Creating a playroom for your little ones is an exciting endeavor, but it can be overwhelming to know where to start. From decor to organization to the toys you include, there are endless options to consider. That's why we've put together a list of essential playroom must-haves to help you create a well-rounded space where your kids can play, learn, and grow.
11 Essential Playroom Must-Haves
1) Areas for Pretend Play
Children have vivid imaginations, and pretend play is crucial for nurturing their creativity. It offers numerous benefits, including helping kids learn to interact with others in different ways, exploring various roles, and practicing social skills like sharing and problem-solving. By designating specific areas for pretend play in your playroom, you can encourage your child's imagination to thrive and provide them with countless hours of fun and development.
Some ideas you could use for pretend play areas:
2) Art Supplies
A craft area with ample art supplies is another essential playroom must-have. Watching your child's creativity blossom through art is a joy, and there are countless projects they can do, from painting to sensory bottle creations. To optimize space, consider using a rolling cart to store your toddler's craft supplies. It's compact, easily movable, and keeps everything organized in one place.
3) Child-Sized Table & Chairs
Investing in a table and chair set for your little one is an excellent way to encourage their learning and independence. It provides them with a space to engage in quieter activities like drawing, homework, or enjoying meals. Moreover, having a table their size allows children to take pride in their activities and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
4) Options for Gross Motor Play
Gross motor play, which involves physical activities that use large muscles like walking, running, throwing, and jumping, is vital for children's development. Besides being a fun way to burn off energy, it also helps improve coordination, strength, and balance. Consider incorporating indoor gross motor play options to keep your little ones active, especially during colder seasons.
Some ideas for indoor gross motor play:
5) Items for Sensory Play
Sensory play, which encourages exploration using the senses, is an excellent way for children to learn and engage. You can create a sensory table using an IKEA Flisat table or purchase pre-made sensory bins for your kids to explore. Including items like Play-Doh, Kinetic Sand, sensory balls, and DIY sensory bottles can provide endless hours of sensory stimulation and fun.
6) A Cozy Reading Nook
Books are an essential part of any playroom. Reading to children offers numerous benefits, including bonding, introducing them to the world of books, and improving their vocabulary and reading skills. Create a cozy reading nook by using cube storage shelves and floating shelves to display books. Add cushions or pillows for comfort and enjoy snuggling up with your little ones for storytime.
7) Playroom Seating for Adults
Consider the age of your children, the size of your playroom, and how often adults will be spending time in the space when deciding whether to include adult seating. If your play area is attached to or near your living room or family room, you may not need specific adult seating. However, if you have a separate playroom, ensure the seating is comfortable and safe for both kids and adults.
8) A Calming Corner
A calming corner is a designated space free from stimuli like sounds and bright lights. It should include materials that allow children to calm down, such as cozy pillows, soft beanbags, blankets, books about emotions, stuffed animals, stress balls, and art supplies. Having a calming corner helps children manage their emotions and practice social and emotional skills.
9) Open-Ended Playroom Toys
When selecting toys for your playroom, consider open-ended options. These toys don't have a predefined end goal and can be used in various ways, providing children with the freedom to use their imagination and creativity. Examples of open-ended toys include building blocks, duplos or legos, magnatiles, dress-up clothes, a play kitchen, dolls, a dollhouse, and stuffed animals.
10) Quality Playroom Storage
Once you have all your playroom must-haves, it's essential to have an organization strategy to keep the space tidy and easily accessible. Storage shelves, particularly cube shelving, offer a practical and versatile solution. Display some toys on the shelves and use storage bins to hide other items. Additionally, consider using storage ottomans and clear boxes to enhance organization in your playroom.
11) Artwork & Decor
Adding artwork and decor to your play space adds the finishing touches and brings the room to life. Look for printable options on platforms like Etsy that fit your playroom theme. Include a place to display your child's artwork, such as frames or a magnetic board, to showcase their creations and boost their confidence.
Now that you have the inspiration and ideas for creating a well-rounded playroom, you're ready to embark on this exciting project. Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect. Your children will love and thrive in whatever space you create. From a small playroom to a designated play area in a larger room, these playroom must-haves will help you create the best play environment for your child.