Playhouses: What are they and what do children learn from them?
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A playhouse is a hut where children can play. One of the most popular types of playhouses are wooden playhouses. But what exactly is a wooden playhouse?
In this article you can read everything about playhouses and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.
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What exactly is a playhouse?
A playhouse is a small house specially designed for children to play in. It provides a safe and protected space where children can let their imagination run wild. Playhouses are available in different shapes, sizes, materials and prices, so that parents can find a playhouse that suits their own needs and budget.
Why are playhouses so much fun for children?
Children love playhouses because they have their own place to play and retreat. It gives them a sense of freedom and independence. In addition, a playhouse also offers opportunities to play and discover together. It stimulates children's creativity and imagination and keeps them active.
What are the main features of a playhouse?
A playhouse must first and foremost be safe for children to play in. In addition, it must be large enough so that children can play and move comfortably in it. The material from which the playhouse is made is also important, as it must suit the environment and climate. In addition, it is important to look at the age of the child and the possibilities that the playhouse offers.
What types of playhouses are available?
There are different types of playhouses available, from simple to extensive and from simple to complex. Below you will find a number of well-known types of playhouses:
- Treehouse: A playhouse built into a tree
- Sloping roof: a playhouse with a sloping roof
- Poles: a playhouse that stands on poles
- Closed: a playhouse that is completely closed
- Open: a playhouse that is open on all sides
- Combination: a playhouse consisting of several parts, such as a slide or swing
What should you pay attention to when choosing a playhouse?
When choosing a playhouse, it is important to think carefully about the right size, material and price in advance. In addition, you have to take into account the age of the child and the possibilities that the playhouse offers. It is also important to look at the environment where the playhouse will be placed and whether it fits in with the rest of the garden. It is also good to look at well-known brands and the experiences of other people.
What do children learn from playing in a playhouse?
A playhouse is not only a place where children can play, it also offers a place for personal development. For example, children learn to play together with friends. This playing together is important for the social development of children. They learn to take each other into account, to share and to communicate. Children also learn to take responsibility for their own toys and to tidy up when they are done playing.
Role playing and imagination
A playhouse offers children the opportunity to use their imagination and role-play. For example, children can play a shop and make a menu with markers. They can also play a restaurant and serve their friends. Through these role plays, children learn to pretend and to imagine themselves in another role. This is good for the development of their empathy.
Observing nature
A playhouse in the garden also offers children the opportunity to observe nature. For example, they can watch birds and insects and learn about their living environment. This is not only fun, but also educational. Children learn about nature in this way and develop a sense of respect for their environment.
Touch and supervision
A playhouse also offers children the opportunity to touch and use different things. For example, they can open and close the door, open and close the windows, and use the bell. This is good for the development of their motor skills. It is important to supervise children when they play in a playhouse, so that they can play safely.
In short, playing in a playhouse offers children the opportunity to learn and develop in different areas. It is a fun and educational way to spend time and enjoy nature. So what are you waiting for? Schedule a playhouse play date for the kids on November 19!
The different types of outdoor playhouses
Wooden playhouses are a popular choice for parents looking for a durable and sturdy playhouse for their children. They are built to last and can take a beating. Wooden playhouses are available in different shapes and designs, from simple models with only a wicket door to elaborate models with sand elements and sand tables. The maintenance of wooden playhouses is important, because they must be treated regularly to prevent them from breaking.
Sand play equipment
Sand play equipment is a nice addition to a playhouse in the garden. They give children the opportunity to play with sand and use their imagination to build sand castles, sand cakes and sand hoists. Sand play equipment is available in various shapes and designs, from simple models with only a sandpit to elaborate models with sand tables and sand elements. They offer children a pleasant sensory experience and contribute to their development.
Shops and kiosks
Shops and kiosks are a nice addition to a playhouse in the garden. They give children the opportunity to play with toys and use their imagination to run their own shop or kiosk. Shops and kiosks come in a variety of shapes and designs, from simple counter-only models to elaborate models with seating and toys. They offer children the opportunity to spend their free time in a fun and educational way.
Back to nature
Some think it is important that children come into contact with nature and that is why playhouses are available that look very natural. These playhouses are built with sturdy posts and often have a wood-colored finish. Thanks to the natural look, these playhouses fit well in any garden. They are available in different shapes and designs, from simple models to elaborate models with sand elements and sand tables. The maintenance of these playhouses is important, because they must be treated regularly to prevent them from breaking.
Crazy and striking playhouses
For some children, a playhouse really needs to stand out and that is why playhouses are available in crazy shapes and brighter colors. These playhouses are often equipped with fun elements, such as slides and climbing walls. They are available in different shapes and designs, from simple models to elaborate models with sand elements and sand tables. As with other playhouses, the maintenance of these playhouses is important, because they must be treated regularly to prevent them from breaking.
