Sunday, July 12, 2009

Kids Toys - Automoblox

Design your own by mixing parts! This three pack of Mini Automoblox includes a red C9 Sportscar, a blue S9 Sedan, and a green T9 Pickup. The great thing about having more than one is that you can mix and match parts and pieces to create a car of your own design! Each measure approximately 3" long. Automoblox have an excellent play value! Around age 3 they will enjoy pushing around their car and becoming familiar with it.

At ages 4 - 5, they will enjoy learning that they can take apart the car and put it back together as many times as they like. By age 6 they will enjoy a sense of accomplishment as they realize that parts from all cars are interchangeable and they can create their own designs.

All the while, they will be reaping the benefits of learning creative problem solving, practicing gross and fine motor skills, and visual spacial processing. Ages: 3+ $34.00 Who doesn't like toy cars, seriously, it's almost like lego. The main body of the cars are made of wood, the rest is plastic, its all enterchangeable, so you can make like Limos, and space cars its totally groovy man.
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Monday, July 6, 2009

The Benefits of Music - Kids

Music has also been shown to help children academically. Children who play instruments and are involved in extra-curricular activities often do much better in school than those who don't. The counting involved with playing an instrument, and especially the ability to read music, often gives children an advantage in mathematical courses. The ability to read notes is especially relevant and advantageous when fractions are introduced in math classes. The ability to play and read will translate into enhanced academic ability as well.

Another benefit is the lifelong ability music will give your child. From playing on toy pianos, to playing at concert halls, from playing around a circle of friends on kids furniture, to a circle of society's elite at a prestigious venue, you never know where it will take your child. Music is a great gift to give because the ability to play an instrument will stay with them forever.

Overall, music is a great way to inspire your children and give them an academic and artistic advantage. Whether you start you kids playing toy pianos when they are young around a groups of pals on kids furniture, or you give them voice lessons and they sing in the school play, music will give them the confidence and abilities to life a rich, fulfilling life with artistic skills that not everyone is lucky enough to possess.

Jennifer Boris is a freelance copywriter. For more information on Toy Pianos, visit Best Price Toys.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Boris

Monday, June 29, 2009

Play Types

hildren’s play is rich, varied, organic and constantly evolving. It can explore different types at the same time, flow from one to another and back again. As such, these definitions are by adults, for adults. They’re useful in helping us be more specific when we’re talking about play and play provision but will only ever capture a narrow aspect of the wealth of children’s play. This list is also evolving and should not be assumed to ever be complete.

There has also been controversy over the years about the last play type, Recapitulative. It is left off of some lists entirely but I have included it here (in spite of my own hesitations) because it addresses forms of play not found elsewhere in the list and because this controversy ought to be openly engaged with.More..

Friday, June 26, 2009

Child's Play Stations

Once upon a time, the school holidays were heralded by the smell of freshly mown grass, the sound of the ice-cream man and a feeling of time unbound, carefree days that stretched on forever. Today, we know the school holidays are here because there's an influx of aggressively hyped animated movies at the cinema and their accompanying games fighting for attention on the shelf.

It's a shift in perspective rather than reality and ever since my son first voluntarily picked up a joypad at the age of two, I've been fascinated by the way he plays games, the things he responds to in games, and the surprisingly frequent parallels with my own first gaming experiences. I'm old enough to remember being intensely jealous that a friend had a ZX-81, with its chunky monochrome blocks, while my son will probably grow up harbouring similar nostalgic fondness for the innocent days of the Xbox 360, when games were only high-definition and had to be purchased on funny silver discs. The games that tickle our fancy, however, aren't all that different.more...

Play Areas in the Garden

The best children’s gardens are those that have the play areas integrated into the larger garden, as well as providing hiding places for kids (that you can still see, of course). Try making a teepee out of long poles and twine that can then be covered by climbing plants. Or you could create a “room” by planting a circle of plants of flowers with an opening in the middle. Some child sized furniture in the middle will really top it off.



Kids love to use the garden so don’t make it difficult for them to do so. Place a container outside that can hold all of their toys such as skipping ropes, balls, and sports equipment. A well-maintained lawn is a must and an area of the garden that the kids will always use. this could be for simple “chasey” type games or for games of soccer, football, cricket, etc.



Trampolines, swing sets, sand pits, slides, and climbing equipment are classic backyard additions that every child will love. Ensure their safety by placing the equipment carefully and installing soft surfaces below. Also make sure that the play equipment is located in an area that has shade. No child wants to play on plastic or metal equipment when it has been baked hot by the sun.

