes, the best playground games are the simplest ones, like follow the leader, balancing on a beam, or playing “lava floor” on a swing set. Even classic chase games like tag or pretend scenarios like pirates on a ship (which is a blast to play on any of our Swing-N-Slides) can lead to hours of laughter. Preschool Playground Games for Younger Kids Playground games for preschoolers should be simple and centered around interaction. At this age, kids are still learning how to take turns and navigate social play. Try these age-appropriate options: Follow the Leader: A fun way to encourage movement (toddler climbers are great to incorporate here!). Animal Walks: Pretend to hop like a frog, crawl like a bear, or waddle like a duck. Ring Around the Rosie: A gentle group game that encourages coordination and rhythm. Bubble Tag: Blow bubbles and have kids chase and pop them. Always choose games that match your child’s attention span and comfort level. For younger kids, it’s more about the experience than the rules. How to Make the Most of Your Playground Time A great playground experience, whether in your backyard or at a park, consists of a mix of structured and free play. While classic games offer fun and predictability, unstructured play allows kids to follow their instincts, try new ideas, and just be silly. Both types of play are essential for well-rounded development. Tips for adults: Step in to guide play when needed, especially if younger kids are learning how to take turns or handle frustration. Don’t be afraid to join the game! Being part of the action shows kids you're invested and makes for some pretty sweet memories. Encourage kindness, creativity and problem-solving by modeling positive behavior during play. Bring the Fun Home with Backyard Play Sets from KidKraft You don’t need to head to the park to enjoy these classic games. With this playground games list and a KidKraft outdoor playset, your own backyard becomes the perfect stage for imaginative, active play. From swing sets and climbing walls to imaginative add-ons like play kitchens or lookout towers, our playsets are built for endless adventure. Take the playground home. Explore outdoor swing sets and playhouses from KidKraft.
Outdoor Activities for Kids: How to Build a Backyard They'll Love
Outdoor Activities for Kids: How to Build a Backyard They'll Love If you’re looking to get your kids off the screens and into the sunshine (and let’s be honest, most of us are!), a fun, engaging backyard can be all it takes to spark their imagination and encourage hours of outdoor play. Regardless of the size of your outdoor space, you can create a kid-friendly space that’s inviting, exciting and safe. Learn why outdoor play is so important and discover easy ideas to help you design a space your kids will never want to leave. Why Outdoor Play is Essential for Kids While playing outside is a fantastic way to have kids burn energy, it’s certainly not the only benefit! Outdoor play also helps kids build confidence, creativity and social skills. Running, climbing, building and pretending all encourage physical development and cognitive growth, while helping kids connect with nature and enjoy some much-needed fresh air. Plus, unstructured play gives children the freedom to explore, problem-solve and invent their own fun, which is often when the best memories are made. How to Create a Fun and Safe Backyard Play Space Creating an outdoor play space your kids love doesn't require a full backyard makeover. Just a few thoughtful features can turn your yard into their favorite place to be, such as: A dedicated play zone—whether it’s a swing set, sandbox or playhouse, having a go-to space for backyard playing makes all the difference. Shaded spots—trees, umbrellas or a covered playhouse help keep outdoor play for kids cool and sun-safe. Soft ground cover—grass, mulch or play-safe turf helps cushion tumbles and protect little feet. Open space—a clear area for running, kicking ball or laying out a picnic blanket goes a long way. Water play options—think splash pads, sprinkler or even a DIY car wash for bikes and scooters. Outdoor storage—bins, benches or sheds make cleanup easy and keep outdoor toys ready to go. The goal is to make the space inviting, easy to use and full of variety so your kids keep coming back for more. Outdoor Play Ideas to Spark Imagination Kids are happiest when they’re using their imaginations. These DIY backyard play ideas are perfect for sparking creativity and encouraging unstructured, screen-free fun. DIY Backyard Play Ideas for Endless Summer Fun You don’t need to buy a bunch of toys to create excitement. Here are a few DIY-friendly ideas to try: Backyard obstacle course—ue cones, hula hoops, pool noodles and chalk for a new challenge every day. Mud kitchen—set up an old table with pots, pans and utensils for sensory-rich pretend play. Nature scavenger hunt—create a simple list of things to find: leaves, feathers, rocks, bugs, etc. Outdoor art station—set up a table with washable paints, sidewalk chalk or a big roll of paper for mural-making. Garden helper zone—give kids a corner to dig, plant, and water. These easy, fun outdoor activities for kids keep them engaged while encouraging independent and creative play. Building a Backyard