Made for Play

Explore child development through play, find inspiration for your next DIY project, and discover tips for selecting the perfect toys for your little ones.

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

Small Playroom Design Ideas to Encourage Imagination

Wooden vs Plastic Toys: What Parents Should Know

Best Swing Sets for Backyard Summer Play

Top Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Playroom

Screen-Free Summer Sleepover Ideas Kids Will Actually Love

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

Small Playroom Design Ideas to Encourage Imagination

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

Backyard Summer Activities for Kids

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

Wooden vs Plastic Toys: What Parents Should Know

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

Best Swing Sets for Backyard Summer Play

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

Top Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Playroom

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

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Best Gifts for Toddlers Who Love Animals

Have a tiny animal lover in your life? Boy, have we got some gift ideas for you! KidKraft animal toys are made with toddlers and preschoolers’ developmental needs in mind. These interactive animals toys are geared toward child-led play, so your little one can build, pretend, and role play at their own speed with their favorite animal pals! Safari 2-in-1 Ride & Play This transforming toy is another great way to bring the animals of the African savanna to your toddler’s play room! Kids can scoot around the house on the safari vehicle and then open it up to reveal full safari landscape and play set inside. This set comes with all their favorite African animals plus a safari guide and small safari truck for him to ride in! Farm Train Set Maybe it’s because of the “Old McDonald” song. Maybe it’s because we always ask them to make their best “moo” or “neigh” noises. Whatever it is, there’s no double that toddlers love farm animals! The farm train set give them two types of toys in one – a train set to build with and farm set to pretend with. A horse, chicken, cow, duck, pig, and farmers make up the cast of characters in this barnyard adventure waiting to happen! Sweet Meadow Horse Stable Shopping for a budding equestrian this year? They’ll gush over the Sweet Meadow Horse Stable. Designed for medium-sized horse toys (think the size a Barbie could ride), this stable setup lets your little one act out a real horse care routine, from feeding in the stalls, grazing in the paddock, or practicing show jumps over hurdles. Grand Horse Stable & Dollhouse with EZ Kraft Assembly™ Standing at almost five feet tall, the KidKraft Grand Horse Stable Dollhouse will have the “neigh”-bors galloping with envy. This 2-in-1 play pattern features a four-story mansion with expansive rooms, walk-through doors and see-through windows plus a connected two-story barn, complete with resident horse. A spinning weathervane tops the structure that includes a room for a live-in groomer or trainer to stay. Need gift ideas for other kids? Get super fun suggestions in our Shop by Age and Shop by Skill pages.

KidKraft Parent Holiday Picks

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

Benefits of Sensory Play

If you’re a toddler or preschool parent, you’ve probably seen the #sensoryplay tag on your feed at least a few times… usually accompanied by a bin of dyed rice and small toys. And while cute, themed sensory bins may be a fad, sensory play certainly isn’t! It’s a critical part of early childhood with huge development benefits, and it goes far beyond sensory bins. Here’s what you should know about sensory play and why it matters! What is Sensory Play? As you could probably guess, sensory play is play that engages the senses. Of course, that includes the big five – sight, touch, taste, sound, and smell – but it also includes our sense of balance and location (more on that later). Many sensory play activities focus on touch, encouraging kids to explore different materials and textures through good ol’ messy play (i.e. sensory bins, play foam, slime, etc.). But anything that engages the senses and your child’s attention and focus can count as sensory play. So when your toddler helps you cook and comments on the smells and sounds of food in the pan, they’re getting a great sensory play session too! Playing with scented bubbles in the bathtub, shaking maracas, and having fun taste testing new foods are all examples of sensory play too. Sensory Play for the Proprioceptive and Vestibular System Sensory play extends even beyond the five senses to our less commonly-known senses: proprioception and equilibrioception. Our proprioceptive system is responsible for our sense of place in a given space. It’s how we can feel where we are in relation to other things, even when our eyes are closed. Our vestibular system is responsible for our equilibrioception, or sense of balance. Activities that engage these systems like swinging, balancing, climbing, spinning, and walking backwards can all be considered sensory play as well! Why is Sensory Play Important? Supports Cognitive Development Sensory play actually helps develop the neural pathways (i.e. nerve connections) in babies and toddlers’ brains! The rich sensory inputs and problem-solving challenges that come with sensory play help support healthy cognitive development, laying the foundation for future learning. Our collection of cognitive play toys encourages this development. Refines Motor Skills Many sensory play opportunities also include fine or gross motor practice. Things like pouring items in a sensory bin or rolling out playdough build fine motor skills, while activities swinging and balancing refine their gross motor skills. Encourages Exploration and Curiosity By providing rich sensory experiences for your toddler, you help them discover the world around them. When they get a chance to explore new sensory experiences, their curiosity and natural drive to experiment and problem solve are sure to take over. Enhances Learning and Memory Kids, and adults for that matter, learn more effectively when multiple senses are engaged. This is why so many preschool and elementary teachers try to combine sensory play with learning activities. Activities like tracing letters in shaving cream or using hand motions and songs to learn new concepts are just a few examples of how sensory play can make academic learning easier and more fun for kids. Feeling inspired to incorporate more sensory play into your toddlers’ life? Check out our Sensory Play Ideas for Toddlers to get started!

