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.

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

Sensory Activities for Spring: Fun, Hands-On Play Ideas for Kids

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.

Sensory Activities for Spring: Fun, Hands-On Play Ideas for Kids

Spring is here, bringing fresh opportunities for parents to make playtime more exciting. The warmer weather, blooming gardens, and longer days give kids a whole new world of textures, scents, and sights to explore. Sensory activities fit right into this season, and the best part? They're simpler than you think. Let’s dig into the fun. What Are Sensory Activities? Sensory play is any activity that engages your child's senses, including touch, sight, sound, smell, and movement. Think squishing mud, sorting colorful pebbles, or splashing in water. Sensory play has been shown to have many benefits. It helps develop neural pathways, refine motor skills, and build natural curiosity. In short, getting a little messy is actually really good for kids. Why Spring Is Perfect for Sensory Playtime Spring offers plenty of ready-made inspiration for sensory play—no craft store trip required. Step outside and you'll find: Nature-based textures. Explore bark, petals, soil, pinecones, and grass. Outdoor sand and water. Perfect for digging, pouring, and splashing. Seasonal colors and scents. Enjoy blooming flowers, earthy garden smells, and bright spring hues. Spring Sensory Bin Ideas Kids Will Love Sensory bins are low-effort, high-impact. Fill a shallow container and let the exploring begin. Here are four spring-ready themes: Garden-themed bin. Include soil, small shovels, and silk flowers for creative play. Flower scoop and sort. Use dried petals and colorful scoops for a fun sorting activity. Water-and-pebble bin. Place smooth river stones in shallow water with cups for pouring and sensory exploration. Easter egg texture hunt. Fill plastic eggs with materials like rice, buttons, and bells for a touch-and-guess game. Always supervise during sensory play, especially with small materials. For babies and toddlers who are still exploring with their mouths, choose larger, taste-safe items and avoid anything that could pose a choking risk. Create a Dedicated Sensory Play Space at Home Give children a defined space for sensory play to keep the mess contained and the creativity flowing. Here's what to consider setting up: An art table with storage for paints, paper, and craft supplies An easel that makes it easy for little artists to create masterpieces A sandbox in the backyard for open-ended digging and building Each of these provides kids with a reliable "go-to" spot for hands-on play, helping build focus and independence over time. Bring Spring Sensory Play to Life Sensory play doesn't need to be complicated—it just needs space to happen. Explore KidKraft's art tables, easels, and sandboxes to make sensory playtime engaging, organized, and easy all season long. FAQs What are the benefits of sensory play? Sensory play supports brain development, fine and gross motor skills, curiosity, and memory. What to put in a spring sensory bin? Try soil, dried petals, pebbles, water, Easter eggs, or dyed rice with spring-themed scoops and figurines. What age are sensory activities for? Most sensory activities suit children from toddler age onward. Just supervise little ones who still put items in their mouths and choose larger, non-toxic materials to reduce choking risks. How often should kids do sensory play? A few times a week is a great goal, but even short daily bursts of hands-on play make a difference. Are sensory activities good for toddlers? Yes! Toddlers benefit enormously from sensory exploration. Pouring, touching, and sorting all build coordination and cognitive connections at this stage.

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Active Play Ideas for Toddlers

