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.

How to Organize Toys in 3 Steps

Tired of stepping on that rogue toy car or searching high and low for a doll's missing shoe? As sweet as it is to see your children play, the aftermath can sometimes look like a mini tornado hit your living room. The good news? You don’t have to choose between creativity and a clean floor. Organizing toys can actually be enjoyable (really!), and it doesn’t mean locking everything away in a closet.  With the right strategies, you can turn cleanup time into a game, make play easier, and even teach your kids a little responsibility along the way. Ready to reclaim your space without interrupting their imagination or slowing down the fun? Let’s get started! Getting Started: The Basics of Toy Organization Before you buy new bins or start rearranging furniture, take a moment to notice how your child actually plays. Paying attention to their habits helps you figure out what should stay within easy reach and what can be stored higher up or put away. Effective organization relies on a few core principles: Accessibility: Keep your child’s favorite toys and activities within reach so they can play independently. Visibility: Clear bins or open shelves help kids see what they have. Simplicity: A simple organization system is easier to maintain than a complicated one.  Step-by-Step: How to Organize Children’s Toys Like a Pro Creating a sustainable organization system takes a little time upfront, but the payoff is a playroom that cleans up quickly.  Involve your child in the process to make it more enjoyable and teach them valuable skills. When kids help set up the system, they’re more likely to understand where things belong and take ownership of keeping the space tidy. It also fosters independence and helps them practice making decisions. Follow these steps together to organize and optimize your space. Step 1: Sort and Declutter  The first step to organization is to sort and declutter. It is impossible to organize efficiently if you have broken items or toys your child has outgrown mixed in with their current go-tos. Start by gathering everything in one room and sorting through the pile. Create three distinct piles to streamline the process: Keep: The toys your child plays with regularly. Donate or sell: Gently used items that someone else can enjoy. Toss or recycle: Broken items or puzzles, toys, and games with missing pieces. Step 2: Group Toys by Type or Activity Once you have pared down the collection, categorize the remaining items. Involve your child by asking for their input—what toys they like to play with together, which items feel similar, or what should share a bin. For example, you may want to group items by how they are used:  Building: Blocks, magnetic tiles, and construction sets. Pretend play: Costumes, play food, cars, and dolls. Creative: Art supplies, coloring books, and play-dough. Step 3: Label and Store Strategically Grab your labeler or some stick-on labels and create a simple label for each bin or shelf.  Labels make cleanup feel more like following a map than a chore. And for little ones who aren’t reading yet, picture labels make it easy to match items to their spots. Once everything is labeled, use these storage strategies: Put heavier items and everyday toy and activity favorites on lower shelves. Reserve higher shelves for items that require supervision, like messy art supplies. Utilize open bins for bulky items that are hard to stack. How to Organize Plush Toys and Other Soft Items Stuffed animals can quickly take over a bed or corner if left unchecked. Since they are soft and lightweight, you have more flexible storage options than with rigid toys. Here are a few ways to corral the plush collection: Baskets: Large, soft baskets on the floor make it easy to toss animals in. Hammocks: Take advantage of corner space by hanging a net or hammock for display. Toy boxes: Classic toy boxes and benches hide the clutter while keeping plush friends accessible. Best Ways to Store Toys in Small Spaces If you are working with limited square footage, vertical space is your best friend. Also, consider dual-purpose furniture or storage that fits into unused nooks. Maximize your area with these organization ideas: Vertical shelving: Tall bookcases and shelves draw the eye up and can offer more storage than low, wide units. Just be sure to anchor them securely to the wall to keep them safe for little climbers. Under-bed storage: Roll-out bins utilize the dead space beneath beds. Multi-functional furniture: Save floor space by using tables with built-in drawers or benches with storage compartments. Storage Solutions Simplify Play and Cleanup Time Ultimately, the goal is to create a space made for play where cleanup is just a quick reset for the next adventure. Putting these affordable playroom organization ideas into practice gives every toy a home, and creates a system that can grow and adapt as your child moves from blocks to board games to brand-new picks. Shop KidKraft's storage collection today to make cleanup time simple and fun.