Sensory Play Activities for Toddlers

No time to dye rice and make fancy sensory bins? No problem. While Instaworthy sensory bins with elaborate themes might be all the rage on social media, there are so many other ways to provide your toddler with sensory play opportunities. In fact, our favorite sensory play ideas require very little prep! Here are some simple, fun sensory activities for toddlers that come together in five minutes or less! Food! If your eighteen-month-old seems more interested in smushing sweet potatoes than eating them, don’t worry. That time in the high chair actually counts as sensory play! For one thing, meal times let your toddler safely explore new tastes, something that’s tough to do with most play materials. But it’s more than just taste! The smell, temperature, texture, and even sounds of all their favorite (and not-so-favorite) foods provide rich sensory experiences that help their growing brains…even if nothing actually ends up in their stomachs. Play Dough Play dough is a great way to combine sensory play with constructive and creative play, allowing your toddler to squish, feel, and mush as they create and build. Crafts Between squishy fingerpaint, sticky glue, fuzzy pipe cleaners, and more, craft materials provide a wide variety of sensory experiences – not to mention plenty of fine motor practice too! Keep a variety of materials on hand and create a mess-friendly craft space. Easels or dedicated craft tables can help keep the mess contained while still giving them a space to explore! Sound Shakers & Musical Instruments Old spice jars and other small containers make great shakers for little hands! Add different materials like dried rice, beans, marbles, or craft supplies so your toddler can explore the different sounds each object makes. To avoid messes and choking hazards, be sure the lids are on securely and hot glue them closed if necessary!When your toddler gets bored with homemade sound shakers, you can graduate to musical instrument toys for more advanced sound play! Chickpea Playfoam Did you know that the liquid from a can of chickpeas can be whipped into a foam that’s perfect for sensory play? Next time you crack open a can, save the liquid, add food coloring if desired, and let your toddler help you whip it with your electric mixer. In a few minutes, you’ll have a taste-safe foam for squishing, splashing, and playing. Sandboxes We like to think of sandboxes as the original sensory bin! And unlike a plastic bin of colored rice in your kitchen, they keep the mess outside! They’re also more versatile as your toddler can dig, bury, and build with sand in ways they can’t with an indoor sensory bin. Consider adding a sandbox and a few gardening tools to your backyard play setup, so that you have a zero-prep sensory bin ready to go at all times! Ice Play Set out a few bowls with water of varying temperatures (none too hot, of course!), a bowl of ice cubes, and a few kitchen tools like spoons, measuring cups, and tongs. The slippery ice and stark differences in temperature provide tons of fun sensory input. Plus, your toddler will love transferring ice with the different tools, and you’ll love the fine motor practice they get along the way! For a simpler version, simply provide a bowl of ice at their next bath! They can play with a few at a time so the cubes don’t all melt at once. Balance, Climbing, & Swinging While we usually think of sight, taste, touch, sound, and smell when we think of sensory play, play that develops your child’s vestibular system actually counts as sensory play as well! The vestibular system is responsible for our sense of our bodies in space. It’s how we keep our balance and sense where we are even when our eyes are closed. Balance beams, swings, and climbing materials are all great for vestibular development! For equipment-free activities, play games where you and your toddler spin around, balance on one foot, or find an object while blind-folded.Looking for simple toys to support sensory play and other types of developmental play? Check out our new Shop-by-Skill section where you can filter for toys by active play, cognitive play, imaginative and creative play, and social play!

