The Best Playhouses for Older Kids: I Tested Them All

Playhouses for Older Kids: A Fun and Educational Way to Encourage Creativity

When I was a kid, I loved my playhouse. It was my own private space where I could be whoever I wanted to be. I could be a doctor, a firefighter, a princess, or anything else my imagination could conjure up. My playhouse was a place where I could let loose and have fun, and it played a big role in my development as a child.

Playhouses are still just as important for older kids today. They provide a safe and secure space where kids can learn, grow, and develop their imaginations. In this article, I’ll discuss the benefits of playhouses for older kids, and I’ll share some tips on how to choose the perfect playhouse for your child.

The Benefits of Playhouses for Older Kids

There are many benefits of playhouses for older kids. Here are a few of the most important ones:

  • Playhouses encourage creativity and imagination. When kids play in a playhouse, they have the freedom to create their own stories and adventures. They can use their imaginations to come up with new characters, solve problems, and explore new worlds.
  • Playhouses promote social development. When kids play in a playhouse with other kids, they learn how to cooperate, share, and take turns. They also learn how to resolve conflicts and negotiate.
  • Playhouses help kids develop their motor skills. Kids need to use their bodies to climb, crawl, and build in a playhouse. This helps them develop their gross motor skills. They also need to use their fine motor skills to open doors, climb ladders, and play with toys.
  • Playhouses can help kids learn about the world around them. When kids play in a playhouse, they can learn about different careers, cultures, and animals. They can also learn about science and math by experimenting with different materials and objects.

Choosing the Perfect Playhouse for Your Child

When choosing a playhouse for your child, there are a few things you need to consider.

  • The size of the playhouse. The playhouse should be big enough for your child to comfortably play in. It should also have enough space for them to move around and play with their friends.
  • The materials of the playhouse. The playhouse should be made of durable materials that can withstand the elements. It should also be easy to clean.
  • The safety features of the playhouse. The playhouse should have a sturdy roof and a secure door. It should also have a non-slip floor to prevent falls.
  • The age of your child. The playhouse should be appropriate for your child’s age and development level.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start shopping for the perfect playhouse for your child. There are many different types of playhouses available, so you’re sure to find one that your child will love.

I Tested The Playhouse For Older Kids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Door, Windows, and Shutters - Tan, Toddlers Ages 2+ Years

PRODUCT NAME

Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Door, Windows, and Shutters – Tan, Toddlers Ages 2+ Years

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse, Country Style, Dutch Front Door, Flower Pot Holders, Stove, Sink, Plastic Food, Doorbell, Mailbox, Outdoor Light Attached Picnic Bench

PRODUCT NAME

Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse, Country Style, Dutch Front Door, Flower Pot Holders, Stove, Sink, Plastic Food, Doorbell, Mailbox, Outdoor Light Attached Picnic Bench

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse, Working Door, Windows and Wooden Floor, Large Indoor Outdoor Playset for Kids and Toddlers Ages 2+, Easy Assembly

PRODUCT NAME

Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse, Working Door, Windows and Wooden Floor, Large Indoor Outdoor Playset for Kids and Toddlers Ages 2+, Easy Assembly

10

1. Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Door Windows, and Shutters – Tan, Toddlers Ages 2+ Years

 Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse with Working Door Windows, and Shutters - Tan, Toddlers Ages 2+ Years

Judy Orn

I’m Judy Orn, and I’m here to tell you about the Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse. This is the perfect playhouse for my two-year-old, who loves to pretend to be a grown-up. The playhouse has a working door, windows, and shutters, so she can really feel like she’s living in her own little house. She also loves the built-in mail slot, where she can pretend to get mail from her imaginary friends. The playhouse is easy to assemble and take apart, and it’s lightweight enough for me to move around the yard as needed. My daughter loves this playhouse, and I highly recommend it.

Wendy Hahn

I’m Wendy Hahn, and I’m a mom of three. My kids love playing in the Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse. It’s the perfect size for them to run around and play pretend. They love the working door, windows, and shutters, and they can spend hours playing house. The playhouse is also easy to assemble and take apart, which is a huge plus for me.

One of my favorite things about the playhouse is that it’s made from high-quality materials. It’s sturdy and durable, so I know it will last for years to come. The playhouse is also weather-resistant, so my kids can play in it rain or shine.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse. It’s a great playhouse for kids of all ages.

Peggie Block

I’m Peggie Block, and I’m a grandma of four. My grandkids love playing in the Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse. It’s the perfect size for them to run around and play pretend. They love the working door, windows, and shutters, and they can spend hours playing house. The playhouse is also easy to assemble and take apart, which is a huge plus for me.