Playground Equipment Australia

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Playground Equipment for Kids

You ensure that you install the equipment which is appropriate to the age of your children. Check all spaces open in the equipment.

The playset should have well defined playing fields which are assured safety. For example, you wouldn 't want a child slipping in bottom of the right-hand side in front of another child going up to the top another part of the playset.

By locating the equipment in your court, should have to you a zone of fall of 6 feet in all the directions. This would mean that the sector around your playset should be free from all the obstacles, such as barriers or bushes or hard surfaces, such as the pavements which could lead to worse damage in the event of fall. Also check the pointed objects, such as branches or stakes in the ground.

Playground Equipments

Monday, June 22, 2009

How to Understand Kids

Other parents give them the silent treatment. Since they do not want to speak to them, they do the same. More often than not, kids actually tell their parents what's happening in their lives with this. They sometimes want to tell stories to their parents about what's been going on but the parents also don't seem to want to listen. As parents, you should always have time for them no matter how busy you are.

Understanding kids may take time and there are also instances that you think that you really know them but you discover that you don't. Some parents bribe their children with kids toys just to be updated. Sometimes, children open up, sometimes they don't.

Play Equipment


Fun Kids Toys

Let's face it, kids today are harder to understand because they sometimes would not open up to adults. They seem to have their own little world and it seems as if adults are non-existent beings. There are parents that have given up in making their kid/s open up to them but they still wouldn't budge. So you think on what can you do to make your child do otherwise.

You can tell them that whatever secret they have is safe with you. Show them that you are a person that they can trust and that you are not their enemy. Assurance is the key in being able to let them open up to you. Also, just letting them know that you will not leave them is enough to comfort them.

playground equipment
Kids Furniture

Fun Activities for Kids

I always favor toys for children that are open ended. By that I mean the results are not predetermined. For example on a television set the images and the story unfold instantaneously before your eyes and nothing is left to the imagination. Ever heard the old saying? "Yeah I like the movie but the book was better." Well these toys are the original stories behind the mass produced tripe that lines the toy aisles of department store these days!

Lego
This is amazing and ranks very highly for me in terms of creativity. Our top lego activities at the moment are all space based with rockets being the most popular. But we have had a lego bakery with an eskimo theme and a crocodile for the baker, many different zoos, castles, bridges, cars, houses, and even a lego rollercoaster!

Toy Cars
In the dirt, on the mat, in the sand, in the bath and even up the wall. Cars are busy everywhere in our house some days! Although there is often a lot of crashing going on my kids have recently discovered the joy of constructing jumps and once this happens, the play moves to a whole new level of exciting.

The Bug Catcher
Dun dun... Yep moving right along to scientific studies now and there seems to be nothing more riveting that the capture of an insect.

Puppets
I love the dialogue that sneeks out from behind the wings of the puppet theatre during rehearsals. Talk about giggle... but puppets don't have to be conventional, we recently made some very lovely puppets from brown paper bags and you know often the more restricted the materials the more imaginative you become.

Dolls
Well yes I had to mention it because they are quite open ended... Barbies. The activities that I love to see kids doing with Barbies are the role playing ones where the content is really positive.

Dress Ups
Whether it's my clothes or Daddy's the fun is always on in the land of dress ups and you can extend this play to fashion parades and relay games, sewing activities and birthday party themes! This is an age old favorite for sure.

Kids Toys :

Kids Birthday Parties Places

Kids birthday parties are special occasions for family, friends and the star of the party. Choosing a location can be tricky. Will it fit your budget? Do you want an inside or outside location? Is it accessible and easy to get to for your family and the other invitees? Think of the party activities your child will want. Does she prefer indoor party games? Does he like sports and want outdoor party games? This can help you pick the perfect party spot.

If it's a smaller party, you can have it at home, inside or out in the yard. Yards are great for BBQ's with hot dogs and hamburgers. Add some chips, pretzels and soda, and you have a nice inexpensive party.

If you have a pool, swim parties allow the kids to cool off if it's hot outside. If you don't have a pool, consider a lake or beach near your home.

Another option is a local park, complete with picnic tables, volleyball nets, swing sets and areas that children can play. These areas often have grills so bring some hot dogs and hamburgers.

If your city has a waterpark, this is great fun for the kids as well. Once again, there's usually pavilions or areas to have a picnic lunch once the partiers are done playing on the water slides. Inform the other parents beforehand on the cost. Maybe one will want to accompany the party group.

An amusement park is also a good idea. Kids can ride their favorite rides then gather together for some good food and birthday cake. Make sure the parents of the attendees know the cost of the park rides so each child can pay his own way.