Top 5 Indoor Activities for Kids at Home

When the weather outside is chilly, soggy, or downright moody, it’s your cue to bring the good times indoors. Inside play keeps kids active and their imaginations buzzing. Snowy day? Rainy day? Here’s a handful of fun ideas that can flip “I’m bored” into “let’s do that again.” Fun and Easy Indoor Activities for Kids of All Ages Keeping kids entertained indoors doesn't have to be complicated. With a little creativity, you can turn your living space into a hub of activity and discovery. Here are five simple ideas to get you started. 1. Host a Play Kitchen Bake-Off Challenge  Make your child’s play kitchen the center for a pint-sized cooking competition. Choose a theme, such as “Cupcake Creations” or “Crazy Pizza Toppings,” and let the little ones use toy food or craft supplies to whip up their culinary masterpieces. You can even add real prebaked cookies or cupcakes for decorating. Just be sure to supervise as they spread frosting or add sprinkles.  Evaluate and score the “dishes” based on creativity, presentation, and teamwork. Finish with real snacks as a tasty reward. 2. Stage a Puppet or Doll Performance It’s showtime! Create a mini stage out of a cardboard box or by draping a tablecloth over an activity table. Kids can step into the role of aspiring directors as they cast puppets, dolls, and stuffed animals in the starring roles and bring their stories to life. They can develop scenes, try out voices, and put on a full performance. 3. Play Dollhouse Detective Who doesn’t love a little mystery? Hide a few tiny objects in your child’s dollhouse and set up a seek-and-find game inspired by favorites like I Spy. Your tiny sleuths can search, decode clues, and cheer successful discoveries, all while building problem-solving and attention skills. 4. Dig Into Indoor Gardening Cultivate their curiosity about science. Give kids a small planter, cup, or jar to plant their seeds. They can water them regularly and watch the slow, steady changes over time. Your young gardeners can check for sprouts, make observations, and celebrate each new leaf. It’s a rewarding way to build patience, responsibility, and early science skills. Plus, it gives them something to look forward to long after the day is over. 5. Pump up the Playroom Jam Strike up some indoor fun with a little music-and-movement corner. It doesn’t take much to get things rolling. Pull out noisemakers, bells, rattles, play instruments, or even a pot and a wooden spoon. Toss in a few scarves for swirling, and suddenly your living room will feel like the hottest club in town. Put on a favorite song (or let the kids be the band), and you’ve got a full-on family jam session.  Tips for Making Indoor Play More Engaging Every Day You don’t need new toys to keep indoor playtime interesting. Just think of fresh ways to use the ones you already have. Here are some tips for making indoor play more engaging: Rotate toys regularly. Bringing out different items each week makes familiar toys feel new again. Create simple “stations.” Set up a small art corner with an easel. Add a building zone with blocks or toy bricks. Then, create a pretend-play area with a play kitchen, dollhouse, or themed play set, allowing children to transition easily between activities. Join in on the fun. Playing together strengthens your connection and provides guidance kids can use when they play on their own. Mix and match toys. Consider how toys can be used together in unexpected ways. For example, blocks can become car garages, train set scenery, or castles for dolls. Encouraging Creativity and Connection Through Indoor Play Indoor play is an opportunity to create lasting memories and foster family bonds. These shared moments of imagination and laughter transform an ordinary afternoon into something meaningful. With thoughtful activities and encouragement, you’re helping your child learn and grow while making the most of your time together.  

Screen-Free Activities for Kids

We all know the struggle of peeling little eyes away from tablets and televisions. Everyone likes a cartoon or movie, now and then. But while tech has its place, swapping pixels for paintbrushes, playsets, and puzzles opens up a world of wonder right in your living room or backyard. Ready to trade digital time for creative time? Here are a few simple ways to get your kids excited about playing without screens. The Benefits of Screen-Free Play Why unplug for play? Stepping away from devices helps boost brainpower and build essential life skills. When children engage with physical toys, they develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.  Hands-on activities support other areas of early development, too. Bricks and playsets, for instance, encourage cognitive play by helping young minds recognize patterns and explore cause-and-effect relationships naturally. Easy and Fun Screen-Free Activities for Kids When considering which activities to choose, look for ones that are relatively simple to implement and impossible for children to resist. Here are a few ways to get everyone busy. Screen-Free Activities for Toddlers Toddlers thrive on exploration and sensory experiences. Try these easy, low-prep ideas: Create an art station. Set up an art station with an easel and encourage creative play. Whether your little artist uses chalk, markers, crayons, or finger paints, they can express themselves freely while honing fine motor skills. It’s messy, marvelous, and completely captivating for curious tots. Put together a sensory bin. Fill a shallow bin with rice, scoops, cups, or a few small toys. Pouring and digging lets toddlers explore new textures in a calming, playful way. Offer chunky blocks or bricks. Building towers (and knocking them down) helps toddlers practice early problem-solving and coordination. Screen-Free Family Activities to Do Together Play becomes even more magical when everyone joins in. Transform your living room into a bustling restaurant or a castle that invites imaginative pretend play. Creating stories and scenarios together strengthens bonds and builds vocabulary. If the weather is cooperating, move the offline fun outdoors. A backyard swing set or climber enhances physical development and offers the ultimate outlet for active play. Racing down slides or soaring on swings in the fresh air burns energy and creates those giggly, breathless moments that childhood memories are made of. How To Make Screen-Free Time a Daily Habit For a natural transition to increased screen-free time, try these strategies: Designate specific "unplugged zones" or times of day where devices disappear. Schedule regular game nights or playdates that focus on social group play. When kids interact with peers or parents without digital distractions, they learn negotiation, empathy, and sharing much faster. Encouraging a Lifelong Love of Screen-Free Play The goal isn't to banish screens, but to make the real world more enticing than the virtual one. By providing engaging environments, like a well-stocked playroom or an adventure-ready backyard, you show your children that the best stories aren't just watched; they are lived. Keep it fun, keep it fresh, and watch their imaginations blossom.

Christmas Playhouse Makeovers: How Real Families Transformed Their Playhouses for the Holidays

