How to Build a Playhouse
Playhouse is a fun way for kids to be creative, explore their imaginations and interact with others. Playing house isn’t just about having fun, it also helps children develop important skills like problem solving and socializing. In today’s digital world where kids spend most of their time watching TV or playing iPad and PS games, it is essential to pull them off the sofa and encourage physical activity and creative play. Adding an indoor playhouse is one of the best ways to do that.
There are many different types of playhouses, from classic wooden structures to plastic versions that are easy to assemble and easy to store. Each type of playhouse has its pros and cons, so it is important to find the right one for your family. For example, wooden playhouses tend to be more durable than plastic ones, but they can be expensive and require more maintenance over the years.
Another consideration when choosing a playhouse is whether you want an outdoor or indoor structure. Outdoor playhouses are great for promoting active and imaginative play, but they can be susceptible to weather conditions. Indoor playhouses, on the other hand, allow children to play even when it is raining or very hot.
To build an outdoor child’s playhouse, you will need a good supply of building materials. You will also need to make sure the structure is sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of children and the elements. To start, you will need to build the floor of the house. Use pressure treated decking for the floor boards, and tack strips of roofing felt between the boards and joists to eliminate squeaks. Then, fasten the board to the joists with galvanized screws.
Once the floor is in place, you will need to build the walls of the house. For the siding, you can use treated lumber or plywood. To save money, you can also use chicken wire or corrugated metal for the walls of your playhouse. However, you will need to ensure that the wire or metal is not sharp and that it does not pose a hazard to your children.
After the walls are in place, you will need to install windows and doors. The doors and windows should be securely attached to the joists using wood screws, and caulk can be used to seal any cracks. You should also consider installing a window awning if your playhouse is in an area that receives high winds.
Once you have your playhouse in place, you can add accessories to help your children enhance their make-believe play sessions. For example, you could hang a chalkboard wall or a homemade painting, or add kid-sized furniture to the space. You can also string up lights or lay down an outdoor rug to make the playhouse feel more cozy and inviting. These accessories will inspire your children’s creativity and imagination and encourage them to act out everyday activities or imagined stories.