Kids love pizza! Rent out a room at your favorite pizza parlor. It's extra special if the pizza place has video games or other kid games to play.more....

Outdoor Toys For Healthy Kids

In an age when more and more children are spending most of their time inside in front of the television or computer, finding ways to encourage your kids to spend time outside playing actively should be a real priority. Exercise and fun outside at an early age are important to health and the development of good habits, and they'll help your kids burn off some of that extra energy, too. Of course, just going outside into an empty yard with nothing to do can be pretty boring. That's why there are so many great outdoor toys to choose from on the market.

From little babies who are just discovering the world of the outdoors to older kids who still want to play, there are all kinds of great outdoor toys. If you choose yours carefully, you don't have to worry about getting too many - look for toys that your kids are really going to play with, instead of the ones that are just a passing fancy. Buying toys meant specifically to be used outdoors will help your kids stay entertained, let them release some of that extra energy, and keep the toys in better condition than if you'd just used indoor toys and taken them outdoors.

Wooden and plastic playhouse are great fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty of playhouses available for children from toddlers to middle schoolers, with appropriate sizing and safety measures. For playing house, private clubhouses and lots more, these are a lot of fun and will last many years. Climbing frames and jungle gyms can also be a lot of fun.more...

Durable Kids Toys For Your Child

What happened to toys that last? If you are over 50 then perhaps you remember that the toys you had as a child lasted many years. Even those that are in their mid to late 30's may even still have one or two toys from childhood that they can pass down to their kids. But how many children's toys do you see today that you can say the same to?



With the every growing need for higher profits and lower spending, most often you will find that toy you buy your child is made in some other country like China. But what kind of quality are those kids toys? And although plastic can take many years to break down, the structure is often compromised quickly and rendered useless. Furthermore, with the electronic age, expecting your digital toy to last a few generations is just not going to happen.



Purchasing cheaper made toys is fine for a family with only one or two children, as long as they don't care about how long they last, but what about the larger family? I know a family that has five boys ranging in age from two to twelve. They understand the need for longer lasting toys like wooden toys, or other sturdy built items. What they have discovered is although money always seems tight, they know what they bought for their first child will still be around for their fifth. However, finding the right kind of safe wooden toy is very important.



What makes a toy attractive to a young child? If you have a beautiful wooden truck or pull along toy, what a child likes and needs to see is some color. The perfect children's toys are brightly colored. These wonderful wooden play things will allow for many hours of fun for your children and last long enough so that all of your children can enjoy them. However, you must be careful that the paint used doesn't have any traces of lead or other harmful chemicals.



The best way to do this is to check the product label, or if you're painting it yourself, check the label on the paint to ensure it is child safe. Most young children will not only play with their toy, but also check out how it tastes and feels in their mouth. Therefore, in order to have safe wooden toys, either purchases them from a company that specialized in these types of toys or paints them yourself.......Article Source

Saturday, June 20, 2009

The Theory of Cubby House

I have a theory about cubby houses. I am indeed refering to those magnificant inpentrible structures we engineered as small humans that protected us from monsters, boogie men and siblings. What they really did is created a small kingdom which we could monitor, control and call our own.

All of the happenings in our little kingdoms were known. What this did in our minds is to isolate us, it was a space we had conqured and protected. Our thoughts turn internal. The ongoing homework, chores and aliens were not here in this cubby house, just us in our own little kingdom. Perhaps it was just funky to close the world off?

I don’t think we have changed much as adults, we don’t of coarse build the forts of folded newspaper, bed sheets or card board boxes but we still have our cubby holes. What do I mean? well let me explain. Let’s look at the cubby house/fort/kingdom as partial sensory deprivation. We can’t see as much of the environment around us, perhaps can’t hear it. Maybe we just choose not to collect data from some of our keen sensory devices, either way we are somehow isolated.

As adults what situations does this happen in? I think you will find there is a few. Rain is often a good trigger for this feeling, you vs world, isolation etc. Consider driving in heavy rain. There is lots of noise blocking out external sounds, the rain itself blocks some of your vision. It just you and the cabin of the car vs everything outside – your in your cubby hole. Add in some cool tunes and the music sounds more rich, more alive then every before.more...

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Kids Furniture Ideas

When investing in your kids furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind: durability, adaptability and fun. Kids' interests change quickly and they grow just about as fast, so it's important to shop smart. Most kids only need a bed, dresser and a desk with a chair.

