Aunt Linda’s View from the Cottage

We at Whimsmoore are passionate believers in the importance of children’s play. And what’s more enticing than a child-sized playhouse? We predict you’ll find at least one option here that will fit your child, your home, and your budget.

Repurpose a Space – Clean out those old Christmas decorations and camping gear from under the stairs. If the space has been a guest closet, use a wall rack with hooks instead. Do you have a tool shed that’s rusty with old tools? Get rid of the ones you don’t use and put the good ones in a corner closet. Then freshen up the space by painting with fun colors.

Wall off a Section in the Attic – Use plywood and your carpentry skills, or if you can’t drive a nail without hitting your thumb, define the space with blankets hung over rope.

Build a Playhouse from Scratch – If you are handy, have the time and creative energy, make your child’s playhouse yourself. Consider incorporating a window that can be used as a puppet theater stage. Encourage your child to help in the planning. She can draw you pictures for design ideas and pick paint colors and other decorations.

How About a Tree House?-If you have the right tree, consider building a tree house. Whimsmoore carries a great book to consult for ideas and practical information: Tree Houses You Can Actually Build

Make a Temporary Playhouse with Cardboard and Duct Tape – Ask your nearest appliance store or storage company for large discarded boxes. Cut out windows and a door with a matte knife. Lightly score one ply (layer) of the cardboard so the other ply can serve as a hinge. Reinforce with duct tape. Let your child decorate with marking pens or poster paint.

Let Your Children Construct a Rainy Day Playhouse with Chairs and Blankets – This old favorite never grows too old in the eyes of a child. Cover the carpet with a sheet or blanket as well, so you can serve snacks to the “house’s inhabitants.”

Set up a Child-Sized Table and Chairs Under a Low-hanging Willow – Allow the children to pick flowers, twigs and moss for decoration. Serve lemonade and cookies using a child’s sturdy tea set. Whimsmoore’s Tin Tea Set is a natural.

Purchase a Play Tent for Instant Fun – These go up and down quickly and are perfect for grandparents to have on hand for visiting grandchildren. Check out Whimsmoore’s great selection of Bazoongi Kids Playtents.

Buy a Playhouse Kit – Whimsmoore carries pre-made kits as well as custom designs (See my next blog post, Sneak Preview). A club house, a pirate lair, a magic cottage I call an Elfery™, whatever the kids call it, it translates into hours of outdoor fun for years to come. A great investment!

Remember the Furnishings!- These can range from simple to elegant. Start with a child-sized table and chair set and/or a multi-function play kitchen. Whimsmoore has a broad range of styles and prices for every budget.

So start planning your play house today. The sooner you get started, the more years of fun and creativity your child will enjoy!