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

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.

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.

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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Modern Playhouse Decor Ideas

We firmly believe that a kid’s playhouse does not have to be an eyesore. Whether the playhouse is in your backyard or in your playroom, you should love looking at it as much as your kids love playing in it! To help you achieve that Insta-worthy modern playhouse we’ve gathered some of our favorite playhouse design ideas from parents like you! Plants & Wreaths Adding greenery is one of the simplest and most common interior design tips – and it works wonders for a playhouse too! Try arranging a few potted plants around the door or on the windowsill, hanging a wreath on the door, or adding flowers to the planter boxes beneath the windows. Whether they’re real or artificial, the plants will give the playhouse a bright, inviting vibe. For inspiration, see this greenery glow-up of our Forestview II Playhouse from @allisonmannella. Go Bold & Bright There’s no doubt that white and pastels are having a moment in modern design, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go for bright, bold colors with your playset. This blue and lime green paint job on our Modern Outdoor Playhouse still looks exceptionally modern thanks to the black trim and simple accessories like the mailbox, address sign, and door handle. Plus, what kid doesn’t love bright colors? Or Bright & White If bright, bold colors don’t exactly fit your decor tastes, opt for bright and white instead. A white paint job provides a clean, crisp background for your decor ideas, and it photographs beautifully! You can paint most wooden playhouses, or just opt for our Modern Outdoor Playhouse in white if you’d rather skip the painting altogether! Make the Door Your Own We get it – a full-out paint job is not everyone’s thing. But you can still make your playhouse look like a DIY masterpiece by adding a quick coat of paint to the door. The door itself is so small, we promise painting it will feel like a breeze. You can customize it even more by installing a new door handle, a knocker, or address numbers. We love this rosy pink door with a sleek gold handle on our Modern Outdoor Playhouse! Start with a Playhouse You Love Giving your little one’s playset a modern, trendy vibe is a lot easier if you start off with a playset that already has a modern design in mind. That means skipping loud plastic and opting for more natural materials that can be painted and customized. KidKraft’s outdoor wooden playsets are perfect both for ambitious DIYers and those who’d rather keep their decorating simple and quick. By starting with the sleek, clean lines and natural wood finishes of KidKraft playhouse, you already have a trendy, modern base for your decor ideas. Some of our top choices for parents looking for modern decor are the Modern Outdoor Playhouse (no surprise there!), the Scenic View Playhouse, and the new Hobby Workshop Wooden Playhouse. Be sure to browse all of our playhouses before you decide, and keep an eye on our Instagram for even more modern decor ideas from parents like you!

Plans to Build a Swing Set & 7 Playset Assembly Tips

Have plans to build a swing set? We know playset assembly can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. In addition to the instructions that come with your KidKraft playset, these assembly tips can help make the process quick and frustration-free. You’ll be a pro on how to build a swing set in no time! 1. Level the Ground First You can begin this step long before your playset is even delivered. In fact, we recommend getting it done in advance so that you can start building as soon as your playset arrives. To make sure you level a large enough area, look at the instructions for your playset online – simply find the product page for your playset model on our website and download the PDF. The instructions will include the exact measurements for the playset and the measurements for the recommended safety zone that should surround it. For tips on leveling the ground and a helpful how-to video, check out our full Guide to Installing a Backyard Playset! 2. Look at the Forecast Most of your assembly will happen outdoors, so try to schedule your assembly days when the weather is nice. If you’ve got a week full of rainy days, it’s best to just wait to get started. 3. Budget Enough Time Depending on the size of your playset and the specific playset build plans, assembling a KidKraft playset can take anywhere between 4 and 26 hours when you’ve got two people working. (You can find the estimate for your specific playset in the instructions.) So set aside a weekend or a few evenings to give yourself enough time to get the job done well! 4. Read All the Instructions You’re way less likely to make frustrating mistakes if you read all the assembly instructions before you get started. And don’t worry, it won’t take that long. Just reading through quickly will give you a good idea of what pieces will go where and the order in which you’ll complete each step. Remember, if you lose your paper copy, you can find full instructions for all our current products online. 5. Inventory and Organize We always recommend taking inventory of all your pieces and organizing them before you get started. Your instructions will have a detailed list of everything that’s included. Make sure you have everything you need before you start and organize them all into designated spots. Since you’re likely working outdoors, you may find it helpful to organize all your pieces on a porch, deck, or tarp to help ensure no hardware or small pieces get lost in the grass. Bowls and buckets can help with this, too.On the off chance that you are missing a piece or something is damaged, get in touch with us right away, and we’ll send you a replacement part ASAP. 6. Have the Right Tools & A Friend With your instructions read and your pieces organized, you’re ready to get started! Most KidKraft playsets require at least two people for the assembly process, so make sure you’ve got some help lined up before you start. A few extra hands won’t hurt either, especially if you have a larger playset. And if you don’t have your own power drill, borrow one from a friend or neighbor. 7. Consider What to Put Under the Playset For safety, you’ll want to place a soft, impact-absorbing surface under the playset, such as: Rubber mulch Wood chips Pea gravel Rubber mats Avoid hard surfaces like concrete or grass, as they don’t provide enough cushioning for falls. Reach Out Again, if you have any missing or damaged pieces, let us know ASAP so we can make it right! The easiest method is to fill out the form at parts.kidkraft.com. If you have any other questions, email us at customerservice@kidkraft.com or call us at 1-800-933-0771. We’re always here to help!Still shopping for your perfect outdoor playset? Check out our tips for How to Choose a Kids Swing Set!

