How To Choose A Wooden Playhouse

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Wooden playhouses are a part of every child's dream life, from little girls who want gingerbread cottages to little boys who want to pretend they have a military base in the backyard. With dozens of styles to choose from, you can find your little one's perfect play home by keeping a few things in mind.

First, how old is the child? Because these structures can be expensive, you want to choose one that will last your child for years if possible. A small child should have a playhouse that is sized comfortably for him or her, with options allowing you to resize, move, or add on parts as the child grows. Older children should have playhouses that give more active options, like slides or climbing walls, and parts that provide a challenge for their growing arms and legs.Modular playhouses are often the best overall choice, giving you the flexibility to choose smaller houses and adding on to them as your child grows.

Does your child prefer activity or quiet play? Lots of friends or just a couple? Does he or she engage in highly imaginative games? The same wooden playhouse can be a pirate ship, a castle, a mansion, a witch's cottage, or a prison, depending on the child. Try to choose a playhouse that allows for the most options, with enough space for your child's friends. Make sure active children have plenty of options besides climbing on the roof or other dangerous forms of play.

How much space do you have in your backyard, and how permanent should your child's playhouse be? A good playhouse with attached structures should never take up more than a quarter of your child's open backyard play area; larger than that, and there is not enough space for the child to make those imaginative adjustments to transform a house into a castle. Also, how much maintenance and upkeep will the outdoor playhouse you've chosen require? Never purchase one that requires more work than you are willing to put into it.

Should your wooden playhouse match your own house? Some charming backyards have been perfected with playhouses that are miniature versions of the adjacent home. This is not a requirement, but playhouses that are harmonious with your home are always nice. A permanent playhouse that complements the house can even add to your property's desirability to make it easier to sell in the future.

The best wooden playhouses are those that both you and your child love. Because this structure is almost always a permanent addition, choosing the right one the first time around is critical. Take some time, shop around, and don't be afraid of spending a little extra for the perfect dream home - or fort - for your little one.