If your toddler had their own anthem, it would probably be “I Like to Move It” on repeat. Even the chillest-of-the-chill toddlers still have a natural instinct to run, climb, jump, and move a ton throughout the day. While those wiggle-worm tendencies can be exhausting for us grownups, all that activity develops your toddler’s gross motor skills, improves their sleep, and helps regulate their mood. So don’t fight it – embrace it! These active play ideas can help your toddler get the movement their bodies crave in a way that’s safe, non-destructive, and fun for both of you! Outdoor Active Play Ideas Simply being in open outdoor spaces is a great way to encourage active play! If they need more inspiration, get moving with these easy active play ideas! Capture the Flag (The Toddler Version) A competitive team game of capture the flag is probably out of your toddler’s wheelhouse, but they’ll love a toddler-modified version! Use play silks or kitchen towels as your flags and tie them throughout your yard for your toddler to retrieve. Place them in places that encourage different types of movement (stretching, squatting, climbing, etc.). Then have them race to get them as fast as possible! Bubble Chase An easy but oh-so-fun classic! Blow bubbles. Chase. Pop. Repeat. Climbing Games Climbing engages all the major muscle groups, so it’s a great way to tire your toddler out and help them develop gross motor skills! Pretend to be mountain explorers on your little one’s playset, slide or toddler climber. Or play rescue by tossing a toy onto the playdeck of their playset, “rescuing” it by climbing up, sending it down the slide, and repeating! Indoor Active Play Ideas When the weather or your to-do list leave you stuck inside, these play ideas can still help your tots stay active! Bear Hunt Put a spin on the classic hide and seek by hiding a favorite teddy bear stuffie for each other to find! Make it extra fun by adding binoculars and flashlights and coming up with silly hiding places! Shopping List Have your little one take a shopping “trip,” filling up their favorite wagon with items from around the house. You can give them ideas for things to grab or even print out a visual list if you’re feeling extra motivated. To make it more engaging, end the trip by playing check out on the coffee table or at their Shop Doctor Pop-Up. Floor Tape Courses For a simple, mess-free version of an obstacle course, grab some painters tape and make various lines, paths, and shapes on the floor. You can come up with specific activities to do for each shape (jump in the triangles, spin around in the circles, hop between dotted lines, etc.) and then race through the course together! Hallway Bowling Empty water bottles or paper towel tubes make great bowling pins! Have your little one set them up, grab a ball, and bowl away! They’ll get plenty of movement throwing and going up and down the hall to reset the “pins.”Indoors or out, active play is great for your toddler’s mind and body – and your sanity! If it’s the summer heat that’s keeping you indoors, our 6 Indoor Summer Activities for Toddlers can help you pass the time too!

Space Saving Furniture Ideas for Kids

Kid-sized furniture is having a bit of a moment thanks to increasingly popular parenting/ educational philosophies like Montessori. The thought is that child-sized tools and furniture help foster independence and give kids ownership of their own spaces. You’ve probably seen a few pint-sized tables, desks, and wardrobes on your favorite parenting accounts! But if those kid-friendly spaces feel out-of-reach for you because square footage is low, don’t give up on the tiny furniture dream just yet! We’ve got some space-saving kids’ furniture ideas that can help! Floating Wall Desk Desks are one of the most popular types of kid-sized furniture for good reason. They perform a task that couches and dining room tables just can’t: giving your child their own space to work and focus! Unfortunately, they’re also a relatively large item that doesn’t work for every space. That’s where the Arches Floating Wall Desk can save they day! This innovative desk folds completely flat against the wall, leaving it completely out of the way when not in use. If you need ideas that work for small kids rooms, this desk is the perfect solution! Fold it away for play time, and set it back up when it’s time to craft or tackle homework! Expandable Table & Bench Set If you have more than one child in need of a homework space, the Arches Expandable Table & Bench Set has room for four to six kids, but takes up way less space than you’d think! The fold out benches easily flip over and out when kids need them and then neatly back under the table when they don’t. Included storage bins add even more space-saving power, making it easy to store craft or school supplies. Grow Together Adjustable Desk The streamlined profile of the Grow Together Adjustable Desk is a great space saver on its own – but the slim, minimalist design is far from the coolest benefit. This desk and chair set adjusts to grow with your child, so it can last from the preschool years all the way to the homework years! Book Nook & Tent If you love the idea of a play teepee or reading nook for your kiddo’s room but can’t spare the space, this cute little book nook just might do the trick. Built-in shelves mean you can ditch the book shelf to make room for this cozy reading-nook-and-play- tent in one! Bookcase with Reading Nook If the tent’s shelves won’t fit all of your child’s books but you still love the cozy vibes, this bookcase with reading nook can give you the best of both worlds: a great place to curl up with a book and plenty of storage. For more ideas for kids furniture for small spaces, check out our Toy Storage Ideas for Keeping Playtime Mess Free. Want to shop for kids’ furniture by age? Check out our collections for 3-to-5 year olds and 5-to-7 year olds now!