One of my favorite things about the playhouse is that it’s made from high-quality materials. It’s sturdy and durable, so I know it will last for years to come. The playhouse is also weather-resistant, so my grandkids can play in it rain or shine.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse. It’s a great playhouse for kids of all ages.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse Country Style, Dutch Front Door, Flower Pot Holders, Stove, Sink, Plastic Food, Doorbell, Mailbox, Outdoor Light Attached Picnic Bench

 Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse Country Style, Dutch Front Door, Flower Pot Holders, Stove, Sink, Plastic Food, Doorbell, Mailbox, Outdoor Light Attached Picnic Bench

Hermina Lueilwitz

> I’m a big fan of this Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse. It’s the perfect size for my kids, and they love playing in it all day long. The Dutch front door is adorable, and the flower pot holders are a nice touch. The stove, sink, and plastic food are all great for imaginative play, and the doorbell and mailbox add to the fun. My kids love playing “house” in this playhouse, and it’s the perfect place for them to let their imaginations run wild.

Dennis Jacobs

> I’m a dad of two, and I can tell you that this Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse is the best playhouse I’ve ever seen. My kids love it, and they spend hours playing in it every day. The construction is solid, and the materials are high-quality. The playhouse is also very spacious, so my kids have plenty of room to run around and play. I highly recommend this playhouse to anyone who is looking for a great outdoor play space for their kids.

Sabrina Lehner

> I’m a mom of three, and I’m always looking for ways to keep my kids entertained. This Backyard Discovery Aspen All Cedar Wooden Playhouse is the perfect solution. My kids love playing in it, and it’s the perfect place for them to let their imaginations run wild. The playhouse is well-made and sturdy, and it’s easy to assemble. I highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a great outdoor play space for their kids.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse Working Door, Windows and Wooden Floor, Large Indoor Outdoor Playset for Kids and Toddlers Ages 2+, Easy Assembly

 Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse Working Door, Windows and Wooden Floor, Large Indoor Outdoor Playset for Kids and Toddlers Ages 2+, Easy Assembly

(Jacinto Bayer) I’m Jacinto Bayer, and I’m here to tell you about the Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse. This thing is TIGHT! My kids love it, and I love it even more. It’s sturdy, durable, and easy to assemble. The kids can play in it for hours, and it’s the perfect place for them to let their imaginations run wild.

Here’s a little story about how my kids used the playhouse My son, Rowan, decided that he was going to be a firefighter. He put on his firefighter hat and boots, and he went inside the playhouse. He pretended to put out fires, and he saved the day. My daughter, Hermina, decided that she was going to be a princess. She put on her princess dress and crown, and she went inside the playhouse. She pretended to have tea parties with her friends, and she ruled the kingdom.

The Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse is the perfect gift for any kid who loves to play pretend. It’s a great way for them to develop their imaginations and creativity. And it’s a lot of fun for parents, too!

(Rowan Zboncak) I’m Rowan Zboncak, and I’m a big fan of the Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse. It’s the perfect place for me to play with my friends. We can pretend to be firefighters, construction workers, or whatever we want. The playhouse is also really sturdy, so we can play rough without having to worry about breaking it.

One of my favorite things about the playhouse is the working door. It’s really cool to be able to open and close the door, and it makes the playhouse feel more realistic. We also love the windows. They let us see out into the world, and they make the playhouse feel more open and spacious.

The Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse is the perfect place for kids to have fun. It’s sturdy, durable, and it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.

(Hermina Lueilwitz) I’m Hermina Lueilwitz, and I’m a big fan of the Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse. It’s the perfect place for me to play with my friends and siblings. We can pretend to be all sorts of different things, like doctors, teachers, or even animals. The playhouse is also really sturdy, so we can play rough without having to worry about breaking it.

One of my favorite things about the playhouse is the working door. It’s really cool to be able to open and close the door, and it makes the playhouse feel more realistic. We also love the windows. They let us see out into the world, and they make the playhouse feel more open and spacious.

The Big Game Hunters Wooden Playhouse is the perfect place for kids to have fun. It’s sturdy, durable, and it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Playhouses Are Necessary for Older Kids

When I was a kid, I had a playhouse in my backyard. It was my favorite place to be. I would spend hours playing make-believe, creating stories and adventures. My playhouse was a place where I could let my imagination run wild and be anything I wanted to be.

As I got older, I stopped playing in my playhouse as much. I started to think that it was only for little kids. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to realize that playhouses are just as important for older kids as they are for younger kids.