Nerf Kids Toys

If you constantly find Nerf darts in the most random places in your house, we have some outdoor toys that just might help you reclaim your home… and amp up the Nerf competition even more! The Nerf Scout Defense Post, Nerf Geo Strike Headquarters, and Nerf Command Base Battle Fort let you turn your backyard into the ultimate Nerf battle zone. Here’s what you should know to pick the Nerf outpost that’s right for your yard and family!Nerf Scout Defense PostThe Nerf Scout Defense Post measures around 50" wide, 54", long, and 96" tall, making it a great choice for even small yards. The defense post features multiple places for kids to hide, shield themselves, and get a great vantage point to aim their Nerf blasters. They can bide their time inside the tee-pee like area or duck for cover and crawl to safety in the tunnel.Then they can climb the rock wall or rappelling wall to take the high ground on the upper deck where they can hide behind plastic defense shields. Multiple targets and storage spaces for blasters and darts complete the Nerf fun! Nerf Geo Strike HeadquartersWith a geodesic dome complete with a satellite dish and working periscope, the Nerf Geo Strike Headquarters has a spy-headquarters vibe that adds an instant cool factor to any yard. At 73” x 67” x 60,” it’s a great fit for most yards. Kids can aim from multiple windows or get super sneaky and plan an ambush from the tunnel. Spinning targets make practice challenging and fun, and with multiple places to store blasters and darts, they’ll never run out of ammo!Nerf Command Base Battle FortThe Nerf Command Base Battle Fort was Nominated as an Outdoor Toy of the Year for the 2022 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards, and it’s easy to see why. It combines the fun of an outdoor playset with the rush of an all-out Nerf battle! If the adults in your house love to get in on the Nerf wars too, the Command Base Battle Fort is the one for you! This set measures 175" x 66” x 98", so it’s big enough for the whole family to get in on the fun. Sharpen skills on the multiple targets and then get to the battle! Bridges, ladders, gangplanks, and rock walls offer multiple ways to climb to the second story where plastic defense shields offer a great tactical advantage. Take cover on the lower level and bust through the trap door for a surprise attack! When the Nerf battles are over, keep all your blasters and darts organized in the built-in storage spaces. Need a few more details before you make your final decision? Check the specs and reviews on all the KidKraft Nerf outdoor playsets here!