The holiday season is made for memory-making and a little “deck the halls” magic of your own. Transforming your child’s playhouse into a winter wonderland brings the joy of the season right to your backyard. With twinkling lights, mini wreaths, and a sprinkle of creativity, it becomes their very own North Pole hideaway. Whether your child is pretending to run Santa’s workshop or relaxing in a winter cabin, a Christmas playhouse makeover turns everyday play into something truly merry and bright. Let’s look at some fun, festive decorating ideas and showcase a couple of amazing transformations from real families to inspire your own holiday project. Christmas Playhouse Inspiration for the Holiday Season A playhouse can become whatever your child dreams up. During the holidays, it can turn into a gingerbread house, Santa's headquarters, or a reindeer stable. Make decorating it together with your children a family tradition.  As you work side by side to hang lights and arrange decorations, you’re building memories that will be treasured for years to come. This shared project fosters creativity and teamwork, making the result even more meaningful. Playhouse Decorating Ideas to Create Holiday Magic Ready to dress up your outdoor playhouse for the holidays? Here are some tips.  Add Lights and Garland Let's illuminate your playhouse! Few things capture the holiday spirit quite like shimmering lights and beautiful garland.  Drape string lights: Use battery-operated string lights along the roofline, windows, and doorway. Choose classic white for a warm glow or multi-colored strands for a playful feel. Wrap with garland: Adorn pillars, railings, and windows with garland. Choose classic green garland for a natural look, or a pre-lit or flocked variety for extra flair. Add festive accents: Add small, shatterproof ornaments or red bows to your garland to instantly make the playhouse feel like a miniature holiday home. Bring the Indoors Out With Cozy Decor Give the playhouse the same inviting feel as your home with a few simple accessories: Welcome mat: Add a cheerful mat at the door for instant charm. Mini wreath: Hang a small wreath or door sign to make it feel lived-in. Soft rug: Lay down a durable outdoor rug for a warm, finished look. Decorative pillows: Use weather-friendly pillows in bright or seasonal colors to make the space feel comfy and fun. Just make sure everything you add can handle a little sun, wind, and rain. Incorporate Holiday Play Accessories and Toys Enhance the atmosphere with seasonal additions that invite imagination and play: Mini Christmas tree: Set up a small artificial tree your child can decorate again and again. Pretend hot cocoa station: Add toy mugs and cotton balls as marshmallows for a sweet twist on make-believe play.  Toy mailbox: Let your child “send” and receive letters to Santa. Holiday books or play baking tools: Create a snug reading corner or a pretend gingerbread bakery. Interactive elements: Make the space truly engaging with hands-on features like a chalkboard for drawing or writing “Santa, stop here!” messages. Real Family Christmas Playhouse Makeovers Need a little inspiration? Some of the sweetest playhouse makeovers come straight from real families who went all out for the holidays. Take a peek at three of our favorites. Elizabeth Homen’s ‘Santa’s Workshop’ Playhouse Transformation Elizabeth brought holiday magic to her KidKraft playhouse, giving it a merry makeover worthy of the North Pole. With paint, seasonal sparkle, and plenty of creativity and Christmas spirit, she turned it into the cutest Santa’s Workshop for her 5- and 2-year-old elves. See how her vision came together in the video below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elizabeth Homen (@elizabethhomen)     A Classic Christmas Welcome Two adorable pups are all set for the holiday paw-ty, looking perfectly at home on the porch of a playhouse dressed in timeless Christmas style. Green wreaths with bright red bows adorn the double doors, while soft white lights twinkle overhead. On each side of the entrance, potted evergreens frame the scene, completing the picture-perfect setting. Sugarplum Snowday This dreamy setup features a white playhouse with a soft pink door framed by a balloon garland in wintry greens and blush tones. Snowflake cutouts dance across the garland and around the playhouse, adding a sprinkle of winter wonder, just right for a little pretty-in-pink princess. A fluffy wreath and welcoming doormat tie it all together, while a wooden reindeer out front complements the storybook scene. Bring extra joy to the season with KidKraft’s outdoor playhouses. Explore creative ways to dress up your child’s playhouse and turn it into a family-friendly space for active play and imagination all season long. Looking for a special gift? Check out the KidKraft gift guide and discover something for every kid on your list.

Buying Guide: Kids Kitchen Playset

  Children’s Pretend Kitchen Buying Guide: Tips for Choosing the Best One There's a special kind of magic that happens when a child steps behind their very own pretend kitchen counter. The clatter of wooden spoons, the turn of a pretend stovetop knob, and the serious look of concentration as they prepare a feast for their favorite stuffed animals. These are the sweet moments where imagination takes flight.  If you're ready to bring this world of make-believe into your home, this guide will help you find the perfect KidKraft play kitchen for your little chef. Why a Pretend Kitchen Is the Perfect Toy for Imaginative Play A pretend kitchen provides a rich environment for pretend play, where children can imitate the grown-ups in their lives and explore new roles. It supports cognitive development as kids build real-life skills when they “bake,” “cook,” and “wash.”  Language development: Naming ingredients, describing creations, and using new vocabulary expand children’s communication abilities. Problem-solving skills: Figuring out how to whip up imaginary meals or organize their kitchen fosters critical thinking. Social skills: Sharing the play space and "food" with siblings or friends encourages teamwork and cooperation. Creative storytelling: Inventing scenarios and pretending to be a chef or baker nurtures imagination. Practical life skills: Imitating real-world tasks helps build confidence and familiarity with everyday activities. Key Features To Look For in a Pretend Kitchen When shopping for a children’s pretend kitchen, consider your child’s age, personality, and your available space. Consider the following important factors to find a set that will engage your child and inspire hours of joyful play. Size and Space First, be sure to measure the space you plan to locate your new play kitchen—eyeballing it is not the way to go here. Then, check the kitchen’s measurements to ensure it can comfortably fit in your chosen spot.  As for the right toy kitchen size for your child, there’s a lot of flexibility. Younger kids will grow into larger sets, while pre-schoolers still enjoy playing with smaller models. Older children may also be drawn to more detailed designs that let them take the lead in pretend play, from arranging and stocking their “pantry” to planning elaborate menus.  When it comes to play kitchen height, aim for a model with countertops that sit around hip level for your child. Interactive Features and Design The details often make the biggest difference: Interactive features: Do the knobs on the oven click and turn? Do the appliance doors open and close? These unique features make playtime more realistic and entertaining. Exciting extras: Many of our pretend kitchens for kids include fun elements like: Ice makers that dispense play cubes Stovetops and faucets that light up and make sounds Beautiful styles: From retro-inspired designs to modern culinary setups, there’s a play kitchen style to match every home and personality. Accessories and add-ons A kitchen is not complete without food to cook and dishes to serve it on. While many children’s pretend kitchens come with starter accessory sets, you can expand the fun with additional play food and cookware.  A well-stocked pantry of play food dishes encourages sorting, counting, and inventive recipe-making. Discover our must-have play kitchen accessories to create a complete culinary experience that will keep your little one happily occupied. Top KidKraft Pretend Kitchens to Explore While we have an entire collection of play kitchens for toddlers and older children, here are a couple of favorites that families adore. Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen Designed to fit conveniently into a corner, the L-shaped Ultimate Corner Wooden Play Kitchen is a dream come true for mini chefs-in-training. Its innovative layout is packed with features, including burners that glow, an ice maker that makes sounds, a spinning Lazy Susan under the sink, and a phone to take orders. The butcher-block style countertop, functional doors, and ample shelving provide a realistic setting for cooking adventures.  Vintage Play Kitchen With timeless charm and a sweet, simple design, the Vintage White Play Kitchen captures the heart of imaginative play. Kids love the interactive details, like oven knobs that click and see-through doors on the oven and microwave to check on food’s “progress.” The durable wooden construction ensures this kitchen will be a beloved part of your playroom for years to come. This classic is perfect for toddlers developing their creative skills, and it complements any decor tastefully. Inspire Imagination With a KidKraft Pretend Kitchen A children’s pretend kitchen is a gift that keeps on giving, offering a special place for your child to grow, learn, and create memories. It’s a stage for a thousand stories, from hosting a simple tea party to running a bustling five-star restaurant. Bring imagination to life with a beautifully crafted KidKraft pretend kitchen. Discover our entire collection of play kitchens to find the ideal set for your budding chef today.