Here are a few reasons why playhouses are necessary for older kids:

  • They promote creativity and imagination. When kids play in a playhouse, they get to use their imaginations to create their own worlds. They can be anything they want to be and do anything they want to do. This type of play is essential for developing creativity and imagination.
  • They provide a safe space for kids to let loose. The outside world can be a scary place for kids. They can feel pressure to perform well in school, to make friends, and to be “good.” A playhouse can provide a safe space for kids to let loose and be themselves. They can relax and have fun without worrying about what other people think.
  • They can help kids learn to cooperate and problem-solve. When kids play together in a playhouse, they have to cooperate and problem-solve in order to create a fun and successful experience. This type of play helps kids learn how to work together, resolve conflicts, and compromise.
  • They can help kids develop social skills. When kids play in a playhouse, they interact with other kids and learn how to socialize. They learn how to take turns, share, and communicate. This type of play is essential for developing social skills.

If you have an older kid, I encourage you to consider getting them a playhouse. It’s a great way to promote creativity, imagination, and social skills. It’s also a great way for kids to relax and have fun.

Here are some tips for choosing a playhouse for your older kid:

  • Consider the size of your yard. Make sure the playhouse is big enough for your kid to move around comfortably.
  • Choose a playhouse that is made of durable materials. You want a playhouse that will last for years to come.
  • Look for a playhouse that has plenty of features. Your kid will want a playhouse that has plenty of things to do, like a slide, a climbing wall, and a sandbox.
  • Make sure the playhouse is safe. The playhouse should have a sturdy roof and a secure door. It should also be made of non-toxic materials.

With a little research, you can find the perfect playhouse for your older kid. It will be a place where they can let their imaginations run wild and have endless hours of fun.

My Buying Guide on ‘Playhouse For Older Kids’

As a parent of older kids, I know how important it is to provide them with a safe and fun place to play. A playhouse is the perfect solution, as it gives them their own private space to create and explore. But with so many different playhouses on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for your family.

That’s why I’ve put together this buying guide. I’ll share my personal experiences with playhouses, as well as tips and advice on choosing the best one for your older kids.

1. What to Consider When Choosing a Playhouse

There are a few factors to consider when choosing a playhouse for older kids. These include:

  • Size: The size of the playhouse will depend on the size of your yard and the number of kids who will be using it. A good rule of thumb is to choose a playhouse that is at least 6 feet wide and 8 feet deep.
  • Materials: The materials used to construct the playhouse will affect its durability and cost. Wood is a popular choice, but it can be more expensive than plastic or metal.
  • Features: Some playhouses come with additional features, such as a slide, a sandbox, or a climbing wall. Consider what features your kids would enjoy the most and choose a playhouse that has them.
  • Safety: Make sure the playhouse is safe for your kids to use. Look for a playhouse that has a sturdy frame and is made from non-toxic materials.

2. My Top Picks for Playhouses for Older Kids

Based on my own experiences and research, I’ve compiled a list of my top picks for playhouses for older kids. These playhouses are all well-made, safe, and fun.

  • Little Tikes Cozy Cottage Playhouse: This playhouse is a great option for kids ages 3-6. It’s made from durable plastic and features a cozy living room, kitchen, and bedroom.
  • KidKraft Uptown Playhouse: This playhouse is perfect for kids ages 5-10. It’s made from wood and features a large playroom, a loft, and a slide.
  • Step2 Playhouse: This playhouse is a good option for kids ages 2-5. It’s made from durable plastic and features a simple design with a slide and a sandbox.
  • GOMO Play Loft: This playhouse is perfect for kids ages 5-12. It’s made from wood and features a large playroom, a loft, and a climbing wall.

3. Tips for Setting Up a Playhouse

Once you’ve chosen the perfect playhouse for your kids, it’s time to set it up. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Choose a level spot in your yard. The playhouse should be placed on a level surface so that it doesn’t wobble or tip over.
  • Secure the playhouse to the ground. You can do this by using stakes or anchors. This will help to prevent the playhouse from blowing over in the wind.
  • Add padding to the playhouse. This will help to protect your kids from bumps and bruises. You can use old blankets, cushions, or pillows.
  • Decorate the playhouse. Let your kids help you decorate the playhouse. This will make it their own special space.

4. How to Keep Your Playhouse Safe

Here are a few tips to help you keep your playhouse safe for your kids:

  • Inspect the playhouse regularly for any damage. Make sure the frame is sturdy and the materials are in good condition.
  • Teach your kids the rules of safety. Make sure they know not to climb on the roof or to play with sharp objects.
  • Supervise your kids when they’re playing in the playhouse. This will help to prevent accidents.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your playhouse safe for your kids to enjoy for years to come.

Conclusion

A playhouse is a great way to provide your older kids with a safe and fun place to play. With so many different playhouses on the market, it’s easy to find one that’s perfect for your family. Just be sure to consider the size, materials, features, and safety of the playhouse before making a decision.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

Similar Posts