You want something that's going to last. Even if your children don't share a room, a bunk bed is nice, because it gives them a place for friends when they spend the night. Dressers are pretty basic, but to add fun to the room, buy a used dresser at a yard sale, strip it, and paint it solid color. Then you can get stencils, decals or stickers and let your child decorate it to fit their taste.

Fun is important to kids. There are many imaginative furniture styles, such as beds shaped like cars or other things.

Friday, June 12, 2009

School playground equipment faces being scrapped

KIDS' play equipment at schools and parks in Moray – paid for by parents after fundraising campaigns – may have to be scrapped if it fails to make the grade.

Concerns over health and safety risks posed to youngsters could force "unauthorised" climbing frames, seesaws and slides to be ripped out.

A review of jungle gyms and other play equipment is being carried out by Moray Council after concerns were raised over the suitability of items bought and installed by the community at Findochty Primary School.

A meeting between parents and council officials was called on Wednesday night by Councillor Anne McKay (Buckie). Villagers heard that a health and safety check had highlighted areas of concern and that although the children have not been stopped from using it in the meantime, it will have to be replaced.more..

Swing Set Safety

Children's swing sets must be properly selected and assembled to prevent serious injury.

Here are recommendations on choosing and assembling a swing set, from the U.S. National Safety Council:

  • Make sure the equipment is very sturdy, and look for sets that can be changed or upgraded to accommodate your child's growth.
  • Secure the legs of the set in below-ground concrete. If you use anchors that come with the set, keep them below ground. Make sure all cables are taut. Cap any screws or bolts.more...

Swing Set on School Roof

Six high school seniors in Brookfield, Wis., will not be at their graduation ceremony because they built a swing set on their school's roof, an official says.

Superintendent Matt Gibson said the Brookfield East High School students were arrested for the senior prank and received three-day suspensions that will include Saturday's graduation event, Milwaukee's WTMJ-TV reported Friday.

Nate Hoaglund, one of the students punished for the prank, insisted the joke did not result in anything being damaged.

The students have asked for a different punishment for their actions so they can still attend their graduation.

"We have people speaking at graduation and relatives flying in, we didn't want to affect the families of the people that wanted to watch the ceremony," Hoaglund told WTMJ-TV.more..

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Expensive Cubby House


3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in this cubby house for just $109,000. Now thats a bargain. But they didnt mention anything about the slide. That would be a selling point in my opinion. Funny Real estate people!

Cubby house project successful

Building and Construction students from Macintyre High School have returned to their younger years and designed and built two magnificent cubby houses using funding and support from the Northern Tablelands Industry and Education Partnership’s Adopt a School program.

Industrial Arts teacher Nick McLoughlin said the program was designed to forge links between school and industry and has helped the students develop skills they will use for life.

“Even if the boys don’t go on to a building or construction related career, they have learnt so many useful skills.

“They wrote up the costs of the project, sourced quotes and fixed any problems they came across, all of these skills will be useful in later life.”

The students split into teams of three to complete different parts of the two cubby houses after they built scale models of what the finished project would look like while in year 9.

Student Josh Warner said building the cubby houses was good fun and has taught him a lot about the practical side of building.

“I don’t know if I would go into construction in the future, but now I will know what to do if I ever need to build anything, big or small.”

Building and Construction was only offered for the first time at Macintyre High School last year but Mr McLoughlin said due to the success the students have had in building their cubby’s, the course would be back again.more..

Friday, June 5, 2009

All about Swing Sets

The seat of swing sets are made of various materials. You can find seats made of flexible canvas, plastic, wood, heavy vinyl, and rubberized tire treads. Any of these will work well for older children. The most ordinary backyard swing set is the use of a wood board that is hung by chain or rope from tree branches. Older children are able to swing high above the ground.

Swing set safety is top priority, it is very important to pull out the owner's manual and review with the children the rules. Children need to understand the rules so everyone can play safe. When shopping for a swing set or play structures make sure all components & accessories are engineered & manufactured to meet or exceed current safety guidelines for residential playground equipment.

PlaySafe Kids are the Distributors and importers of Swings set, Children's Slides, Cubby houses, play centres, playground equipments, Ride-on toys and more direct to the public. For more information visit http://www.playsafekids.com.au

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Safety in the Garden

Kids love to play, but play equipment such as swings, trampolines, and monkey bars can lead to falls so it is a good idea to ensure that there is a soft surface for them to land on such as mulch or a thick lawn. Ensure that play equipment is located away from pathways, patios, or garden edging.

Kids love to use the garden so don’t make it difficult for them to do so. Place a container outside that can hold all of their toys such as skipping ropes, balls, and sports equipment.Trampolines, swing sets, sand pits, slides, and climbing equipment are classic backyard additions that every child will love.

