When determining features for your playhouse, sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. Lacey Fisher LPC-S, RPT-S, a registered play therapist based in Texas, tells Verywell Family, “Any playhouse can have some toys added to it that will encourage imaginative play, but there is no need to get too many toys. In fact, too many toys can be overwhelming for some children so smaller amounts can be sufficient.” Other important features to consider are smooth surfaces that won’t cause pinching, scraping, splinters and if the playhouse can stand up to the climate it will be in. We researched the top picks from trusted brands and considered design, material, value, and ease of assembly when reviewing products. Here are the best playhouses for toddlers that prompt hours of pretend play. When it’s not in use, there is a cover to protect the sand and water table, which also turns it into more activity space. This playhouse is safe for kids as young as 2 years old, it’s made of plastic, and it is great for indoor or outdoor use. The inside of the house has an open space for kids between 2 and 6 years old to dream up different play scenarios. While the playhouse does require some assembly, the process is straightforward and typically quick. It also comes with two wooden toy storage boxes and includes a little wooden bench with a cushion. This is the kind of playhouse that will remain a fixture in a backyard for years and years; it’s designed for kids between 3 and 10 years old. There is also a movable bench that is just the right size to prop up under the house’s serving window. Inside the playhouse is a pretend kitchen that comes complete with a cordless phone, two pans, and a spatula. This playhouse is full of fun details that kids will absolutely love. The Dutch door and window shutters open and close and there are little decorative details all over to make the playhouse feel like a perfect kid-size home. The door to the playhouse can be rolled up to stay open or rolled down if your little one wants privacy. Kids as young as 3 years old will love the simple, but colorful design and all of the imaginative play that comes with it. There is also a serving window with a little outdoor grill and a grill cover for your little chef to whip up a pretend meal. Inside is a counter with a sink and faucet, and there’s even a chalkboard that’s perfect for little ones to doodle on. Additionally, if it is an outdoor playhouse, check the structure’s weight and see if there is any way to anchor it to the ground to avoid damage during bad weather.
Design and Features
Consider how your child likes to play when picking out a playhouse for them, and look for one with features or add-ons that would appeal to them. Don’t feel like you need to get one with all of the “extras”, though, because the playhouse itself is a toy. Lacey Fisher, a registered play therapist based in Texas, tells Verywell Family, “Any playhouse can have some toys added to it that will encourage imaginative play, but there is no need to get too many toys. In fact, too many toys can be overwhelming for some children so smaller amounts can be sufficient.”
Durability
This is especially important if you’re getting an outdoor playhouse, because the last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money, only for the toy to be destroyed after one season of weather. When purchasing a playhouse, think about the climate you live in and which materials will hold up the best. Regardless of whether you’re putting it inside or outside, invest in a playhouse that your toddler can safely have fun with now but also won’t grow out of too quickly. Thankfully, kids enjoy imaginative play for a long time, but you’ll increase your chances of longevity if you purchase a playhouse with some room to grow.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old. She has personal experience in researching and purchasing a variety of children’s products, including playhouses. Key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include expert advice, age appropriateness, and user reviews.