Playroom Inspiration to Refresh Your Kids’ Space This New Year

As we step into the New Year, resolutions are popping up everywhere. But who says they have to be just for grown-ups? How about giving your kids’ favorite space a fresh start, too? This coming year, transform their playroom into a bright, imaginative haven where creativity, laughter, and a little bit of joyful chaos can thrive. Playroom Inspiration for a Fresh Start A playroom refresh creates a space that encourages learning, inspires play, and helps keep things tidy along the way. With a few updates, you can turn their playroom into a cheerful corner that’s ready for new adventures, creative messes, and plenty of “look what I made!” moments. How to Design a Playroom That’s Functional and Fun What goes into a playroom? It’s a mix of creativity, comfort, and smart organization. The goal is to design a kid-friendly space that gives your child room to play and explore, all in a setting that’s safe, practical, and easy to maintain. Here are some tips:  Choose Smart Playroom Furniture The right furniture can transform a playroom from cluttered to clean. A few key pieces can define areas for different activities. This intentional design keeps things orderly and helps children take ownership of their own play area. Here are a few playroom furniture ideas: Child-sized table and chairs: A spot for little artists to paint, build cardboard castles, or make paper crowns before sitting down for a well-earned snack break. Low-to-the-ground bookshelves: Bookcases and bookshelves invite tiny hands to grab their favorite bedtime story or discover a new adventure to nurture their own lifelong love of reading. Multi-functional pieces: An activity table with built-in storage keeps art supplies, building blocks, cars, and train tracks close at hand. It makes it easy to switch from playtime to cleanup in no time. Keep It Organized With Storage Solutions Taming the toy takeover turns the playroom from a daily scavenger hunt into a happy, stress-free zone. No more searching for missing puzzle pieces or that one crayon they have to use. Everything has its place, and playtime stays fun and peaceful for everyone. Give every toy a home: Use bins, baskets, and shelving units to keep things tidy. Opt for clear containers: They help kids see what’s inside, making both playtime and cleanup a breeze. Create designated zones: Think a cozy reading nook, a vibrant art station, or a building block corner. Playroom Decor Inspiration to Spark Creativity Decor sets the tone for any room. Here’s some inspiration for making your child’s space more playful, welcoming, and magical.  Pick a captivating theme: Let your child's interests guide you. Are they an aspiring astronaut or chef? Do they love animals or adore fairy tales? Choose a theme that makes the room feel special and designed just for them. Embrace bright, cheerful colors: Match the room’s energy to your child’s. Try bold paint, colorful rugs, or pillows to keep the space feeling playful and inviting. Add personality with wall decals: Want color and character without committing to paint or wallpaper? Removable decals add an individual touch and can be easily changed as your child’s interests evolve. Showcase your child's masterpieces: Displaying their artwork not only personalizes the space but also makes kids feel incredibly proud of their creations. KidKraft Favorites to Inspire Your Playroom Refresh Ready to bring your playroom vision to life? Start with one standout toy that pulls the room together and keeps your little one coming back for more. Here are a few ideas: A classic wooden play kitchen: An interactive play kitchen can become the heart of the playroom, perfect for culinary “creations.” A detailed dollhouse: Great for kids who love creating their own little worlds, complete with tiny rooms and big stories. Themed play sets: Select a themed play set that encourages your child to play out scenarios, like parking cars in a garage or steering their own pirate ship. A train set: Whether it’s looping around the room or winding through wooden towns on a train table, a train set brings endless movement and creativity to playtime. Start the Year With a Playroom Full of Possibility Refreshing your child’s playroom is the perfect way to kick off the new year with a clean slate and a burst of fun. A well-organized space makes playtime smoother, cleanup quicker, and independent play a whole lot easier. With a few updates, you can create a space that feels fresh, functional, and full of good energy—ready for all the games, crafts, and big ideas the year ahead will bring. Discover more affordable playroom organization ideas or shop our outlet and our full collection of kids’ furniture.