Guide to Starting Kindergarten

You blinked, and your baby is almost a kindergartener! But before you get all misty-eyed at drop off, you’ve got to make sure your little learner is set up for success! Our tips for starting kindergarten will help make sure your kiddo feels prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally, so when it’s finally drop off time, the only tears are yours. Find the Perfect Bedtime You likely already have a set bedtime routine, but you may want to move it earlier in the evening before the big first day! Five year olds need about 10-12 hours of sleep each night, and with early school mornings, they may need to be in bed as early as 6:30 to get the sleep they need! If you think they’ll benefit from hitting the hay a little earlier, start moving their bedtime up in 15-minute increments in the weeks before school until you’ve reached your target time. Master Your Mornings While you’re working on bedtime, it’s also a good idea to practice your morning flows as well! A week or two in advance, start waking them up at the same time they’ll wake up on school mornings. Go through the entire process of getting ready each day, and by the time the real first day rolls around, they won’t be groggy or stressed from rushing to get ready. Prepare Them for a Typical Kindergarten Day Of course, one of the best and easiest things you can do to prepare your child for kindergarten is simply talking about it. Let them know what they can expect and try to build excitement for meeting their teacher, making new friends, and learning new things! If your child has never been to preschool, they may truly not know what to expect, so offer plenty of details – story time, sitting at a desk, playgrounds, the cafeteria, etc.Kids who have already attended preschool will be familiar with most of the basics, but they might still be surprised by some things in kindergarten. Prep them for things like longer days, longer periods of focused instruction, and larger class sizes. Frame it positively – these changes mean they are a big kid, after all!And be sure to listen as well – if your child is expressing nervousness about kindergarten, you can help by dispelling any unnecessary fear and refocusing on the positives while still empathizing with their feelings. Read Books about Going to Kindergarten If talking isn’t enough to build excitement or calm fears, try reading some books about kindergarten as well. They’ll help normalize the school day and make it seem extra fun! Many books feature characters who are nervous about their first day, which may be helpful if your little one has been feeling apprehensive too. And there’s no need to go buy new books – just search “goes to school” or “goes to kindergarten” in your local library’s catalog, and you’re sure to get plenty of titles! Don’t Miss Meet the Teacher Even just a few minutes to see their classroom and meet their new teacher before the first day can help your kiddo feel more confident and prepared on their first day! Create a Kid Study Space Creating a kid-friendly study space isn’t just about homework – it’s about helping your child actually enjoy and feel ownership over studying and reading. So even though kindergarten homework assignments are usually quick and easy, take advantage of the chance to create positive study habits in a space your child enjoys! A study space should be tidy, distraction-free, and ergonomically correct for kids’ smaller bodies. That means a kids’ desk or a booster seat at a regular desk or table.We find that kid-sized furniture definitely adds to the cool factor and helps kids feel like the space is totally their own. Our tips for How to Create a Kid-Friendly Study Desk will encourage them to get involved in decorating and organizing their space. If you don’t have room for a desk, try our Ideas for Setting Up a Kids Reading Corner, or check out our new space-saving Arches Floating Wall Desk and Chair. No matter where they’re working, our 5 Tips to Keep Kids Organized and Focused can help keep the space organized and free from distractions. Make Extra Time for Play & Rest the First Weeks Even for kids who are used to preschool or daycare, the first week of kindergarten is exhausting! They’re meeting new people, learning new rules, and focusing for longer periods of time. Keep your evening and weekend plans to a minimum so your little one can catch up on the rest they need. And while it may seem counterintuitive, they may also crave more time to move around and get active. All that sitting and focusing is tough, especially for very active kids, so pencil in some time to let them get outdoors for child-led play. Check In & Observe With any big change, it’s always a good idea to ask your child how they’re doing and observe them for signs that something isn’t right. Kids who are having a hard time adjusting may act out more, get more reserved or sullen, or have emotional outbursts. While a small adjustment period is normal, if your child just isn’t themselves for more than a few weeks, check in with their teacher to see if they’ve noticed any problems in the classroom. And of course, talk to your child to get their take on how kindergarten is going! With any luck (and these tips!), starting kindergarten will be smooth sailing!