How to Support STEM Through Play

Setting our kids up to love learning starts with play – and the STEM subjects are no exception! Even in the toddler years, play helps lay the foundation for early STEM skills and sparks interest in STEM subjects. What Is STEM? STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM in early education often focuses on laying strong foundations in math and science. That part feels pretty self-explanatory to most of us since science and math are basic elementary school subjects that we took as kids too. But the “technology and engineering” part gets a little more confusing to many of us. Those subjects can feel very advanced and foreign to us, leaving us wondering if our preschool kids need to be working with robot kits or building model bridges to get a full STEM education.In reality, toddler and preschoolers get the technology/ engineering component of STEM anytime they’re flexing their creativity and problem-solving muscles. So while those advanced building kits are great for older kids, for toddlers and preschoolers technology/ engineering activities look more like building with bricks or constructing toy train tracks. Toddler STEM Activities and Toys From messy science experiments to block tower masterpieces, these activities support STEM skills, but to your kiddos, they just feel like play! Ramps Playing with ramps is a great way to introduce early physics concepts and experimentation to your kiddos. This can be as simple as propping a cardboard box up against your couch. Roll different balls and other objects down it and encourage your toddler to experiment. Race objects to see which are the fastest, which go the farthest, and what happens when you adjust the incline of the ramp! Magic Milk Magic milk is a classic toddler science activity. They love the swirling colors, and you can introduce some early science concepts as you explain how the soap and fat molecules interact! All you need is need whole milk, dish soap, and some food coloring. Get the details on the science here! Nature Play Getting kids in the great outdoors is a great way to spark an interest in science. You can start conversations and get first-hand experience on so many science-related subjects like the weather, ecosystems, animals, plants, seasons, and more! Get outside, observe what your child is interested in, and explore it together! You can enhance their learning with simple activities like these: Leaf rubbings - Help your child notice the vascular system of leafs and explain what leafs do for plants! Bird/ animal watching - Learn about the different species in your areas and observe and explain behaviors like foraging, nest building, defending territory, etc. Nature scavenger hunts - Help them slow down and notice the little things as you search for items around the park like pine cones, an ant hill, clovers, flowers, etc. This is great for introducing a ton of science-related vocabulary! Fizzy Paint Fizzy paint combines art, sensory play, and science into one fun, kid-approved activity! It lasts a bit longer than your typical baking-soda-and-vinegar activity since the kids interact with the materials more. And as they paint, they’ll also be learning about chemical reactions! Counting Frames Counting frames, also called five frames or ten frames, are a great way to help toddlers understand the concept of numbers rather than just memorizing the order of numbers. Simply make a grid of five to ten squares with painters tape on the floor and gather up a few items to count! Check out the Busy Toddler for ideas to make your counting frames fun! Building Toys Building toys like blocks, train sets, and magnetic tiles are great for fine motor skills, problem solving, and creative thinking! They’re the perfect toddler toy for the “engineering” side of stem! If your toddler is getting bored with plain wooden blocks, they might be ready for more interactive or challenges building materials. Our wooden train sets and building brick activity tables can help make building one of your toddler’s favorite ways to play, making it easy for you to incorporate STEM into their daily lives!