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How to Teach Sharing through Play

How to Teach Sharing through Play

Activities That Promote Sharing Sharing doesn’t come naturally for toddlers. Putting aside their own desires and prioritizing someone else’s requires a level of cognitive development that most kids won’t fully reach until age 3.5 to 4. But that doesn’t mean we can’t help our kids progress toward sharing and taking turns before that. The sooner we start setting expectations, encouraging sharing, and helping them process big emotions when they don’t want to share, the more likely they’ll be able to share easily and happily as they get older. Here are a few tips adults can use to help toddlers and preschoolers share with their siblings and peers – plus a few activities that make sharing fun for even the most close-fisted kiddos.   Think “Long Turns” instead of “Share Right Away” Your three-year-old picks up a toy, and your eighteen-month-old immediately toddles over to grab it. Your three-year-old shrieks, the baby cries, and you remind the older child to share with their sibling. Sound familiar? While this approach to sharing may seem easy to us, for younger kids, it feels unfair and even baffling. And when you really think about it, even you wouldn’t take kindly to someone wanting an item you’d just begun to use. In these cases, it’s best to let the first child who had the toy play with it until they’re finished. Once they’ve left the toy behind, the other child can take their own long turn – no snatching allowed from either kid.This approach to sharing is more in line with toddler and preschooler’s cognitive development. “I can’t snatch something someone else has” is much easier to comprehend than “I must give up the thing I have because someone else wants it.”   Help Kids Wait Their Turn Of course, this approach is tough for the child who has to wait their turn. You can help by acknowledging and validating their feelings (i.e. “It’s okay to be upset. Waiting is hard.) and helping them find other ways to play as they wait. Sometimes a little distraction is key to preventing a meltdown.   Praise Spontaneous Sharing and Point Out the Positive Consequences Okay, so we get that the “turn-taking” scenario isn’t *exactly* sharing. So when kids do share all on their own, make sure you encourage the behavior with praise (just don’t overdo it) and point out how happy they’ve made their sibling or friend. Doing so will help your child want to share more as they get older. Sharing becomes something they can be proud of and feel good about instead of something adults force them to do.   Fun Activities that Promote Sharing To make sharing even more attractive, try out games and activities that make sharing fun!   Basketball, Soccer and Other Team Sports The toddler version that is! All the technical rules are too much for toddlers to understand, but working towards a common goal of passing the ball to each other and getting in the hoop or goal? That they can handle. The more they toss or kick the ball to their peers, the more you cheer!   Hot Potato/Pass the Ball Hot potato is all about not keeping the ball, so it’s great for kids who struggle to give up objects to their friends. If your little ones are too young to understand hot potato, try a simple game of rolling and passing the ball back and forth. Make passes quick and silly to make it seem more fun!   Pretend Sharing Even if your kid doesn’t love to share, they’re probably totally fine with their dolls, stuffed animals, and other toys sharing with each other. As you play pretend with your child, you can make up scenarios where both dolls want a turn in the elevator dollhouse or both trains want to go through the tunnel. You can act out the situation together… and of course, you’ll make sure the toys showcase sharing as fun and easy!   Role Play Sharing Similarly, your child might be more willing to share if they’re pretending to be a character rather than themselves. For example, they can be the head chef in their play kitchen who needs to share the tools and food with you, their assistant. Learning to share will take plenty of time and patience from both your child and you! We hope these tips and activities can make that process a little less tear-filled and a lot more fun!  