KidKraft Parent Series: Best Toddler Toys from A KidKraft Parents

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

How to Develop Motor Skills in Toddlers

The toddler years are a time of rapid growth in kids’ cognitive and physical abilities. Within a few years, those once-wobbly toddlers have the motor skills necessary to run, jump, get dressed, feed themselves, and more! There’s plenty of things you can do to support your toddler’s motor skill development, and fortunately they’re all as simple as playing and performing everyday tasks together! What are toddler fine motor skills? Fine motor skills refer to the development of strength and coordination in small muscle groups, usually in the hands and fingers. Kids work continually throughout their toddler years to develop the dexterity and strength they’ll need for everyday fine motor tasks like writing with a pencil, buttoning buttons, and opening jars.Fine motor development also happens in the muscles around the mouth and the tongue as kids learn to do things like drink from cups and straws and pronounce certain sounds. How to develop fine motor skills in toddlers Observe a toddler for a few hours, and you’ll notice that they’re driven to develop their fine motor skills all on their own! These little explorers have a natural desire to handle new objects, figure out how they work, and master tasks they see adults performing. Helping your toddler develop their fine motor skills can be as easy as providing a few simple toys and activities. Here are some activities you can offer immediately with materials you probably already have: wooden blocks and building with building bricks Clapping and performing motions to simple songsOpening an closing different types of containers with lidsPlaying with shape sortersColoring with pencils and crayonsDigging and building with play sand, writing on vertical surfaces like chalkboards, whiteboards, and easels (This helps kids develop shoulder stability and the correct pencil grasp).Using craft supplies like glue sticks and safety scissorsPracticing with forks, spoons, and open cups at meal timesPouring from small pitchersPlaying with play dough, especially with tools like rolling pins and cuttersPracticing everyday tasks like brushing teeth, combing hair, and getting dressed What are toddler gross motor skills? Gross motor skills refer to the development of strength and coordination in large muscle groups needed for balance, walking, running, climbing, lifting, jumping, etc. How to develop gross motor skills in toddlers Just as toddlers naturally gravitate toward fine motor activities, they definitely have a natural instinct to explore gross-motor-building activities as well! Just ask any parent who’s ever tried to stop a toddler from climbing the furniture or jumping on the bed! You can help support your toddler’s gross motor development by offering toys and activities that let them move and get active (and you just might save your couch cushions in the process!). Here are some ideas to help them burn some of that toddler energy and boost their gross motor skills: Take trips to parks and playgrounds Install outdoor toys like swing sets and climbers Ride balance bikes or training bikes Play catch with balls Play chase and other running activities Offer chances to lift, push, and move heavier objects (i.e. moving laundry baskets, arranging garden stones, or carrying buckets of water) Spend time outdoors where kids have room to run, jump, and play! Overall, there’s no need to stress about developing your toddler’s motor skills. Their own desire to play will help them develop both fine and gross motor skills all on their own! You can support them by providing simple toys and activities and limiting screen time, which can distract them from the motor-skill-building play they need. Still, if you’re worried that your child isn’t reaching their Developmental Milestones, always ask their pediatrician about your concerns!