Playground: Tips and Inspiration Want to add outdoor play equipment for kids to your yard? Here are a few things to consider when thinking about how to build a playground area: Size of your space—measure your yard and account for clearance around swing sets or slides. Your child’s age and interests —younger kids might prefer a cozy playhouse or toddler swings, while older ones may want monkey bars or climbing walls. Durability—look for materials like treated wood or weather-resistant finishes that hold up to sun, rain and lots of play. Safety features—choose equipment with smooth edges, secure anchors and age-appropriate heights. Expandable options—some sets can grow with your child, allowing you to add features over time. Top tip: Start with a structure that suits your current needs but leaves room for future fun. FAQs About Outdoor Play for Kids What are the best outdoor activities for kids to enjoy at home? Here are some favorites that work in almost any yard: Water balloon games Sidewalk chalk art Nature scavenger hunts Obstacle courses Backyard camping Gardening projects Swing set or sandbox play How do you keep outdoor play safe and fun for kids? Safety doesn’t mean limiting fun; it just means being prepared. Always supervise young children during active play. Make sure play equipment is properly anchored and age-appropriate. Keep the play area free of sharp objects or tripping hazards. Apply sunscreen. Keep kids hydrated. Teach kids basic outdoor safety rules, like watching for bugs and staying in designated areas. Build the Backyard of Their Dreams with KidKraft The best backyard is one that’s built with your kids in mind and gives them a space that inspires them to move, explore and let their imaginations run wild. Whether you’re adding a swing set, creating a sandbox zone or just setting up a shady corner for pretend play, a little creativity goes a long way. Ready to turn your backyard into a kid-approved wonderland? Explore KidKraft’s wooden playhouses, swing sets and sandboxes — everything you need to create unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Fun Water Activities for Kids
Fun Water Activities for Kids When the temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than turning your backyard into a mini splash zone! Water play is a fun and refreshing way to keep kids active, engaged, and laughing all summer long. Best of all, you don’t need fancy equipment or a pool to make a big splash—just a few creative ideas for water activities and a warm day. Find some of the best outdoor water activities for kids and how to set up your own water play zone at home. Why Water Play is Perfect for Summer Fun Water activities are a great way to cool off, but they’re also packed with developmental benefits. Splashing, pouring, and running through water can help kids build motor skills, improve coordination, and boost sensory awareness. Even more importantly? Fun water activities for kids provide a screen-free way to burn off energy and make summer memories they’ll never forget. Whether it’s a quick afternoon activity or a full backyard water day, having a variety of summer water activities in your back pocket is essential for making fun memories throughout the season. How to Set Up a Safe and Fun Water Play Zone at Home Creating a backyard water play area doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little planning, you can transform any outdoor space into a cool, kid-friendly zone. To set up safe, affordable water activities for kids in your backyard, follow these tips: Choose a flat, grassy or soft surface area away from steps or sharp objects. Use non-slip mats or towels if playing on a hard surface like a deck or patio. Keep water play gear age-appropriate and always supervise young kids. Use garden hoses with gentle spray settings or attach kid-friendly sprinkler toys. Set up shady areas with umbrellas or pop-up tents to avoid too much sun. Have plenty of dry towels, sunscreen, and drinking water on hand. Simple setups are easy to put together and can lead to hours of fun with water. Outdoor Water Activities for Kids These DIY water games and ideas are perfect for backyards of any size. Water Balloon Games for Kids Nothing says summer fun like water balloons! Try these easy water balloon ideas: Water Balloon Toss – Partner up and toss the balloon back and forth, taking a step back each time. Water Balloon Tag – The player who gets hit becomes “it.” Target Practice – Draw chalk targets on a fence or sidewalk and aim away! Keep these water balloon safety tips in mind: Use soft, biodegradable balloons. Pick up broken pieces right away to avoid slips or choking hazards. Make sure little ones know not to aim at faces. DIY Water Games: Creative Ways to Play You don’t need to buy anything special for DIY water games. Your home is already full of potential for fun kids’ water activities! Sponge Relay – Kids race to fill a bucket using only a soaking sponge. Cup Races – Run with a full plastic cup of water and try not to spill. Ice Excavation – Freeze small toys in a bowl and let kids “rescue” them using warm water and tools. Colander Shower – Poke holes in a plastic container and hang it for a DIY water shower. These creative games and activities are a great way to reuse what you