Key Childhood Development Milestones

Key Childhood Development Milestones

Childhood Milestones By Age From sitting up on their own to recognizing letters and numbers, kids’ early years are filled with important developmental milestones. So much so that it can leave parents feeling overwhelmed and pressured to help their kids “check all the boxes.” But take that pressure off – the good news is that with a supportive environment, most kids reach their physical, cognitive, and social milestones just fine. Even so, knowing the basic milestones for each age group can help you determine if you should ask your child’s pediatrician about their development. While it seems like apps, books, and information on babies’ milestones are everywhere, finding info developmental milestones for toddlers and preschoolers can be a bit tougher. To make things simple, here are some of the childhood developmental milestones the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics use as markers of healthy development for kids ages 2 and up.   2 Years Social & Emotional Copies others Shows interest in other children. (At this age, they still mainly play near other kids but will also start playing with them occasionally. For more on the difference between the two, check out our article on Types of Play). Growing in independence Shows defiant behavior (Yep. Though it’s still important to set clear boundaries, pushing those boundaries is actually an important part of your child’s development. Language & Communication Can point to objects/ pictures as you name them. Can name some items in a picture book Knows names of familiar people/ body parts/ objects Says 2 - 4 word sentences Follows simple instructions Cognitive Finds things even when hidden under two or three covers Begins to sort shapes and colors (They don’t have to be perfect at this by any means!) Completes sentences and rhymes in familiar books Plays simple make-believe games Builds towers of 4 or more blocks Physical Can stand on tiptoes Kicks a ball Begins to run (Toddling, non-graceful runs are A-Okay at this age!) Climbs onto and down from furniture without help Walks up and down stairs while holding rails/ hands for support 3 Years Social & Emotional Shows affection and concern for friends Understands possessive pronouns (i.e. mine, his, hers, etc.) Takes turns during games Can usually separate from parents/ main caregivers easily Dresses and undresses self Language & Communication Follows 2 -3 step instructions Can name most familiar things Understands prepositions (i.e. in, on, around, etc.) Names friends Uses pronouns (i.e I, me, we, etc.) and some plurals Others can understand their speech most of the time Converses with 2 - 3 sentences Cognitive Plays make-believe with dolls, animals, and people Complete 3 - 4 piece puzzles Understands the concept of the number “2” Can copy a circle with a pencil or crayon (It doesn’t need to be a perfect circle!) Builds towers of more than 6 blocks Turns jar lids and door handles Physical Climbs well Runs easily Pedals a tricycle (3-wheel bike) Climbs onto and down from furniture without help Walks up and downstairs, one foot on each step 4 Years Social & Emotional Enjoys doing new things Is increasingly creative with make-believe play Prefers to play with other children over playing alone Cooperates with other children (Usually… of course, some disagreements are inevitable!) Talks about likes and interests Language & Communication Knows some basic rules of grammar, such as correctly using “he” and “she” Sings or says songs and poems from memory Tells stories Can say first and last name Cognitive Names some colors and some numbers Understands the idea of counting (even if they don’t count perfectly yet) Begins to understand time (This doesn’t mean they can tell time yet. Rather, they start to loosely understand concepts of days, hours, past, and present). Can remember and retell parts of a story Understands concepts of “same” and “different” Can use scissors Can draw a person with 2 - 4 body parts Copies some capital letters Tells you what he thinks is going to happen next in a book Physical Hops/ stands on one foot for 2 seconds Can catch bounced balls (most of the time) Pours, mashes, and sometimes cuts own food 5 Years Social & Emotional Wants to please and be like friends More likely to agree with rules Likes to sing, dance, and act Can distinguish between real and make-believe Language & Communication Speaks very clearly Tells a story with full sentences Uses the future tense Can say name and address Cognitive Counts 10 or more things Copies triangles, rectangles, and other geometric shapes with pencil or crayon Draws a person with at least 6 body parts Can write some letters / numbers Knows about everyday items like money Physical Stands/ hops on one foot for 10 + seconds Hops and maybe skips Can do a somersault Controls a fork, spoon, and sometimes a table knife well Can use the bathroom independently Swings and climbs What Can You Do to Support Your Child’s Development? First off, keep in mind that every child will meet milestones at different times. While these guidelines are helpful for determining if your child is developing properly, development isn’t a race and we shouldn’t rush our kids to be ahead or stress if they don’t check every single milestone exactly on their birthday. (Though always talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about missed milestones). That being said, there are plenty of low-stress, low-pressure things parents can and should do to support healthy development for their toddlers and preschoolers. Fortunately, most of these things are as simple as talking, playing, and reading with your kids! Play pretend with your child and follow their lead and ideas. Provide simple toys that promote pretend play such as dolls and toys that promote dramatic roleplay like dress-up costumes, play kitchens, and playhouses. Provide simple toys that promote cognitive development and fine motor skills such as puzzles and blocks. Read with your child every day. Reading is one of the best ways to improve children’s language and cognition, and it will provide inspiration for their own stories and pretend play. Provide craft materials and writing utensils for your child to practice with. Talk and interact with your child as you would prefer to be talked to. They’ll mimic your behavior, so model politeness and patience as much as possible (even when they’re throwing tantrums or testing boundaries). Give your child more and more opportunities for independence as they grow. For example, you can allow them to dress themselves and help out with household chores. If your child doesn’t attend daycare or preschool, set up playdates to provide opportunities for them to interact with their peers. Provide opportunities for active physical play outdoors. Swing sets, balls, climbing/balance toys can help with the development of gross motor skills. Remember, no toy is as important for your child’s development as you are! Still, we all want to know that we’re providing our kids with toys that help, rather than hinder, their physical and cognitive development. For developmentally-friendly toys your kids will love playing with, check out KidKraft’s wide range of play kitchens, dollhouses, building toys, playhouses, swing sets, climbers, and more!    

Toys for Special Needs Children

Toys for Special Needs Children

Oftentimes, the toys that are best for children with special needs are the same toys that are best for typically-developing children. Just as you would for any child, you’ll want to choose toys that promote development and avoid toys that are over-stimulating (think bright lights and sounds) as well as toys that could be unsafe for a particular child’s ability level.We don’t claim to be special needs experts, but we do know that many KidKraft toys can help the development of fine and gross motor skills, language, social skills, and other cognitive processes. These are some of our (and parents’) favorite picks to support healthy development for kids with special needs.   Language and Social Development No, we don’t mean toys that talk. For any child, the greatest tool for language development is … you! If you’ve ever seen a child receive speech therapy from a speech-language pathologist, you’d be surprised to see how much of their session looks like play. While a lot more is going on “behind the scenes” in that therapy, your own play sessions with your child can still be incredibly powerful. Any toy that gives you opportunities to introduce new vocabulary and act out social situations as you play is a great tool for language and social development.Dollhouses and play kitchens are both great for dramatic role-play and allow your child to practice language and social scenarios they might not otherwise encounter in their daily life. (Just be aware of small pieces that might pose a choking hazard for some kids). Baby dolls are another toy that are well known for helping kids develop empathy and social skills. For practice with specific social situations, our Let’s Pretend Pop Ups can help kids practice social behavior in settings like restaurants, grocery stores, and medical offices.   Sensory Processing Seemingly innocuous toys can be a minefield for kids with sensory processing disorders as every child will have different triggers and different soothing sensory inputs. You’ll be the best judge of what they’ll love, what will be too stimulating, and what might help them slowly develop a tolerance for certain sensory experiences.Simple musical toys can be a great way to introduce kids to more auditory experiences in a way that offers them total control over what noises they want to explore. For tactile and olfactory (smell) experiences, you can offer arts and crafts materials with different textures and incorporate food and other materials that offer subtle scents.   Fine Motor Skills Developing motor skills can be especially challenging for kids with certain disabilities. One classic toy that can always help with the development of fine motor skills is good old-fashioned building blocks. Constructive play with blocks is recommended for all children but can be especially helpful for special needs kids who may still need fine motor practice but have lost interest in more “baby-ish” toys like shape sorters. As their motor skills and mental development progress, toys like blocks and building bricks still keep their interest since they can move on to creating more complex structures.   Gross Motor Skills Gross motor skills develop through increasing strength and coordination in major muscle groups. And for kids, there’s no better way to do that than through active play! Climbing toys and outdoor playsets are excellent for promoting balance and vestibular development. Swings can help build core strength and spatial awareness, and many kids with special needs find the swinging motion very calming.It goes without saying that if your child has physical disabilities, you’ll want to use their doctor’s guidance and your own intuition to avoid toys that are too challenging or dangerous for their ability level.   A Final Note Of course, every child is different and will gravitate toward and benefit from different toys. This is especially true for special needs children. A musical toy that is fascinating and soothing for one child with ASD could be a sensory trigger for another child with ASD. A toy that appropriately challenges the fine motor skills of one child might be frustrating and nearly impossible for another. Ultimately, you know your child best and can use your intuition to determine if a toy is right for them!Need some help finding the right toys to accommodate your child’s needs? You can use our Shop by Skills page to find toys that support your child in five different areas of development: Active Play, Cognitive Play, Imaginative Play, Creative Play, and Social Play.  