Playhouses for the winter
Even in winter, children like to play outside, which is why playhouses are available that are suitable for all weather conditions. These playhouses are often equipped with extra insulation and can be equipped with heating. They are available in different shapes and designs, from simple models to elaborate models with sand elements and sand tables. As with other playhouses, the maintenance of these playhouses is important, because they must be treated regularly to prevent them from breaking.
The main difference between playhouses
The main difference between playhouses is the material they are made of. Wooden playhouses are more durable and robust than plastic playhouses, but require more maintenance. Plastic playhouses are easier to maintain, but they are less robust and can look less attractive. Sand play equipment offers children a pleasant sensory experience and contributes to their development. Shops and kiosks give children the opportunity to play with toys and use their imagination to run their own shop or kiosk. Playhouses that look very natural fit well into any garden and offer children the opportunity to get in touch with nature. Crazy and eye-catching playhouses are a nice addition to the garden and offer children the opportunity to play with fun elements, such as slides
Materials for playhouses: Which ones are suitable?
A playhouse is a great way to provide children with hours of fun. But when looking for the best playhouse for your children, it is important to know which materials are used and which are most suitable for your situation. In this section we will discuss the different materials used for playhouses and which brands offer them.
Materials
There are so many materials to choose from when deciding on the type of playhouse you want. Below you will find a list of the most well-known materials used for playhouses in the Netherlands:
- Wood: Wood is one of the most commonly used materials for playhouses. It is natural and gives a warm look to the house. Wooden playhouses are easier to adapt in terms of design and there are so many possibilities. Think of coated wood, preserved wood and untreated wood. It is important to know that certain types of wood are better suited for outdoor use than others. Robinia, for example, is a reliable type of wood that can withstand the elements.
- Plastic: Plastic is another popular material for playhouses. It is durable and easy to clean. Plastic playhouses are often colorful and have a modern look and feel. The disadvantage of plastic is that it looks less natural than wood.
- Metal: Metal is not commonly used for playhouses, but it can be a good choice if you are looking for a sturdy and durable house. For example, stainless steel is a material that is often used for playhouses.
Brands
There are various brands that playhouses (here we reviewed the best) offer in the Netherlands. Below you will find a list of the most famous brands:
- AXI: AXI offers a wide range of playhouses, from wooden houses to plastic houses. They also have various accessories such as slides and climbing nets that you can connect the house to.
- Backyard: Backyard specializes in wooden playhouses and offers different models suitable for different ages.
How do you maintain an outdoor playhouse?
A playhouse in the garden is fun for children to play in and discover. But to ensure that the playhouse stays beautiful and lasts a long time, it is important to maintain it properly. By carrying out regular maintenance, you prevent the playhouse from being damaged by wind and weather. Good maintenance also ensures that the playhouse always looks nice and beautiful for the children to play in.
What types of playhouses are there and how does maintenance depend on them?
There are many types of outdoor playhouses, from plastic to wooden playhouses. The maintenance of a playhouse depends on the material it is made of. For example, plastic playhouses are often easier to clean and require less maintenance than wooden playhouses. Wooden playhouses, on the other hand, often require more maintenance to ensure that they remain beautiful and are not damaged by wind and weather.
How do you maintain a plastic playhouse?
A plastic playhouse generally requires little maintenance. It is often easy to clean with soap and water. If there are stains on it that are difficult to remove, you can use an extensive cleaner. The advantage of a plastic playhouse is that it does not need to be painted and that it is not susceptible to mould.
Additional winter maintenance tips
In winter, a playhouse outside has more to endure than in summer. Below you will find a number of extra tips for the maintenance of a playhouse in the winter:
- Remove the toys from the playhouse and store them in the house.
- Make sure that no water remains in the playhouse, as this can freeze and damage the wood.
- Treat the wood additionally with a protective layer to protect it from the cold and moisture.
- Regularly check whether the playhouse is still in good condition and repair any damage.
When should you replace the playhouse?
Some playhouses last longer than others, depending on the quality and maintenance. If the playhouse is no longer safe to play in or if it is no longer beautiful, it may be time to replace it. It is important to look at the personal experience and choice of the parents. Some would like a new playhouse, while others would like to keep and refurbish the old playhouse. The difference depends on the time, space and budget you have.
Conclusion
It is important to know what a playhouse is and what it is for. A playhouse is a small house specially designed for children to play. It offers a safe protected space where children can let their imagination run wild.
If you are a child, it is important to know that a playhouse must be safe to play with and that you must maintain it. It is also important to know that you should choose the playhouse that suits your age and your imagination.
Also read: this is the best toy for playhouses
Always something to do for the holidays or rainy day?
Play Choice now has the ultimate activity book collection, with over 60 pages of fun coloring pages and educational puzzles.
Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.