Imaginative Play Benefits

At KidKraft, “Made for Make Believe” is our motto, so needless to say, imaginative play is near and dear to our hearts. We love it for so many reasons – the magic of seeing kids pretend, the silly ideas kids come up with, the memories of playing as a family. But we also love it for the developmental benefits. Here’s how imaginative play helps your child grow and thrive! What are the benefits of imaginative play? Creativity & Confidence Play pretend with a three-year-old, and you’ll be sure to act out some truly silly situations. Pretend play lets kids build whole worlds and make the “rules.” Since so much of their life is directed by adults, pretend play is one of the few times they get to be in control. Whether they’re saving the day, starting a restaurant, or flying a spaceship, they relish the chance to call the shots and give you directions. Feel free to make suggestions, but ultimately follow their lead and encourage them to be as creative as they want! Social Skills & Empathy When kids engage in imaginative play with peers, they practice a lot of social maneuvering. They must communicate with each other as they establish how the pretend situation works, and they have to navigate real-life social dilemmas when they disagree.Even when kids play pretend alone, they get a chance to put themselves into someone else’s shoes, something that doesn’t come naturally to a toddler. Imagining someone else’s perspective helps them build empathy and understanding. Practical Life Skills Pretend play helps kids learn how to interact in the real world. They can practice social interactions like ordering at a restaurant as well as basic tasks like caring for a pet or cooking. Pretend play is especially great at helping kids practice things they might not get the chance to do in real life just yet. When they are old enough to go school or order their own food, all of the pretend practice they had will help them navigate those situations with confidence. Language & Vocabulary Imaginative play comes with tons of opportunities to learn new words and expand language skills, especially when an adult is involved. Don’t hold back from using rich, specific language when you play with your kids. You might be surprised by how much they can pick up! For example, if you’re playing the part of veterinarian to your child’s teddy bear, don’t limit yourself to “boo boos” and “upset tummies.” Your child will learn more when you include terms like fractures, infections, sprains, and x-rays. You grow their vocabulary as well as their fascination with a subject when you use detailed language. Types of Imaginative Play Imaginative play can take several forms, including independent play, social play with peers, or social play with adults. Each has its own benefits. Independent play lets kids explore on their own terms and develop focus as they engage with what interests them most. Playing with peers builds social skills. Playing with adults can boost language and vocabulary development and provides opportunities for the adults to teach kids about the world through play. Imaginative play can also take the form of dramatic play, where kids act out roles themselves, or play with toys, where kids speak for toys but don’t embody a role themselves. It can center around fantasy or real-world scenarios. Both are beneficial, allowing kids to explore their creativity and learn practical skills that will serve them in real life. Shop Our Imaginative Play Toys Of course, nothing is as important for imaginative play as your child’s own imagination! That being said, toys that promote pretend play can really help them engage in and enjoy imaginative play on a daily basis. For developmentally-friendly toys your kids will love playing with, check out KidKraft’s wide range of play kitchens, dollhouses, and other imaginative play toys. Just like your child, they’re made for make believe!

What Is Cognitive Play?

Parenting a preschooler can feel like a crash course in childhood development…(in a good way!) You might vaguely remember learning about cognitive development and play in that Psych 101 class you took in college, but now you’re seeing it in action! Your kiddo has grown from a cooing baby to a talking toddler figuring out the world. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to help support that rapid cognitive development, the answer is simply to help them engage in meaningful play! What Is Cognitive Development? Before we dive into the types of play that support cognitive development, it’s helpful to have a basic definition of cognitive development. In the simplest terms, cognitive development is the growth of kids’ ability to think. This encompasses their problem solving skills, their ability to use reason and logic, their ability to engage in abstract thinking. What Is Cognitive Play? The Role of Play in Cognitive Development Almost any type of child-led play can help kids’ cognitive development in some way, but when you see the term “cognitive play'', it’s likely referring to types of play that are particularly good at building kids’ problem-solving and thinking skills. Some classic examples include puzzles, building with blocks or other construction toys, and memory games.Problem-solving play can also include anything that is challenging for your toddler like dressing and undressing their dolls or figuring out how to fit all of their toys into their wagon. These activities help toddlers learn to analyze challenges and persist through trial and error. (For more ideas, see our 7 Problem-Solving Activities for Toddlers!)Language is another critical part of kids’ cognitive development. After all, we think through words, especially when we’re trying to think about more abstract concepts. A rich understanding of their language equips kids to tackle these challenges later in life! Playing, speaking, and reading with adults helps kids grow their vocabularies and intuitively understand sentence structure. It’s also important to remember that kids play in ways that may not seem like play to us, and these activities are also beneficial for cognitive development. Just as young babies can’t help but practice standing and crawling, toddler and preschoolers can’t help but practice their growing cognitive skills. When they suddenly fixate on sorting their toys by color or lining up all of their animal figurines from biggest to smallest, they’re building pre-math skills. When they’re determined to impossibly fit all of their books into their backpack, they’re building spatial reasoning. And when they simply stare at the pictures in their books, they’re often trying to retell the story to themselves, building their memory, focus, and future reading comprehension skills.In short, anytime toddlers and preschoolers truly focus on any task, it likely feels like play to them, and there is probably some form of cognitive benefit! Want more details? Check out our post on How Play Supports Cognitive Development to get brain-boosting play ideas and learn the different cognitive skills kids develop through play! Lastly, explore our entire collection of cognitive play toys perfect for cognitive development.