Plans to Build a Swing Set & 7 Playset Assembly Tips

Plans to Build a Swing Set & 7 Playset Assembly Tips

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

KidKraft Dollhouse Assembly Tips

KidKraft Dollhouse Assembly Tips

When you bring a new KidKraft dollhouse box through your door, one thing’s for sure: your kiddos will be non-stop balls of excitement and anticipation until it’s ready. The only thing standing between them and hours of dollhouse fun? Assembly.But no worries – all KidKraft dollhouses come with easy-to-follow instructions, and we’ve got a few extra dollhouse assembly tips to make the process even easier and faster!   Read All the Instructions You’re way less likely to make frustrating mistakes if you give all the dollhouse assembly instructions a quick read before you get started. And don’t worry, it won’t take that long. Most of our instructions are pictures only, so just glancing through will give you a strong idea of what pieces will go where and the order in which you’ll complete each step. If you lose your paper copy, you can find full instructions for all of our current products online! Just find the product page for your dollhouse and download the PDF.   Clear a Wide Space If you can create a wide, open space for your assembly process, it’ll be easier to organize all your pieces before you start building. We recommend moving all other toys and objects out of the space (and maybe even temporarily moving small pieces of furniture like your coffee table if needed). With all other clutter out of the way, you’ll be less likely to lose pieces as you work.   Inventory and Organize Use all that clear space to take inventory of all your pieces and organize them before you get started. Your instructions will have a detailed list of everything that’s included. Make sure you have everything you should before you start and organize them all into designated spots in your open area. On the off chance that you are missing a piece or something is damaged, get in touch with us right away, and we’ll send you a replacement part ASAP.   Have a Friend With your instructions read, your space clear, and your pieces organized, you’re ready to get started! KidKraft dollhouses can be assembled by a single person, but if possible, we recommend having a friend or family member around to help. It’ll be easier to line up large pieces… and make the whole process more fun!   Have a Plan for the Kids Depending on the age of your kids, you may want to plan assembly for a time when they’re out of the house or in bed. Younger kiddos are likely to move pieces around (or at the very least ask you every five minutes if it’s ready yet!) If you know they’ll have very little patience as they wait for their dollhouse to be ready, you may want to keep everything top secret until it’s completely assembled and ready to go. On the other hand, older kids may actually be great helpers and enjoy telling everyone “I built it myself!”   Reach Out Again, if you have any missing or damaged pieces, let us know ASAP so we can make it right! The easiest method is to fill out the form at parts.kidkraft.com. If you have any other questions, email us at customerservice@kidkraft.com or call us at 1-800-933-0771. We’re always here to help!Still shopping for your perfect dollhouse? Check out our tips for How to Choose the Best Dollhouse for Toddlers!  

Modern Kids Toys

Modern Kids Toys

Modern Kids Toys (That Actually Look Good in Your Home) The design for kids toys has definitely changed since we were kids. While fluorescent plastic used to be the norm, modern kids toys often feature natural materials and more neutral color palettes… you know, the kind that might actually match the other things in your home. A few minutes on Insta is enough to notice the trend of wooden toys and modern designs overtaking the primary-colored plastics – at least when it comes to large toys like play kitchens and play houses. But it’s not just for the ‘gram. Sturdy, wooden toys are more durable than their plastic counterparts and are more likely to be open-ended toys that promote imaginative play. These are some of our favorite modern toys that are on-trend and great for child-led play!   Playhouses Modern Outdoor Playhouse The name says it all. The Modern Outdoor Playhouse features a contemporary, minimalist design. Find it in white-and-gray or in a natural wood finish that’s perfect for customizing.   Cozy Escape Playhouse The trend of navy home exteriors with white trim inspired our Cozy Escape Playhouse in Navy. You get the look of a fully customized, painted playhouse… without actually having to paint it yourself.   Play Kitchens Uptown Natural Play Kitchen “Chrome” and natural wood finishes give the Uptown Natural Play Kitchen a sleek, modern feel that’ll go perfectly with your real stainless steel appliances.   Mosaic Magnetic Play Kitchen The Mosaic Magnetic Play Kitchen features a trendy tile mosaic backsplash that you’d probably love to have in your own kitchen.   To be honest, a ton of our play kitchens have a trendy, modern vibe, so be sure to browse them all to find the one that fits your style best!   Dollhouses Don’t get us wrong, if there’s any toy we love in a brightly-colored princess theme, it’s a dollhouse… but we love the look of a chic, modern dollhouse just as much. Here’s a few of of of modern favs:   So Stylish Mansion Dollhouse The natural wood and open-frame design of the So Stylish Mansion Dollhouse make it great for multiple kids and great choice for blending well with your decor.   Follow us on Instagram for tons of inspiration for modern play kitchens, play houses, and other toys!  