Best Types of Toddler Toys by Age

Shopping for adults is hard. Shopping for toddlers? That’s easy. They’ll be excited to open almost anything, and if you stick to classic toys that match their developmental stage, they’ll actually play with it – sometimes for years to come! To simplify your buying while still keeping your options open, our guide breaks down some of the best categories of toys for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and beyond! Toys for Infants (7-12 months) Bead Mazes Bead mazes are an ideal developmental toy for babies because they allow for fine motor practice with small objects without creating a choking hazard. Small pieces are big no-no for kids under three due to their tendency (aka compulsive need) to put everything in their mouth. The downside is those tiny objects are the perfect size for their little hands to explore and manipulate. Bead mazes solve that! Tiny pieces are fully attached to the toy but mobile enough that they can still practice spinning and sliding them around. Push Toys Most babes in this age range are just starting to find their sea legs – they’re pulling up, practicing standing on their own for a bit, and maybe even taking those first wobbly steps as early as nine or ten months. Pushcarts are a great way to support those developing skills. Look for ones that are sturdy enough that they won’t tip over when little ones use them to pull up but just light enough that they can start pushing them forward. Toys for 1 Year Olds Blocks Did you know a toddler’s ability to stack blocks is used as a milestone to track their development? Babies 14-20 months should be able to stack two blocks, and two-year-olds should be able to stack four. Why? It’s a strong indicator of how their fine motor skills are developing. Start playing together with blocks by at least one year old (or even sooner) to give them plenty of opportunities to practice. Shape Sorters Shape sorters provide another great way for toddlers to practice fine motor skills, but they also help them build shape recognition and problem-solving skills. Babies under 18 months will do best with simple shapes and just a few holes, and don’t be surprised if they need a tone of help choosing the right shape and fitting it into the hole. Once they start to master that, you can progress to larger shape sorters with tougher-to-recognize shapes, but again, they’re likely to need lots of help to master the new challenge! Toys for 2 Year Olds Climbers There’s no doubt that two-year-olds love to move, and they’re well-known for turning all of your furniture into their own personal playground. Giving them safe, appropriate ways to explore the urge to climb can help them meet that developmental need (and spare your couch cushions). Climbers are an affordable way to provide just that, letting them expend some of that energy, get some outdoor play, and develop gross motor skills in the process. Baby Dolls Hands down, our favorite thing about year two is watching their pretend play really take off! But unlike older kiddos who will start to invent their own characters and storylines, two-year-olds ’ pretend play is often based on what they see in real life. Dolls are ideal for just that, letting them act out roles and actions they see every day. While they may also show interest in smaller dolls and dollhouses at this age, larger dolls and doll furniture are a bit easier for them to handle and manipulate. Plus, they’re a great way to help prepare them for a younger sibling! Toys for 3 Year Olds Train Sets Train sets hit some of the types of play three-year-olds are working to develop: elaborate pretend play with storylines and constructive play (i.e. building and creating). Playing with trains is often a multi-step process that develops several different skills. Assembling the tracks is like a combination of puzzles and blocks; they’ll develop planning, problem-solving, and fine motor skills as they fit the pieces together and plan their track. Then, they can move into pretend play as they chug the train down the tracks and play with any included characters and prop pieces. Play Kitchens Toys like play kitchens are perfect both for letting three-year-olds mimic what you do in real life and eventually adding their own creative pretend scenarios. We like to go for smaller, toddler-sized play kitchens for this age. They can reach everything easily and are less likely to get overwhelmed by too many choices. Toys for 4 Year Olds Craft Tables Your kids have probably loved using colors and paints for years, but now, they’re really starting to get creative and meticulous with their arts and crafts. A space that allows them to easily access a variety of materials (think popsicle sticks, glue, craft pom poms, safety scissors, and various paints and colors) will let them move beyond adult-directed crafts and really start to explore their creativity. It’s best if all those materials can stay somewhat organized so they won’t get overwhelmed or frustrated as they search for what they need. Craft tables with built-in storage are a great solution. And since many children are starting preschool at this age, craft tables can give them practice sitting and staying focused and using the same materials they use in class. Playhouses Imaginative play is growing more complex for four-year-olds, and with a friend or sibling, they can get lost in their own pretend worlds for hours. Dress up clothes and large toys that foster role play are always going to be a hit. Playhouses are a great open-ended toy that lets four-year-olds immerse themselves in their own pretend world, whether that means performing daring firefighter rescues from a burning building, hosting a tea party in their castle, or running their own vet clinic. Toys for 5 Year Olds Outdoor Play Sets With most kids starting full-time kindergarten at this age, they’ll be itching to get some energy out after a long day in the classroom (and to hit the pillow a little early each night!) And since no one has time to hit the park after school and get dinner ready, adding a swingset to the backyard can make it way easier to let the kids get the movement and outdoor play they crave. Dollhouses & Play Sets Your child’s social circle grows dramatically once they start kindergarten, so expect plenty of playdates (and maybe even a sleepover or two in the next couple of years). Dollhouses are classic for fostering engaging social play – look for one that’s the right size for the dolls your child is into at the moment. At this age, that’s usually 12” dolls like Barbies and LOL Dolls or 18” dolls like American Girl or Our Generation. If your child loves the type of play you do with dollhouses but doesn’t love dolls, playsets like our Deluxe Fire Rescue Set or Pirate’s Cove Play Set are a great alternative and perfect for action figures!