already have while encouraging imaginative play. Fun in Water: Splash Pads and Sprinklers Turn your backyard into a summer paradise with these low-fuss favorite backyard water ideas: Set up a splash pad for younger kids to stomp and play safely. Connect a sprinkler to the hose and run obstacle courses through it. Add hula hoops, pool noodles, or jump ropes to create a water-themed challenge course. Create a “car wash” with sponges and buckets for trikes and scooters. Simple, safe, and so much fun, sprinkler games are a backyard classic for a reason! FAQs About Water Activities for Kids What are the best water activities for kids to enjoy at home? Some backyard-friendly favorites are: Splash pads Water balloon games Sprinkler obstacle courses Sponge and bucket relays DIY water tables or tubs Toy car washes How do you keep kids safe during outdoor water activities? Safety is key to stress-free summer fun. Here are a few quick reminders: Always supervise water play, no matter the child’s age. Use non-slip mats or play in grassy areas. Limit sun exposure with hats and sunscreen. Use age-appropriate toys and water pressure. Keep play areas clear of tripping hazards. A little preparation goes a long way toward safe, splashy fun. Make Summer Unforgettable with KidKraft Water play is just the beginning. When the sprinklers turn off, and the towels come out, your backyard fun doesn’t have to stop. Keep the fun going beyond water activities. Explore KidKraft’s wooden playhouses, sandboxes, and swing sets, all perfect for sparking imagination and keeping kids entertained all summer long. And be sure to check out our ultimate summer bucket list for kids!
Backyard Party Ideas for Families: 4th of July, Barbecues, Birthdays and More
Backyard Party Ideas for Families: 4th of July, Barbecues, Birthdays and More There’s nothing quite like the joy of a backyard celebration with family and friends, where conversation is easy, kids play freely, and the smell of delicious food fills the air. Whether you’re planning a festive 4th of July, a fun-filled birthday bash or a laid-back barbecue, your backyard is the ultimate party destination. Keep reading for backyard party ideas and tips to make your next outdoor gathering an unforgettable one! Why Choose Backyard Parties for Family Fun? There’s something truly special about celebrating right in your own backyard. Summer backyard parties offer a relaxed, safe and convenient way for families to come together and make lasting memories—without worrying about booking a venue or dealing with crowds. Your backyard party setup provides the perfect space for laughter, games and good food. Plus, with the kids’ swing sets and playhouses just steps away, the fun can last for hours! How to Set Up the Perfect Backyard Party: Tips and Essentials Planning a backyard bash doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few essentials, you can bring your small backyard party ideas to life and create a welcoming, festive atmosphere everyone will enjoy. Here’s a quick checklist to get you started: Comfortable seating (think picnic blankets, foldable chairs or outdoor cushions) Shade options like umbrellas or pop-up tents String lights or lanterns for evening ambiance Portable Bluetooth speaker for music Easy-to-use grill or BBQ setup Coolers stocked with drinks and ice Fun games and activities (cornhole, water balloons, bubble wands, etc.) Disposable or reusable plates, cups and utensils Bug spray or citronella candles for pest control Trash and recycling bins for easy cleanup Types of Backyard Summer Parties for Families Backyard summer parties come in all shapes and sizes, offering something fun for every family and occasion. Get inspiration from these outside party ideas that bring everyone together for memorable backyard celebrations. Birthday Parties: Celebrate Your Little One Birthdays are a perfect excuse for outdoor parties! For simple backyard party ideas for kids, go with bright decorations, a themed cake and activities like a treasure hunt, sack races or craft stations. Set up a small gift table and have plenty of snacks and drinks ready. With your swing set and playhouse, kids have built-in entertainment that will keep them happily busy. 4th of July Celebrations: Red, White and Blue Fun For 4th of July party ideas with a festive flair, deck out your yard in red, white and blue banners, balloons and tableware. Serve classic favorites like hot dogs, corn on the cob and berry parfaits. Add lawn games like horseshoes or a patriotic-themed scavenger hunt. As the sun sets, gather for sparklers or a family-friendly fireworks display to cap off the night. Backyard BBQ Parties: Grill & Thrill Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ, and these ideas are all you need for a memorable one. Fire up the grill with crowd-pleasers like burgers, veggie skewers and grilled corn. Arrange seating in cozy clusters to encourage conversation. Add lawn games or a music playlist for entertainment. For a sweet finish, consider a simple yet tasty dessert like fruit salad or s’mores. Small Backyard Party Ideas: Make the Most of Limited Space Even if your yard is on the smaller side, you can still throw an amazing party. Opt for space-saving seating like benches or stackable chairs. Use