Playing imaginatively during early childhood helps children to grow intellectually, improves their concentration, and strengthens their memory. A playhouse provides the children a space of their own. With playhouses, kids have a blank canvas on which to build their imaginary worlds. They can play several role-playing games, create settings like a market, a school, a hospital, or a kitchen according to their imagination.
Through the whole pretend play, they receive social training that increases their communication skills, competency, logical reasoning skills, creativity, and reading abilities.
Playhouses can be a great way to keep the kids entertained. Since there are many indoor and outdoor playhouses, you can select the best one according to your preferences and budget. It is important to note that not every playhouse is the same, as their design, functionality, and size differ. Because of this, you should know that a playhouse is different from a house because it allows kids to play with it. A small design is suitable for one or two toddlers, while a larger design is suitable for up to 4-5 children.
It is also true that playhouses tend to be realistic since they mimic real houses with functionalities such as windows, doors, or porches. But it is also essential to set a budget. For example, wooden playhouses require more investment than plastic playhouses.
What to look for while searching for a playhouse?
Prior to purchasing a playhouse, you should follow a few easy guidelines. Since every design is different, it needs to be attractive to your children. But at the same time, no one likes a complex setting. As a result, the playhouse must provide a safe solution and be easy to install.
Safety
Since your beloved junior will spend a lot of time in the playhouse, safety should be a top priority while purchasing it. That’s why you should focus on the safest designs. In terms of safety, panel construction is one of the best options. However, most playhouses come with roofs as well. Make sure that the roof is durable to avoid accidents.
Make sure that the safety of the children’s playhouse is monitored. You should pay special attention to each part and area of the house. Check carefully for sharp corners, especially at the peak points. The materials, especially plastics, should be compatible with sunlight; otherwise, excessive sun exposure may cause them to melt. Check for cracks in the doors and windows. Be wary about space and gaps.
Make sure that the lumbers are thoroughly dried and that they are well painted if you are planning to purchase a wooden house. If the paint is peeling or chipped, your child may swallow some.
Ease of installation
The majority of playhouses do come with an installation option, but they are usually quite expensive. So if you don’t have the luxury to buy an assembled wooden playhouse, you should go for the home assembly option. You don’t want to spend a whole day or more fixing it, so find one with an easy installation process.
Size
Having multiple toddlers within a small playhouse is not convenient for children. It is a good idea for parents who want to use large playhouses to choose outdoor designs. Then you will be able to choose the options that work best for you and provide a sufficient level of safety for your needs. Larger playhouses may even come with added accessories, including extra space. Some come with pretend picnic tables and extra chairs.
However, the largest is not always the best. Make sure you have enough space to store all the playhouse components. A few manufacturers started focusing on foldable designs. Some are available in a suitcase-style format for carrying easily when necessary.
Accessories
The accessories of the playhouse are essential as well. Accessories such as pretend kitchen utensils and fake doorbells can enhance kids’ playtime. However, some playhouses don’t come with any accessories. Several brands allow parents to purchase additional accessories if needed. In many cases, the accessories kids get to play with can engage their creativity. This is why you should look for options that will be fun and allow your toddler to play according to their imagination.
Durability
To ensure maximum safety, invest in durable toys and playhouses. Playhouses that are durable last for years; they can be stored and used in the future. In the case of wooden playhouses, keep them away from moisture and storage them in basements.
The appearance of wooden playhouses is also pleasing. When it’s raining or when it’s cold outside, it’s best not to leave them outside. Unstable weather can easily damage wood particles. To keep wooden playhouses in good condition, you need to take the right steps.
Storage
Playhouses made of plastic are ideal for storage. They are easy to clean with any detergent or just water. They are easy to carry if you want to change the place or store them.
It is also important to consider the design of the playhouse if you want to save them. If you already have a lot of toys and kid’s objects to store, a wooden playhouse can feel like an extra burden. If you want a lightweight solution that is easy to carry, you should opt for plastic alternatives.
Functionality
A good outdoor playhouse often comes with two or more points of entry, two or more windows, and even a porch. Kids will become more creative and functional if their homes provide wide spaces, kitchen utensils, a flower garden, and more.