7 Classic Kids Products that Promote Physical Activity

Making sure your kids hit that recommended 60 minutes of activity per day can be tough! Even with all that bouncing-off-the-walls energy, kids still need the right opportunities to move and play to get the activity they need. If you can make those opportunities fun for them and easy to maintain for you, your kids will stand a much better chance of avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. And you don’t need the newest toys to do it. In fact, simple, classic outdoor toys are often the best at inspiring kids to have fun and get moving! Swing Sets Backyard play structures like swing sets and playsets are kid favorites… and they’re one of the best ways to help your kids get and stay active outdoors! Look for one that offers multiple ways to get active by swinging, climbing, sliding, or hanging. Monkey bars and rock walls are great challenges for older kids! We make it easy to shop for durable wooden playset that fits your yard, kids, and budget. Bikes If you haven’t added a kid’s bike to your collection of outdoor toys yet, you’re missing a great chance to promote physical activity. If your kiddos can’t ride on their own yet, balance bikes, trikes, or training wheels might be more their speed. Sandboxes While you might think of sandboxes as more of a sit-and-play activity, your kids are doing a lot of upper body strengthening as they lift, pour, and carry buckets of sand and water! Sprinklers & Kiddie Pools Water play of any kind is an easy and (usually) inexpensive way to get kids moving. Sprinklers and kiddie pools are summertime classics that work for almost any age. Balls Yep, it can be that simple! Balls of any kind can inspire hours of kicking, throwing, and running – especially when you add some hoops, bats, or goals into the mix too. Balance Beams Walk, spin, jump, and repeat! There’s really no end to the ways kids can use a balance beam because once they’ve mastered one type of movement, they’re sure to move on to a new challenge. Toddlers will find it challenging just to maintain balance while walking, and older kids will love trying to master leaps and spins. Climbers Climbing offers a ton of benefits for kids’ physical and mental development, so offering safe opportunities to climb is a great way to support your kids’ health! If you don’t have a swing set with climbing features (or if you just want to offer more ways to climb), our A-Frame Hideaway and Climber, Shark Escape Climber, and Hop & Slide Frog Climber, are all budget-friendly ways to add kids’ play structures to your yard.Even with all the best outdoor toys, we know actually getting out the door to use them can still be a challenge. Our 5 Tips to Get Your Kids Outdoors can make it a little easier to ensure those outdoor play structures get plenty of use and – more importantly– that the kids get plenty of exercises!

How to Store Your Outdoor Kids Furniture

Proper storage is key to maintaining any outdoor furniture – and your little ones’ pint-sized outdoor kids’ furniture is no exception. A few basic storage tips are all you need to avoid a mildewy mess and keep your kids’ furniture in tip-top shape for years. Store Cushions Between Uses Cushions are usually the first part of outdoor furniture to show wear and tear. Moisture is the enemy here. Even though fabric on outdoor furniture is usually weather-resistant, it can still only take so many soaks in the rain before mold, mildew, and unpleasant smells set in. The best solution is to keep cushions stored out of the elements when not in use. A covered porch that doesn’t get rain, a shed, garage, or a deck box are all great options for storing your cushions. We think a deck box on your back patio is the perfect solution. The cushions will be completely protected from the elements in the waterproof box, and they won’t get dirty and dusty in the shed or garage. Best of all, your kids can access them completely on their own anytime they want to lounge on their outdoor furniture. Store for harsh winters If you live in an area with harsh winters, the kids probably aren't doing many backyard picnics or poolside lounge sessions in the winter months anyway. To protect the wood from the effects of freezing temps, go ahead and store them in the shed or garage until the weather warms up again. No room? Just cover them loosely but securely with a tarp to avoid a build-up of snow and ice. Not storing? Apply a water-repellent stain (as needed) Quality wooden outdoor furniture is pretty tough – with proper care, you may not need to store it at all. If you have temperate winters prefer to keep your kids’ furniture out year-round, applying a water-repellant stain every now and then will help it stay in its best condition. If your kids’ furniture is usually in an uncovered area, you may want to apply this stain every year just as you would for a wooden playset. If it stays under a covered area like your porch, you may only need to apply the stain every few years. Keep umbrellas from blowing away Patio umbrellas are perfect for creating your own shade on sunny days, but you’ll want to take special care to store them. Even the small versions in kid-sized picnic tables can still get damaged on a super windy day. To keep them from blowing away or breaking, keep them closed when not in use. If you’re expecting any strong winds, it’s best to store them in the house, shed, or garage. And if you want to keep the fabric looking new, go ahead and bring it indoors or under the porch any time it’s not in use. Want to shop for furniture and other outdoor toys by age? Explore our collections for 18 months-to-3 year olds, 3-to-8 year olds, and 8 year olds and up. That’s it! Thankfully our kids’ chaise lounges, Adirondack chairs, and table and chair sets are durable and low-maintenance, so storage is simple!