How to Motivate Social Play in Toddlers

We all want our toddlers to grow up with great friends! So much so that we may be tempted to obsess over childhood social milestones and panic if our toddlers seem uninterested in social play. But you might be surprised to learn that social play in toddlers can look totally different than we expect! In this post, we’re diving into what social play is, the different types of social play, and how you can encourage social play in your toddlers! What Is Social Play? No surprises here. Social play is exactly what it sounds like – playing with others. Usually, when professionals use the term, they’re referring to social play with peers, i.e. kids playing with other kids. But social play can also encompass kids playing with parents or other adults. The earliest forms of social play begin in infancy as parents speak to their babies, make them laugh, and play simple games like peek-a-boo. Social play with peers starts later and usually develops in the following stages: Types of Social Play Sociologist Mildred Parten theorized that kids go through several stages of play before they are ready to engage in what we typically think of as social play. Onlooker play is most common around ages 2 and 3 and occurs when kids simply observe other kids playing but don’t join in. Though it may seem like they’re not doing much, they’re actually soaking in a ton of information on social norms and how older kids play together.Parallel play is also common around ages 2 and 3. In this case kids are playing near each other, often doing similar activities, but aren’t really playing with each other yet. Associative play is similar to parallel play but with a little more social interaction as kids may talk to each other and influence each other’s activities (like making suggestions for their block tower or trying to copy a friend’s drawing). This type of play is most common between ages 3 and 4.Cooperative play is what we’re likely thinking of when we picture traditional “social play.” Kids are truly playing with each other, not just near each other, and are interacting and communicating. This type of play can begin around age 3 and emerges as kids’ favorite way to interact with their peers around age 4 to 5A major takeaway for parents is to recognize that young toddlers’ social play may not look exactly how we expect. If your 18-month-old seems to ignore her playdate buddies or your 2-year-old stares at kids on the playground instead of playing, know that these are actually early stages of social play! Learn more about these and other stages of play in our post, Stages of Play: How Kids Should Play by Age. Play with Adults In addition to these stages of play with peers, there’s another type of social play that can’t be ignored: playing with adults! Toddlers’ interactions with their parents and other caregivers are just as – if not more – critical for their social development as peer interactions. When you play with your toddler and give them your focus, you instill a sense of self worth, develop their language skills, and model how they should interact socially. Why Is Social Play Important? We’ve hinted at it already, but social play is so critical because it’s the primary way kids develop social skills that will help them be successful later in life. Through social play kids develop emotional intelligence and empathy, learn to pick up on social cues, and learn to communicate ideas and feelings. How to Motivate Social Play If you’re here, we’re guessing it’s because you want to teach your toddler how to play with others. That’s definitely a worthwhile goal! Just remember that social play comes with time. Young toddlers will engage more in onlooker and parallel play, and that’s okay! When kids do begin to attempt cooperative play with their peers, expect some tantrums and tears as they do the tough work of learning to share and communicate. Shy children or very strong-willed children may have a tougher time engaging at first, but with practice and some gentle coaching from you, they’ll get there!All that being said, these are a few simple ways you can help motivate your child to engage in social play:Play with Them! Playing with your toddler is one of the most critical things you can do to get them ready for social play. Playing and reading together gives kids the confidence and language skills they need to interact with their peers. They’ll also learn appropriate social behavior as you gently correct and redirect inappropriate behaviors. Hit the Park Parks are a great place to begin meeting peers and practicing social interactions. Young or shy toddlers can learn from onlooker play as they watch the other kids. For kids who are interested in more cooperative play, parks are a great way to practice introductions and initiating play with new friends. Host a Playdate (and Join In) Many kids feel most comfortable on their own turf and might be more likely to engage in social play at home. For some kids, simply being around other kids is enough to kick off social play. For others, a parent’s presence can help them feel more confident. If your child needs it, you and the other parents can join in on the play until your child feels ready to play with their friends on their own. Try a Mix of Familiar & New Activities Just as some kids feel more confident playing in their own home, some will feel confident exploring social play through familiar activities they already do at home. On the other hand, the novelty of new, exciting activities and toys can also encourage reluctant kids to join in on the fun! Organized sports, library craft times, a visit to a friends’ house, or new developmental toys can all be new exposures that get them excited for social play. For more ways to help your toddler’s budding social skills, check out our 7 Sharing Activities for Toddlers and tips to Grow Your Toddler’s Emotional Intelligence. Or, explore our entire collection of social play toys!