How to Build a Playhouse
The playhouse is an important toy for children, providing a setting for role playing and social interaction. Role play enables children to make sense of the world around them by reenacting events they have witnessed or heard about—visiting the dentist, going shopping, talking on the phone, visiting daddy, cleaning up after a flood, birthday parties, picnics and more.
A playhouse can be indoor or outdoor, but it should be weatherproof and durable enough to stand up to frequent use. It should also be big enough to accommodate multiple kids at one time and include features like a slide, balcony and windows for kids to interact with their environment and play together. It’s also important to consider the child’s age when selecting a playhouse. Kids will outgrow a playhouse in relatively short order, so avoid options that won’t grow with them.
When selecting a playhouse, look for a model that is easy to clean and assembled with sturdy materials. Look for models that include storage space to keep toys tidy and safe, and choose a design that will suit your outdoor space. If you’re constructing your own playhouse, consider adding accessories like curtains, a rug and furniture to enrich the experience for your kids.
While it may seem daunting to build a playhouse yourself, the process can be a rewarding and educational family project. To get started, gather your materials and tools. You’ll need seven 10 foot (3.0 m) PVC pipes that measure 3/4″ each, ten converter pieces, four 45 degree angle elbows and ten 3-way connectors. You’ll also need fabric and a sewing kit or machine to create the cover for your playhouse.
Once you’ve completed the frame of your playhouse, install the shingles by screwing them to the plywood roof surface. Once the shingles are secure, your children can begin to enjoy their new toy.
If you’re looking for a fun way to entertain your kids this summer, this double-decker wood playhouse is the perfect solution. It’s packed with tons of features, including a rock climbing wall, slide, picnic table and cedar window boxes for planting your own flowers. However, our 5-year-old tester was most impressed by the towering wooden slide. Whether he was laying down cars on it or slipping down the side, the 12-foot tube provided non-stop entertainment and helped him work up his balance and motor skills.
With a kitchen, dinette and side serving window, this toy is the perfect place for pretending dinner parties, Barbies and other imaginative play. A built-in grill adds to the fun, while a retractable canopy provides shade during hot weather. And to complete the setup, this playhouse comes with a pull-out storage drawer to keep toys neatly organized. When not in use, this versatile playhouse folds down into a flat sheet for easy storage.