Don’t just stick to the traditional items either. Look for something unique that the kids can play on that may just become a backyard feature in itself. Also make sure that the play equipment is located in an area that has shade. No child wants to play on plastic or metal equipment when it has been baked hot by the sun.

Kids Bedroom Furniture

Growing tots with their peculiar needs and ever-growing minds learn faster than we ever can imagine. It is a good idea to decorate your child’s room to stimulate and inspire creativity. Imagination plays a great role in developing your child’s mind and it is a great idea to fashion kids room to be safe, bright and beautiful to encourage creativity.

Modern kids furniture should evolve around themes that inspire versatility. It is important to look into factors that show equilibrium in terms of style and functionality. Kids toys and accessories should be carefully selected for different age groups for you get toys that fulfill on norms for a particular age. You can come across a plethora of modern kids furniture that is fashionable and trendy.

Kids Chairs and Tables

Kids chairs and tables should be decided after looking into practical details. Does your child need the table for writing and study, or also to keep the computer. Computer workstations for children allow great space functionality with draws and open work area for writing. Chairs should be well-designed allowing the right posture while studying. Look for details while rounding up on the best option. Ask questions as it always helps. You can ask someone about the practical details, someone who has kids and that should be great piece of information.

Monday, June 1, 2009

How to Make Cubby Houses

Do you remember the cubby house you used to have as a kid? The one where you used to have a secret knock and a secret password, just to get inside the front door? The cubby house did not remain a cubby houses for long; not with your imagination! It became a Pirate ship sailing the Seven Seas, or a submarine, exploring places you could not even pronounce because they were imaginary! It was a truck and a sports car, a bus and an aeroplane. There was nothing that darn cubby house could not be.

So, just before your own kids start to drive you to distraction, you decide it would be a wise thing to maintain your sanity, and build them a cubby house of their own.

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Build a Wooden Tree Swing

Studies done at the Human-Environment Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois found that children with access to green outdoor spaces play more creatively, score higher on tests of self discipline and that green views and green activities relieve the symptoms of attention deficit disorder.

Kids Furniture for Small Rooms

People who live in an apartment or in small living quarters are often challenged to find a place for the Kids furniture, toys, and clothing. These space saving tips will help free up space and make the infant's nursery more livable. However, always keep in mind the baby's safety when purchasing furniture and play equipment for the room.

Portable cribs. Standard cribs take up approximately 30" x 54" of floor space. Portable cribs generally run 26" X 40". The difference in tight quarters can certainly help save space in the nursery.

Playards, also known as pack and plays, are another smaller-sized sleeping option. Approximate size range of playards is from 23" X 32" to 30" X 41". Parents might find a playard that makes a perfect fit in a smaller room.

Cribs with drawer space. Parents will appreciate cribs that have built in under-the-bed storage drawers. Sheets, clothing, and other items can be nicely tucked away in what might have been dead space.

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Outdoor Play Equipment

While a tyre swing (a tyre tied to a branch by rope) may have been great for you as a child, today's safety standards mean that homemade playground equipment like this is not recommended. This is because you don't know what the branch is able to take weight-wise, and children could fall or be hit by the branch. The good news is that there are plenty of types of pre-made play equipment that will keep your kids happy for hours.

What type of play equipment you get will largely be dictated by how much space you have available in your front or back yard. If you have some room to play with, things such as forts, cubby houses, monkey bars, and swings are absolutely perfect. For even more fun for the kiddies, add in some slides, rope ladders, or bridges to connect different play structures. These types of play equipment can be made to suit your needs or even custom made but be aware that it will still have to meet Australian standards.

If you've got a smaller area, you can still install some great play equipment. There are cubby houses that can fit into areas as little as 2 metres square. For really small spaces such as courtyards, a sandpit is ideal.

Asking a play equipment professional can pay off hugely as they will be able to look at your front or back yard and recommend pieces of equipment to suit.

Monday, May 25, 2009

Easy Swing Set Installation

Playing is very important for children. It would help them to become physically strong and psychologically fit. Swing sets offer children the pleasure and benefits of playing.

A swing set is tantamount to childhood. It is an important fact that in their earlier times children are to enjoy their games. A swing set is a jungle gym that triggers your child's imagination. It exercises them and helps them express their analytical powers.