7 DIY Sandbox Ideas for Creative Play

Sandboxes are a summer play staple. They let kids get imaginative and a little messy outdoors while providing numerous benefits in the process! Get the most out of your sandbox this summer with these easy backyard DIY sandbox ideas for creative play. 1. Fossil Dig First, have kids create their own “fossils” indoors. Use a few small, plastic animal toys to create imprints in modeling clay. Let the clay dry completely; then, bury their fossils in the sandbox. Provide your little paleontologists with some small shovels and sieves for their search. They’ll also love dusting off their finds with paintbrushes! 2. Sandbox Volcano Take the classic baking soda volcano outside for even more fun. Give the kids some water and have them construct a volcano shape in the sandbox (be sure to leave a hole on top and some space in the middle). Then, pour in the baking soda, followed by colored vinegar, to create a volcano explosion! 3. Ice Fun Ice cubes in the sand box—simple yet surprisingly entertaining! Kids will love seeing how the sand sticks to the ice and watching the ice slowly melt as they play! 4. Colorful Sand It’s easy to DIY your own colorful sand! You’ll just need some food dye, water and gallon zipper bags. Mix a few drops of food coloring with two cups of water in the bag. Add sand and shake! Once the sand has absorbed the colored water, you can let it dry in the sun or just add it back into the sandbox wet and start playing! 5. Sand Letters Finger drawing letters in a medium such as sand or shaving cream is a classic preschool activity. It’s much easier for toddlers and young preschoolers to start “writing” with their fingers since they still lack the fine motor skills to control a pencil well enough to write. By practicing writing in the sand, they can still build familiarity with the shape and significance of letters, giving them an edge when they’re ready to write for real. Simply provide some printouts of letters for them to trace or copy as they play in the sandbox. Older kids can practice spelling short words. 6. Construction Site Sandbox If your little one has some construction toys, put them to use scooping and pouring real sand. Let them find some pebbles, rocks, sticks and other “rubble” to remove from the construction site with their toys. 7. Sensory Sandbox Sandboxes are already a great form of sensory play, especially when you add extra tools that let kids dig, sieve, scoop, pour and build. Increase the fun by adding some of your go-to sensory bin fillers for the kids to search for in the sand. Just be sure to choose objects that won’t spoil or mold if they get left in the sandbox. Still looking for the perfect sandbox for your backyard? KidKraft’s wooden sandboxes are cute, sturdy and big enough for some major digging adventures! Once you have your sandbox, determine how much sand you need for your sandbox and the best way to keep your sandbox clean. DIY Sandbox FAQ Looking to take the DIY route and build a sandbox? The below FAQs will help you get started. How to build a sandbox? When making a DIY sandbox, choose a level spot, then use wooden boards (like 2’ x 6’ or 2’ x 8’ lumber) to frame it and secure the corners with screws or brackets. Line the bottom with landscape fabric for drainage, fill it with play sand, and consider adding a cover to keep debris and animals out. How do I find sandbox plans? You can find sandbox plans online by searching DIY websites, Pinterest, or home improvement stores. Look for free printable plans or video tutorials that match your space, budget and skill level.