Toys for Twins

Toys for Twins

Toys for Twin Toddlers Having twins means double car seats, double clothes, double beds… but it doesn’t have to mean double toys. Some of the best toys for twins are ones that promote cooperative play (playing together) but work just as well for parallel play too (playing independently but near each other). Here are some of our favorite toys for helping twins and siblings play together…and apart!   Activity Cubes Even babies get jealous…which you know first hand if you’ve ever seen your babe suddenly crawl towards their twin as soon as they pick up a new toy. Activity cubes are one of the best toys for twin babies, because while most baby toys aren’t easily shared, a good-sized activity cube leaves plenty of room for both babies to play.   Let’s Pretend Pop Up Collection If your twins love playing together but still need a little space to themselves, the Let’s Pretend Pop Ups will rock their world! These pop up playsets create an instant vet’s office, restaurant, or grocery store right in your playroom and open up into different “rooms.” So while one twin is settling the dog into the dog house “outside,” the other can check out patients at the receptionist’s desk. It’s the perfect way for twins to play together and still get a little personal space when they need it. Best of all? They’re made from wood, so they can stand up to double trouble for years, and they fold up for easy storage!   Grand Horse Stable & Dollhouse with EZ Kraft Assembly™ One of the best features of the Grand Horse Stable & Dollhouse with EZ Kraft Assembly™ is the open design that lets kids play from any of the sides. So your twins can play with the dollhouse at the same time without bumping into each other. If you’re looking for a more gender-neutral dollhouse for your boy or boys, the So Stylish Mansion Dollhouse offers the same open design with a gender-neutral color palette! Plenty of our other dollhouses are big enough for two, so be sure to check out our entire collection before you make your decision.   Train Sets A good-sized train set has plenty for both twins to do! They can each work on building their own tracks and adding their own accessories (look into an expansion pack if your train set doesn’t have quite enough tracks for both). As the twins get older, train sets are also a great toy for fostering cooperative play and sharing as they learn to envision and build together. At any stage though, it’s a good idea to have a train for each kiddo to push since the train itself is tough to share. If your twins are super into trains, a full train table might be a great investment to keep the trains organized and the kids entertained!   Play Kitchens Play kitchens are a classic toy for twin toddlers because they’re perfect for both cooperative and parallel play. Any kitchen with room for two kiddos to stand is great, but our personal favorite for twins are large corner kitchens like the Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen or the Grand Gourmet Corner Play Kitchen. If you need a smaller kitchen to fit your space, the Retro Play Kitchen & Refrigerator is a great alternative – it’s perfect for small spaces, but the separate refrigerator means you can still spread things out to give each twin some elbow room.Of course, squabbles between twins or any siblings are bound to happen sometimes, but having a few ideal toys for twins in your playroom can help minimize the jealousy and help your twins enjoy playing with and near each other… at least most days!  

Gender Neutral Dollhouses

Gender Neutral Dollhouses

Our Top 6 Gender Neutral Dollhouses We’ve raved about the developmental benefits of dollhouses before. Dollhouses and doll play can help kids gain social skills and empathy and grow their imaginations. Unfortunately, dollhouses are all too often seen as a “girl toy”... even though boys enjoy and benefit from dollhouses too. Gender neutral dollhouses can be the key to making sure boys still feel free to explore this type of play without social pressure to choose “boy toys” instead. They’re also perfect for girls who’d rather skip the pink and “girly” dollhouses.Here are a few of our favorite gender neutral dollhouses, so you can make sure every kid in your house feels free to play away!   So Stylish Mansion Dollhouse If you need a large gender neutral dollhouse that lets multiple kids play at once, the So Stylish Mansion Dollhouse is our top pick. An open natural wood frame gives the dollhouse a clean, minimalist look and lets kids play on every side of the dollhouse. The interior is stylish but simple with gender neutral colors like blue, green, and orange.   Designed by Me: Sticker Fun House The Designed by Me collection lets kids add their own personal touches to their dollhouses, so they’re highly customizable to kids’ individual tastes. The Sticker Fun House starts with a very neutral base. The exterior is natural wood, while the interior walls feature simple patterns in gender neutral color schemes. From there, kids can decorate them with stickers to create their own dream dollhouse. That means adding anything from basketball goals, barbecue pits, and bikes to flowers and rainbows. The included furniture and accessories come in colors like orange, yellow, and blue.   The Hometown Heroes Playset While some of the dollhouses above lean toward the girlier side, the Hometown Heroes Playset definitely has a traditionally boyish feel (though we know little girls love fire trucks and helicopters just as much as the boys do!) This dollhouse-in-disguise features multiple rooms for the included police officer and fireman to work and relax before it’s time to rush off to the next emergency. Playsets like Hometown Heroes are perfect for boys or girls who turn up their noses at “real” dollhouses but still enjoy this type of pretend play.   The Everyday Heroes Wooden Playset Similar to Hometown Heroes, the Everyday Heroes Playset offers all of the benefits of a dollhouse but is disguised as a more traditional “boy” toy. Overall, It’s a great toy for any boy or girl who loves flashing lights and fire trucks!   We think dollhouses truly can be one of the best gender neutral toys out there. They align with all kids’ natural desire to pretend and role play and help foster their growing imaginations. So, if your child steers clear of all things pink, simply opt for one of our more gender neutral choices instead to give them all the benefits of playing with dolls and dollhouses!   Looking to shop for dollhouses by age? Discover our dollhouses for 2-to-4-year olds, 3-to-5 year olds, and 5 years and up now.