  • Be sure you have the original assembly instructions, product manual, and warrantees.
  • Be sure that it is appropriate for your child/children's age/s.
  • Inspect the used swing set as closely as you can to make sure that all of its parts work correctly and safely.
  • Check the cleanliness of the used swing set. It is not a perfect guarantee, but chances are if its cleanliness was maintained then it was also maintained in other aspects.
  • Inspect all the nuts and bolts for their tightness and security.
  • Clean and disinfect it carefully.
  • Create a secure zone by scattering shock taking loose fill materials extending a minimum of 6 feet from the whole structure and twice the height of the moving parts.
  • Look for the better quality. See if it is insect and decay resistant; if timber is planed twice; has rounded edges to protect little hands; and if bolts are inserted securely for additional safety.
  • Prior to installation, inspect your potential site for any large rocks, large roots, tree stumps, or any debris that may be present in the area.
  • Anchor it to the ground securely.
  • Swing sets and play sets should be installed on level with ground as possible.
  • Plus, check if mulching or boxing is out of the area. It is recommended to do this after the swing set and play set is mounted. Some dealers have developed materials like mulching that includes triple shredded wood and are insect and decay resistant.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Plan Your Outdoor Living Space

What to do with outdoor spaces

  • Swimming pool - This is one area that requires lots of attention for safety reasons. Pool fences and gates are usually installed around the area to keep young children from drowning accidents. For obvious reasons, flooring material should be slip-proof.
  • Meditation space - More and more people resort to outdoor meditation in order to be at one with nature. Privacy is important to this space, so you may consider lattice screens and hedges as "walls" for your meditation area. A "ceiling" in the form of a covered pergola may also be added to make this area usable in different weather conditions.
  • Play area - Your children will appreciate outdoor space for play equipment, cubby houses and ball games. A grassed area is always best for this.

How you plan your outdoor area will depend on your lifestyle, family makeup and maintenance abilities. The options are endless!

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Garden Swing Set

A garden swing set can be the perfect addition to practically any lawn decor enabling gardeners to feel good about the setting they have spent so much time creating. These sets come in a variety of materials and styles, so there is sure to be one that's suitable for all tastes, environmental settings, and, of course, budgets. Wooden swing sets seem to be the material of choice due to them being such a natural fit with their surroundings.

Depending on the type of mechanism used, they can either swing or glide. The swing type hangs from sturdy chains that are attached to an overhead pole. This beam can either be part of a frame that comes with the swing set or part of a much larger apparatus, like on the porch of a home just beneath the eve. The glider has no such requirement. Instead, it rests on joints beneath the seat, sometimes using ball-bearings that make the motion much smoother.

No matter what type of garden swing set you finally decide upon, it will certainly provide comfort and enjoyment for years on end.

Choosing the Right Cubby House for your Kids

There are three basic styles of cubby houses:

  1. The fort - these are open plan cubby houses, and often make sure of accessories such as slides, nets, and sandpits.
  2. Traditional - these are the cubby houses that look like a miniature house. They come with windows, doors, and even verandas, depending on the model.
  3. Play centres - these are semi-enclosed. Think one full wall and one half-height wall. They also come with great accessories such as sandpits, slides, nets, and other things to make play even more fun.

When you choose a cubby for your kids, take their age and development level into consideration. Of course, make sure you have enough room in your yard for the cubby that you are thinking about.

Monday, May 18, 2009

What's Available in Cubby Houses

Cubby houses come in sizes from 1.5m square up to 3mx2.7m. You can locate them on the ground or you can elevate them. The highest elevated cubby houses are around 1.5m off the ground. As the name suggests, cubby houses are like little mini houses. Most cubby houses have windows, doors, and sloping roofs. Depending on the model you choose, some have verandas (complete with safety rails), steps or ladders. If you want to, you can put slides off the side of the cubby house or nets that kids can climb up and down on. As far as furniture goes, this is as easy as going to the two dollar shop and buying kid size plastic furniture!

Friday, May 15, 2009

Cubby Houses - Kids Will Love

A cubby house is a great way to give your kids plenty of fun out in the backyard and they've come so much further than a few bits of wood nailed into a tree. Find out more about the new cubby houses.

There is much more to a cubby house than the old tree houses that many of us grew up with. In many areas of Australia, you are not allowed to do things to trees anymore, and a tree house often isn't the safest option as when the tree grows, it can cause the cubby house to break apart.

Types of Cubby Houses

Nowadays, you can buy cubby houses that have been specifically manufactured for kids' enjoyment and safety. Different models are available so you can choose the right one for your backyard. No matter what model you choose, most come in prefabricated panels (walls, floor, and roof), which are then put together, or as kits that you can put together yourself. If you choose the DIY option, detailed instructions and everything you need to put it together is included. Standard models which are mass manufactured are available, or you can go for a custom made model if you have something specific in mind.