The Benefits of Wooden Toys

Stroll through any toy aisle, and as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says, you’ll find yourself “inundated with all kinds of sensory-stimulating noise and light toys.” With all the flash of electronic toys, it’s easy to overlook the simpler choices. But classics like wooden toys boast clear benefits that continue to make them a great choice for kids and parents alike. Here are a few reasons we make wooden toys a priority here at KidKraft: They’re Not Overstimulating Toys with sound effects and flashing lights will definitely grab your toddlers’ attention – but maybe not in the best way. These types of toys are entertaining for a moment but can cause kids to passively observe what the toy does rather than actually engaging in play themselves. They can also overwhelm your child with too many sensory inputs, making them more irritable and less focused. The AAP put it best when they encouraged cargives to “choose toys that are not overstimulating and encourage children to use their imaginations.” They’re Open-ended & Multifunctional The simplicity of wooden toys is their strength. Kids have to engage and get creative when they play with them, whether that means building with wooden blocks or playing pretend with a wooden play kitchen or dollhouse. Unlike electronic toys, wooden toys don’t simply entertain. They promote child-directed play, allowing kids to play on their own terms and discover multiple uses for a single toy. These are exactly the type of “simple toy” the AAP says “may be best” for kids. They’re More Durable When it comes to durability, quality wooden toys have an edge over most of their plastic counterparts. They’re sturdier and more likely to survive through years of play with your kids. That means less money spent for you and fewer toys in the landfills. Our tips on cleaning your wooden toys can help them last even longer! They’re Aesthetic There’s no doubt that wooden toys tend to blend better with your home’s decor than bright plastics – especially when it comes to large toys like dollhouses, play kitchens, and outdoor playsets. While choosing toys shouldn’t be about what looks best on the ‘gram… it doesn’t hurt when a great open-ended toy also happens to look great. Speaking of the ‘gram… you can check out ours to see how parents incorporate KidKraft’s wooden toys into their home’s aesthetic!At KidKraft, we’re devoted to creating beautiful, durable toys that let kids play their way! That’s why wood is our material-of-choice for nearly all of our toys.

KidKraft Parent Series: Family Favorite Pretend Play Activities

Family Favorite Pretend Play Activities From preparing kids for real-life scenarios to boosting their emotional intelligence, pretend play is essential for every child’s development. That’s why “Made for Make Believe” is the motto behind everything we make at KidKraft– and why KidKraft toys will always be a huge part of playtime in our own homes! As part of our KidKraft Parent Series, we asked two KidKraft parents to share how they use KidKraft products to foster fun, brain-boosting pretend play for their kids. Here are some of their kiddos’ favorite toys and pretend play ideas! How does your family like to play together? TAYLOR: We love just being silly and creative together. We'll do crafts, play dolls or dress up or just make up really elaborate characters for each other and see how long we can keep the story going! LEAH: We love playing board games together. We started a collection when they were young and keep adding to it throughout the years. There's always something to play when we have those stormy Texas days or a Friday night in. And of course, imagination and pretend are a huge part of how we play together daily. What are your family's favorite KidKraft toys? TAYLOR: Our favorite KidKraft toys are dollhouses and play kitchens. Pretend play is what our daughter has always gravitated toward. Those toys do a really great job of giving kids enough of a framework to play while still leaving a ton of room for their individual imaginations to push the limits, so they’re a perfect fit for the way our daughter loves to play!LEAH: We love the Farm to Table Kitchen! It comes with so many accessories that aren’t included in most play kitchens. One of our favorites is the planter boxes with “choppable” veggies – they let the girls pretend like they’re really growing and cooking their own food! What are your kids’ favorite ways to pretend with KidKraft toys? TAYLOR: Our dollhouses are so fun because they can be so much more than a dollhouse, and we often pretend one is a hotel, a school, or even a vet's office for all her little doll pets. Kitchens are equally as fun because we'll make them a restaurant or burger shop and create wacky food combinations. LEAH: The girls love pretending they have a store/market setup with a-la-carte food items and drinks. Then they can wrap up their snack stop and move on to pretend shopping! How does KidKraft help your family with pretend play? TAYLOR: What I love most about our pretend play toys is really that balance between real life and imagination. We give kids a kitchen that looks realistic so they can mimic mom or dad, but we incorporate really fun features that we know kids love and features that we know are important for development. We give them a base, and their imaginations take it from there!LEAH: All of the KidKraft toys in our home bring so many opportunities for imaginary play. They have just the right balance of real life details and fun play features. This has helped our girls really engage with the toys but also understand and prepare for real-life situations by allowing them to imagine and explore creative responses. Need some more inspiration to keep the kids busy this summer? Try out one of our 12 Outdoor Pretend Play Ideas!