10 Awesome Playhouse Accessories
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A kid’s backyard playhouse can be as simple as a pitched tent or elaborate as a mini-mansion. To a kid, the size doesn’t matter. Just having a place all their own to pretend to be a grownup is enough, but adding a few awesome accessories gives the playhouse a special touch.
Outdoor playhouses are a great way for kids to get fresh air and exercise while enjoying hours of imaginative playtime. However, just like any play area, a playhouse needs some accessories to make it more enjoyable for kids. Whether your child’s playhouse is a simple DIY project or a more elaborate structure, adding some accessories can help to make it more fun, entertaining, and comfortable.
From swings and slides to sandboxes and picnic tables, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to accessorizing your child’s outdoor playhouse. In this post, we’ll share with you the top 10 must-have accessories that your kids will love and that will make their playhouse the envy of the neighborhood!
Why outdoor playhouses are beneficial for kids
Outdoor playhouses are a great addition to any backyard or outdoor space, providing children with a fun and safe area to play and explore. But these playhouses are much more than just a way to keep kids entertained. In fact, they offer a range of benefits that can help children develop important life skills and improve their overall well-being.
For one, outdoor playhouses encourage children to engage in physical activity and exercise. With so many distractions and screens vying for kids’ attention these days, having a designated play area that encourages movement and outdoor play is more important than ever. Playhouses can also help children to develop their social skills, as they learn to share and collaborate with others during imaginative play.
In addition, playhouses promote creativity and imagination. Children can use their playhouse as a space to create their own world and let their imaginations run wild, whether they’re playing dress-up, hosting a tea party, or pretending to be pirates on the high seas. Plus, having their own special play area can boost a child’s confidence and sense of independence.
Safety considerations when choosing accessories
When it comes to choosing accessories for your kids’ outdoor playhouse, safety should always be a top priority. You want to make sure that the accessories you choose are age-appropriate and won’t pose any risks to your children’s safety.
- If you’re choosing things like slides or climbing walls, make sure they are the appropriate height for your children’s age and abilities. You also want to make sure that the accessories are sturdy and won’t wobble or tip over during use.
- Make sure that they are made from high-quality, durable materials that won’t break or splinter over time. You also want to make sure that any sharp edges or corners are covered or rounded off to prevent any injuries.
- Consider the placement of the accessories in relation to other items in your yard. Make sure that there is plenty of space around the playhouse and that any trees, rocks, or other potential hazards are far enough away to prevent any accidents.
Essentials of Kids’ Really Cool Playhouses
Playhouses are classics and still beloved by kids. The basic ingredients are still the same too….four walls, something overhead and something to stand on…..and all kid-size. That’s all kids really need but to make it a really cool playhouse, there are a few essentials to consider.
A cool entrance complete with a Dutch door, window boxes, a welcome sign, flowers, and a place to enjoy sitting in the garden are all playhouse essentials…..if you want it to be a really cool playhouse that is.
Storage, storage, and more storage are essential if you want kids to learn how to keep their own little house tidy just like mom’s.
A kitchen with all the appliances is essential for any playhouse…..and a red one just adds a little more drama!
Hooks and shelves on the wall plus chests on wheels are essential for boys’ hideouts. A place to put all their gear is definitely essential. Windows dressed with a simple top treatment is all that’s needed for little girls to feel like the playhouse is their own little mansion. Fabric is essential.
Kid size furniture, especially tables and chairs, are a top essential for playhouses. You never know who just might visit for an afternoon party or two.
A Swing
Swings are a classic accessory for any outdoor playhouse and can provide endless entertainment for kids. However, with so many types of swings available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your child’s playhouse.
Firstly, consider the age and size of your child. For younger children, a bucket swing or a toddler swing with a secure harness is ideal. For older children, a traditional belt swing or tire swing can be a great option.
Next, consider the material of the swing. Wooden swings are a classic choice and can blend in nicely with a wooden playhouse, but they require more maintenance to prevent rotting and warping. Plastic swings are a low-maintenance option but may not be as durable as wooden or metal swings.
Another important factor to consider is the weight limit of the swing. Make sure to choose a swing that can safely hold your child’s weight and also take into account any friends or siblings who may want to use the swing together.