What's Available in Cubby Houses

Cubby houses come in sizes from 1.5m square up to 3mx2.7m. You can locate them on the ground or you can elevate them. The highest elevated cubby houses are around 1.5m off the ground. As the name suggests, cubby houses are like little mini houses. Most cubby houses have windows, doors, and sloping roofs. Depending on the model you choose, some have verandas (complete with safety rails), steps or ladders. If you want to, you can put slides off the side of the cubby house or nets that kids can climb up and down on. As far as furniture goes, this is as easy as going to the two dollar shop and buying kid size plastic furniture!

Friday, May 8, 2009

For First Daughters, a First-Rate Swing Set


First families often add a personal touch to the White House to make it feel more like home. The Obamas, like the Kennedys four decades earlier, have put in a swing set.

Last week, first daughters Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, received an unexpected treat when they returned home from school: a custom-designed set of swings and much more on the South Lawn.

Swing set safety is top priority, it is very important to pull out the owner's manual and review with the children the rules. Children need to understand the rules so everyone can play safe. When shopping for a swing set or play structures make sure all components & accessories are engineered & manufactured to meet or exceed current safety guidelines for residential playground equipment.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Bunk Bed Safety

Bunk beds are such a convenient and space saving option, that many parents assume they are just as safe as any other children's bed. And they can be. But a few rules and precautions need to be followed in order to ensure your child's safety in a bunk bed. Make sure you are following these do's and dont's:

General Bunk Bed Rules

Bunk beds were never built for very young children. In fact, any bed you purchase new will have a sticker on it that states that children under age six should not sleep on the top bunk. But for some reason, this rule is often ignored. While kids can fall in their sleep, they also commonly fall while playing on the top bunk. Let your child know that their bed is for sleeping in, and the floor is for playing on. It is very tempting for them to have their friends or siblings come up to the top bunk and play, but this rule should be firm. In case of accidental falls, you should look at the items you have around the bunk bed. There should be no other Kids furniture with sharp corners nearby, and toys should be kept cleaned up around the bed. If your child were to fall from the top bunk, you wouldn't want them to fall on something sharp.

While the allure of a bed that looks almost like a climbing apparatus is strong, it is important that children always use the ladder to climb up to, and down from, the top bunk. Kids will try to climb up and down using the side rails or any end rails, but again that leads to an increased risk of falls. Be sure that your child's bunk bed is not treated like part of a playground equipment.

Check that your bunk bed meets the current safety standards. There should be a label affixed to the frame of the bed somewhere, or if the bed is handmade or an older model, find out what the current measurements should be, and check your bed to see if it matches. It is also a good idea to occasionally double-check all screws and bolts to ensure that everything is tightened up. You can remember to do this by checking them at the same time you would check other items in your home, such as smoke detectors.

Guardrails

The top bunk of a bunk bed should have guard rails on all four sides of the bed. Quite commonly, the bed is against a wall, and the only side rail is on the outside of the bed. However as unlikely as it may sound, kids have become stuck between the bed and the wall. This can also occur on the lower bunk, and in fact, even in a regular bed...Read more...

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

How to Choose a Play Yard

Play yards today can come with such an array of features that it is a wonder that there is not a style yet that will balance a check book too. Features may include, but certainly are not limited to: a bassinet, diaper changing station, canopy, storage pocket, mobile, rocking mechanism, MP3 an music capabilities, wheels, and storage pockets. Selecting the right model for the family needs can be fairly simple with a little guidance.

Often or Occasional Use

More than likely, parents (and their babies) really do not need all of the above mentioned bells and whistles. However, parents who plan on using it regularly may find some of those features convenient. Families who live in a home with more than one level may appreciate having a sleeping and changing level on the main floor. Working parents may prefer to have these portable nursery centers at the babysitter's home.

If babies are only going to use the pack and play occasionally, parents may want to opt for a lighter, trimmer version. The only feature that they should strongly consider is the bassinet. Parents will place their sleeping cherub into the raised sleeping area is much easier and less hard on the back. They just need to be aware of the weight limit which is generally 15-18 lbs.

Ease of Use and Safety of the Folding Mechanism

One of the wisest things parents can do is visit the store, move the pack and play from the display area, and test how easily it folds up. As they investigate the device, they can also check to see if the storage bag is sturdy and how easy it is to transport.

Some play yards are not as simple to use. If it will be used as portable crib that travels often with the baby, the ease of use of the folding mechanism becomes all the more important. For safety reasons, babies should never be left unattended in a play yard that was made before the year 2000. Older models may have a very dangerous top-rail hinge that puts infant at risk for entrapment.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Doll Collecting..

