Preschoolers learn through play.  Productive playtime is vital to the development of learning patterns and techniques required to be successful in school.  Toys that challenge preschoolers rather than merely entertain them, are especially important in helping them learn to cope with the frustrations and failures than often come with learning.  The toys below were selected based on the Perfect Playrooms “Rules of Play” (see margin to the right) and from parental suggestions.
Active/Outdoor Play
Little Tikes Basketball Hoop:  Perfect for indoors or out, this basketball hoop will quickly become a favorite.  Price …

Toddlers are naturally inquisitive and love to explore, experiment and learn.  They also grow and change very fast.  As a result, purchasing toys that maintain their interest through their ever changing developmental stages will not only prevent frustration, it will save time and money as well.
What they need:

Interaction without over stimulation
Repetition
Simple and basic toys to stack, sort, push, pull, etc…
Variation

What to look for in a toy:

Simplicity
Battery free (if possible)
Long Shelf Life (toys that are too specific or have a limited use of play quickly collect more dust than playtime)
Ability to …

Wish you could turn on the screen without turning on all the guilt as well?  While the TV is certainly not going to teach your child to read, modifying the way your child watches TV can actually help them become better readers.   Of course, reading is still required and screen time still needs to be limited, but by applying these simple tricks to regular TV viewing, encouraging your child to read may be easier than you think…
Tips and Tricks to Increase Literacy While Watching TV
1.  Turn on the captions! According to Jim …

Whether a simple game of peek-a-boo with your toddler or a full scale pirate or princess theatre productions with your kids, play tents provide an endless array of imaginative options for all age groups. The styles of play tents vary widely from a simple camping style dome tent to a floor to ceiling plastic frame palace.
The endless sense of “ownership” tents provide is priceless in the eyes of a child.  Unfortunately, so is the space and time required to set up and store these tents.
If you don’t have space to …

Playrooms are often integrated into family or living rooms.  As a result, many families are faced with the challenge of creating a space that is welcoming to visitors yet suitable for daily play.  Standard toy bin storage are problamatic as they can create the look and feel of a toy store or playroom.  To get the best of both worlds, standard family room furniture, such as storage ottomans and TV cabinets or armories, can provide the look you desire with the storage you need.
Wall Units
Family rooms are often oriented around the TV.  …