vertical décor like hanging lights or banners to add charm without crowding the ground. Choose compact games like ring toss or cards. Keep the menu simple with finger foods and easy-to-serve drinks. FAQs About Backyard Parties What are the best backyard party ideas for kids? Kids love parties where they’re free to move around a lot and use their imaginations. Setting up a mini obstacle course, craft stations or a themed scavenger hunt are all ideas that are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to use your playhouse and swing set, as they’re natural gathering spots for creative play! How do you set up a backyard party on a budget? For backyard party setup ideas that are budget-friendly, focus on DIY decorations, simple menus, and using what you already have. Homemade snacks, playlists instead of hiring a DJ, and borrowing extra chairs or tables from friends rather than renting can go a long way. Also, choose activities that require minimal supplies like water balloon tosses or classic lawn games. Create Unforgettable Backyard Memories with KidKraft With a little planning and the right touches, your backyard can become the go-to spot for family fun and celebrations all summer long. Good food, some games and time with family and friends are all you need for a memorable backyard party. Be sure to check out our at-home summer camp, summer STEM activities, and summer bucket list for kids posts for more at-home ideas for summer fun with the kids! Ready to make your backyard the ultimate party hangout? Explore KidKraft’s outdoor playsets.
How to Choose a Backyard Playset
Outdoor Play, Family-Approved: Backyard Spotlights You'll Love Wondering how to choose a backyard playset that’s just right for your family? We’ve rounded up five incredible influencers who’ve transformed their yards with our swing sets and playsets. They’re sharing their favorite features and the smiles that make it all worth it. These five influencer spotlights will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how our swing sets bring fun, adventure and imagination to life. You’ll find plenty of backyard playset ideas, from imaginative playhouses perfect for little ones to high-energy sets designed for bigger kids who love to climb, swing and slide. Rachel Ciatsko’s Backyard Playset Setup With her fabulous creativity and our Riverscape Playhouse, Rachel Ciatsko brought the "Rosie Sun Flower Shop" to life. This charming backyard playhouse encourages her family to unplug, connect and enjoy the outdoors together. From planting blooms in the garden boxes to imaginative role play inside, this setup delivers year-round fun and plenty of opportunities for screen-free play. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rachel Ann Ciastko (@the.rosie.home) A Backyard Built for Play with Caitlyn Bilbo Check out the beautiful new playground Caitlyn Bilbo created in her backyard with our McKinley Swing Set. Her goal was to design a space that was fun for BOTH her and her kids so they could spend as much time outdoors together as possible. We think the picnic table is a perfect addition to this area! Step into Tia Ball’s Backyard Play Space Tia Ball wanted to surprise her son with a playhouse. Since they have a small yard, she wanted a playhouse that fit their space but made a big impact. With its numerous engaging features (and the much-loved doggy door), the Lantana Lane Playhouse was the perfect option to encourage fun adventures right in their backyard! A Look at Gabrielle St. Claire’s Outdoor Playset Style For another example of how much fun the Riverscape Playhouse can provide, look no further than Gabrielle St. Claire’s backyard! Gabrielle chose this playhouse to create a cozy outdoor retreat that sparks creativity and active play. With charming details like a working doorbell, mail slot and play kitchen essentials, this setup is a beautiful reminder that the best childhood memories start right in the backyard. Backyard Fun with Ciera Hudson’s Playset Pick Ciera Hudson surprised her four kids with the ultimate backyard upgrade—the Adventure Bend Swing Set! From sliding and swinging to imaginative “cooking” fun, this beautiful setup turned their yard into a space full of laughter, play and unforgettable memories. Take a peek at the action-packed moments they shared! What Families Love About These Outdoor Playsets Across the board, families are falling in love with how KidKraft playsets turn everyday backyards into inviting spaces for imagination, connection and outdoor fun. From compact setups that make a big impact to full-featured swing sets designed for endless adventure, each set offers something special. Parents appreciate how these playsets encourage screen-free play and quality time together, while kids can’t get enough of the playful extras like garden boxes, mail slots, doggy doors and pretend kitchens. The result? A backyard filled with laughter, creativity and memories that last. Find the Perfect Playset for Your Backyard Ready to bring the fun home? With inspiring ideas from these fabulous influencers, creating a backyard your kids will love is easier than ever. KidKraft has something for every age, stage and space. Explore our collection of playhouses and swing sets to find the ideal fit for your backyard.