Soft brown hair, big blue eyes, a hint of a smile on her small and innocent face, the soft design of pink lace on her dress and the pale-pink baby-doll shoes matching the lace-trimmed white socks. She really captivates your heart and created a nostalgic mood making one remember of the sweet and happy times of childhood. She is larger than life, yet she is not and that is why doll collecting is one of the most taken up hobbies of all time. Such are the power of dolls which moves human emotion even when you are way beyond the years of playing with a doll.

Doll collecting is a hobby which requires diligence, patience and money. Yes, money. As exquisite dolls like porcelain, vintage, large and small dolls are hard to find and quite expensive, one should have at least savings and a queer eye for those dolls which are truly worth your money and worth keeping. dolls which render almost human expressions with their eyes and smile with the sweetest of all smiles are captured by dolls designed by Robert Tonner with his Tiny Betsy McCall collection. Measuring only 8-inches and fashioned out of the 1960s paper dolls, it is one example of a classic doll-collecting memorabilia. But doll collecting need not be limited to the classic porcelain dolls antique museums and grandmother's closets are full of.

There are other modern day dolls which can also be worthy of one's time and attention. Precious Moments collection depicts basset hound-eyes characters which are truly endearing and depicts everyday life's small yet pleasurable moments like a big hug and a kiss, whether through friendship or love. And who could ever forget Barbie by Mattel. Introduced in 1959 at Toy Fair, it paved the way for the typical pin-up girl and every guy's dream girl. With her long blond locks and curvy body wearing he latest of all fashion trends, whether casual or formal, Barbie is every girl's playmate and fashion icon. Today, Barbie is not limited to just modern fashion icon. Barbie now dresses multi-race costumes representing various countries in the world.

But doll collecting proves to be taxing for those who are just taking up the hobby and even for those who are into the hobby for years now. When into this hobby, information always matter. Reading a lot of books about dolls is really helpful. Knowing various collections will give insights as to which doll one should choose and collect. And purchase what one should really want and love. It is easy to be swayed by all the advertisements and features about dolls. Choose the one you would love to have. After all, the doll one has chosen with thought and care will be truly worth it.


Article Source: http://www.thecontentcorner.com


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Thursday, April 23, 2009

All About Cubby House and their Safety

Cubby houses nowadays are at the top of most children's 'must have' list, but anything larger than a cardboard box takes planning, and some cubby house may need council support. We give you a guide to building or buying a cubby and some of the highs and lows that you could face on this child-bonding journey.

For those caregivers who would love to build a timber cubby, but just don't have the time or expertise, plastic ready-made cubbies will keep children smiling for hours. And there are no frustrations about building or council approvals. Be prepared though, they can be like putting together a Meccano set. Many large toy retailers sell plastic cubby houses and activity centres.

If you decide to build or buy the cubby house it is important to remember that such a prized possession will instantly make a child the most popular in the street, therefore, prepare for the attack of children in the yard (and house) for a large hunk of the weekend. If you are prepared for a possible kiddie's attack, please read on.

Cubby house types

If you thought a cubby was just a cubby, well you're wrong! If you plan to start searching for a cubby, you should disseminate yourself with cubby lingo:

Fort - is an open structure supporting various accessories such as scramble nets, slides or towering above a sandpit

Traditional - this is the most popular cubby and is a virtual mini-house with windows, a door, and verandah and if the child is lucky, comes with a few accessories. If a child is really lucky, the cubby house could imitate the main house.

Activity centre - has one solid wall and half height solid wall together with scramble nets and sand pits (a built-in version of a fort).

Accessories

If you want to actually impress your child and their friends there is an option to add accessories such as: slide, ladder, rope ladder, scramble net, swing, trapeze bar, sandpit, steering wheel, periscope/telescope, various handles to encourage climbing - and for those who just can't live without one - a telephone.

Cubby safety

• Parental supervision is the number one way to prevent accidents. • If younger children are crossing a raised cubby or fort, try to include guard rails, or you could also install soft rubber matting underneath • Vermin would also love to inhabit the cubby after kids have been cooking in the kitchen, so make sure it is cleaned and secure at the end of a day's play • Be careful of holes that could house snakes or other creepy crawlies, including timber-loving spiders • Round edges • Use non-toxic materials • Adult access

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PlaySafe Kids are the Distributors and importers of Swings set, Children's Slides, Cubby house, play centres, playground equipments, Ride-on toys and more direct to the public. For more information visit http://www.playsafekids.com.au

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