Lastly, consider the installation process. Some swings may require professional installation, while others can be easily installed with a swing set kit. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and installation instructions to ensure the swing is secure and safe for your child to use.
Address Plate
Give the playhouse an address to place it on a kid’s map. Use attached or painted numbers on the playhouse or do like this owner and paint the number on a rock.
Mailbox
Kids love to get mail. Once they have an address, providing a personalized mailbox is a great way to add excitement. Occasionally throw in some junk mail or catalogs to make it more interesting.
Window Box
Whether real or artificial, flowers add color and create a feeling of home. Add a window box and let the kids experience growing their own plants.
Outdoor Lighting
As the days get shorter, it becomes more difficult for kids to enjoy their outdoor playhouse after dusk. However, with the right lighting, they can extend their playtime and make the most of their playhouse even when the sun goes down.
String lights are a great option for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the playhouse. You can wrap them around the interior walls or drape them over the roof to create a warm and welcoming glow. Fairy lights are another great option, especially for younger children who will love the magical effect they create.
Add solar accent lights in the ground around the playhouse or in a flower pot. Either way, when the lights come on, it can signal the time to come in, provide a safety feature, or create a fun outdoor focal point.
Solar-powered lights are a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option that can be easily installed without the need for wiring or electricity. They absorb energy from the sun during the day and automatically turn on at night, providing a soft and subtle glow that is perfect for outdoor play.
For a more practical lighting option, consider installing outdoor spotlights or floodlights. These can be positioned to light up the playhouse and the surrounding area, making it easier for kids to play and explore after dark. Motion-activated lights are also a great option for added security and peace of mind.
Door Knocker or Doorbell
Attaching a knocker to the door or a bell beside the door jamb can help teach manners…..knock before entering.
Shelving
Keeping kid stuff off the floor helps keep the playhouse clean and teaches organization. Shelves are a great way to organize.
Kid-sized tools
Kid-sized tools make chores easier but in a playhouse, cleaning is never work! Household tools….kids are never too young to learn how to clean.
Garden tools can help instill a love of nature, especially for those who love to dig. Let the kids landscape their ground around the playhouse.
Curtains
A simple rod (boys will love the branches) to hang curtains add privacy and control light…..just like home.
Flags
Attach a pole to the playhouse for flags to fly on holidays, to honor special days, or to express personality.
Holiday Decorations
Kids love to celebrate holidays. What better way to extend festivities than to decorate the playhouse.
There are plenty more ideas for accessorizing a kid’s playhouse, but these are my top 10 favorites. What are yours?
Additional accessories to enhance the playhouse
While the basic features of a playhouse are essential for fun and imaginative play, additional accessories can enhance the playhouse experience even further. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Furniture – Add child-sized tables, chairs, and benches to create a cozy and comfortable space for your child and their friends to play and relax.
- Lighting – String lights or lanterns can create a magical ambiance and extend playtime into the evening hours.
- Climbing wall – For older children, a climbing wall can add an exciting challenge and a great workout.
- Sandbox – A sandbox is a classic addition to any playhouse and provides hours of fun for children of all ages.
- Swing set – Adding a swing set next to the playhouse can create a complete outdoor play space.
- Garden bed – Encourage your child’s green thumb by adding a garden bed next to the playhouse.
- Music player – A Bluetooth speaker or MP3 player can provide a soundtrack for your child’s imaginative play.
- Chalkboard – A chalkboard can be used for drawing, writing messages, or playing games like tic-tac-toe.
- Play Kitchen – A play kitchen can provide hours of imaginative play and is a great way to encourage your child’s interest in cooking and baking.
- Telescope or binoculars – For the little explorer, a telescope or binoculars can add an exciting element of discovery to outdoor playtime.
We hope you enjoyed our blog about the must-have accessories for your kids’ outdoor playhouse. We know that keeping kids occupied and engaged can be a challenge, but with these fun and interactive accessories, your children will be able to enjoy their playhouse even more. From swings and slides to picnic tables and chalkboards, these accessories will make your kids’ playtime even more enjoyable. We hope you found this article helpful and that you and your family have many happy hours playing in and around your outdoor playhouse!