Backyard Camping Ideas with Toddlers

Family camping trips are super fun … they just take a ton of prep and planning, especially when you add a toddler to the mix. Camping out in the backyard? Way more doable, and it’s the perfect way to practice for the real thing. To make sure your tiniest camper is a happy camper, try out some of these backyard camping ideas and tips next time you want to attempt sleeping under the stars with your littles! Set up a tent If you plan to sleep outside, you’ll definitely need a real tent. But if you’re just going for an evening of backyard fun, a play tent or our A-Frame Hideaway and Climber will do the trick! (They’ll look super cute for those Insta pics too!) Make it cozy Whatever kind of tent you go with, you gotta cozy it up with some blankets, pillows, and a few favorite stuffed animals. If you’re actually sleeping outside, you’ll want to make it extra cushy with some sleep mats, air mattresses, and/ or sleeping bags. Use a camp stove If your backyard already has a firepit, great! If not, one night of backyard camping probably isn’t worth the trouble of building one. Instead, cook your dinner on a camping stove so you can get that real outdoor cooking experience. Get some pretend camping gear You can go pretty minimal on the real camping gear when you’re in your own backyard. But some pretend camping gear for the kids is sure to get plenty of use! KidKraft’s Let’s Pretend: Camping Cookout set has everything they’ll need to pretend to be an outdoorsy pro. They can get cooking over the wood fire or the cookstove complete with a full camping breakfast, cutting board and knife, and coffee percolator and mug. Or they can catch their own dinner with the wooden fishing pole, lake, and fish! When the camping fun is done, load it all up in the pretend ice chest for easy storage! Have plenty of flashlights Flashlights are fun and functional – and you can bet that each kid will want their own! Once it gets dark, play a game of flashlight tag and make shadow puppets on the sides of the tent! Sing some campfire songs Even if you don’t have a musician in the family who can play guitar around the campfire, you can all have fun with the kids’ instruments. Bust out those maracas and play guitars and come up with your own silly songs. Jazz up your s’mores Whether you’re cooking them over a fire, over a cookstove, or just in the microwave, s’mores are a must, right? These creative s’mores recipes are tasty twists on the classic graham cracker, marshmallow, and chocolate. Use a portable sound machine Actually getting your toddler to sleep in the tent might be a challenge, especially if they’re used to some white noise in their rooms. A battery-powered sound machine might drown out some of those outdoor noises and help your little one drift off to sleep in the new environment. Sleep in an indoor tent If you don’t plan to sleep outside, you can still make the camping fun last all night by bringing the tent indoors when it’s time for bed!Shop all of our camping toys and climbers on the KidKraft website to get them delivered in time for your next backyard camping adventure!

Back to School Furniture Guide

It’s all fun and games until that summer heat really kicks in. Then, the kids will definitely need some shady getaways and safe outdoor play areas if you want to keep playing and picnicking in the backyard all summer long. And if you can make those shady spots kid-sized and kid-approved? Even better. Our kids’ chaise lounges, outdoor table and chair sets, and outdoor playhouses are perfect for resting and recharging while catching a break from the sun. Here are some of our favorites this season! The Double Chaise Lounger If you need two equally shady, equally comfy spots for your kiddos, a Double Chaise Lounger has them covered (literally). Comfy cushions and thick shades make it perfect for a quick break from the heat. Find it in Espresso or Gray. Oh, and when they realize it has cup holders for their favorite summertime drinks? Keeping hydrated will be no problem during those fierce summer heatwaves. Outdoor Table with Benches and Umbrella Whether it’s a family BBQ, a backyard picnic, or a summer birthday party, summer means eating outdoors a lot. So whenever possible, try to make sure the kids have a little shade while they’re getting their grub on. Our Outdoor Table with Benches and Umbrella fits the bill, and even after mealtime is over, this kid-sized table will fit right into your kiddo’s worlds of pretend play. If you’ll need room for a few more, check out the longer benches on one of our other favorite kids’ table and chair sets! Outdoor Playhouses Okay, so outdoor playhouses aren’t exactly lounge sets, but they definitely provide a cool, shady spot for your kids to hide out from the sun as they play. Plus, when winter hits, they’re great for blocking those chilly winter gusts too. Any of our, wooden playhouses will offer some serious shade inside, but some of our bestsellers this summer are the Modern Outdoor Playhouse, the Savannah Swing Playhouse, and the A-Frame Hideaway and Climber. And because kids can’t hide out in those shady spots all day, be sure to check out our other tips for beating the heat this summer!