Father's Day Activities to Do with Kids in the Backyard
Father's Day Activities to Do with Kids in the Backyard Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy quality time with your kids. And you don’t have to go anywhere other than your backyard to have a great time! Whether you’ve got a few hours or the whole day to spend together, there are plenty of simple, fun Father’s Day activities that will turn your outdoor space into the ultimate hangout zone for you and your family. If you need some inspiration, look no further than our memory-making ideas below. Build and Play: Backyard Projects That Bring Everyone Together Get hands-on with a backyard project that doubles as Father’s Day family activities. These projects are sure to create lasting memories. Add a New Accessory to Your KidKraft Swing Set Freshen up your backyard fun by adding a new accessory to your swing set, and make it a team project! Let the kids help choose between options like a steering wheel, trapeze bar or belt swing, then guide them through the installation process. Use this time to provide a hands-on lesson in using tool safely, understanding how things work, and enjoying the satisfaction of building something together. Our Falcon Ridge Swing Set is a great option with plenty of add-on features to keep the fun going. Paint or Personalize Your Playhouse - A Father's Day Craft for Kids For a great Father’s Day activity for preschoolers, enjoy a backyard DIY adventure by helping your little one personalize their outdoor playhouse. Let them get creative with outdoor-safe paint, add a fun name sign, or even attach a pretend mailbox for extra charm. It’s a simple, hands-on way to spend quality time together, and it’s something they’ll be proud of. KidKraft’s outdoor wooden playhouses are the perfect canvas for your child’s imagination! Simple Backyard Games to Play on Father's Day Looking for easy, no-fuss Father’s Day ideas for kids and dads? These simple backyard games are fun for all ages and a wonderful way to get everyone laughing and moving. Create an Obstacle Course Using Your Swing Set Celebrate Father’s Day while burning off extra energy by using your swing set as part of a backyard obstacle course. Use built-in features like ladders, monkey bars and slides; then mix in fun extras such as having kids hop through a hula hoop, balance across a beam, or crawl under a rope. For a silly finale, challenge everyone to a “dad dance” at the finish line! Backyard Scavenger Hunt Around the Playhouse Turn your backyard into an adventure zone with a Father’s Day-themed scavenger hunt. Start by hiding clues in fun, unexpected places—tuck one inside the playhouse, slip another under the sandbox lid, or tape one behind the swing set ladder. Make it meaningful by including prompts like “Find something that reminds you of Dad” or “Look where Dad likes to grill.” This fun, low-prep activity is perfect for all ages and adds a playful, personalized twist to your Father’s Day celebration. Wind Down with Dad Time in the Backyard After a day full of play, slow down and soak up some quality time together. These simple unwinding activities give everyone a chance to relax and reconnect. Storytime in the Playhouse Create a cozy reading nook by bringing a blanket and a stack of favorite books into the playhouse. It’s a peaceful way to wind down with toddlers or preschoolers, especially those who love pretend play and storytelling. Whether Dad is reading aloud or just listening, storytime is a perfect way to end the day. Picnic or Lemonade Stand Pretend Play Set up a pretend picnic or lemonade stand in the playhouse and let the kids “serve” Dad tasty snacks or a refreshing drink. Use a KidKraft play kitchen and accessories like pretend food to create a fun, imaginative setting. Make memories, enjoy the outdoors, and transform your backyard into the ultimate play space this Father’s Day with a KidKraft swing set or playhouse for your family!
