??From train sets to dollhouses to toy kitchens, children can’t get enough of playsets that mimic real-life situations. They’re not too big and not too small, but just right for little ones to let their imaginations run wild. Playsets from KidKraft are popular for their high-quality, durable construction and expert attention to detail.
A top choice, the four-story KidKraft Majestic Mansion Wooden Dollhouse is ideal for those looking for a playset to accommodate several children at once. It’s large enough to accommodate 12-inch dolls and includes an attic nursery and elevator.
What to know before you buy a KidKraft playset
What is a playset?
A playset can be any toy that lets your kid’s imagination run wild. There are outdoor playsets, including jungle gyms, slides, swings and playhouses. In the case of inclement weather, it’s convenient to have indoor play options for children, such as dollhouses, train sets, mini-kitchens or toy tool benches.
Types of KidKraft playsets
Dollhouses: KidKraft has a range of wooden dollhouses that are realistic and charmingly crafted. They range from one level up to four stories and can accommodate dolls from 5-12 inches. Some features of KidKraft dollhouses include working lights and music, sliding elevators, garage doors and stairs.
Play kitchens: KidKraft play kitchens are true-to-life and built to last. Some include working lights, stovetop burner sounds, knobs that turn and cabinets that actually open and close.
Train sets: Train sets provide hours of fun and keep small pieces off the floor. KidKraft train tables come with an array of features, including bridges, waterfalls, wheeled vehicles, tunnels and buildings.
Benefits of a KidKraft playset
While playsets seem like a fun way to entertain children, they offer a plethora of educational benefits. Pretend play is vital in child development. Dollhouses and kitchens help children create narratives and creative stories, while train tables allow children to practice their fine motor skills and execute plans. When they use the playsets with other children, they learn about taking turns, responsibility sharing and problem-solving.
KidKraft playset features
Material
Most KidKraft playsets are made using wood. For this reason, KidKraft playsets tend to stand the test of time and keep up with rowdy children. However, wood doesn’t always hold up well to outside elements, so it’s vital to check the materials and manufacturer’s instructions if you plan to put your playset outside.
Size
To ensure you have enough room for your new playset, it’s important to measure out the space beforehand. For example, if you have a small area designated, compact kitchens, dollhouses, and activity tables could fit your space. However, if you have ample space available, bringing home a large train table or four-story dollhouse probably isn’t an issue.
Assembly
The majority of KidKraft playsets require assembly. Assembly time can range from 1-4 hours, depending on the exact model.
Age range
Not all playsets are suitable for all ages. For example, older children might be bored with a dollhouse meant for a toddler, and small children might not be able to operate a complex train table designed for older children. Therefore, paying attention to the recommended age range is essential in finding a proper playset your little one will love.
Working lights and features
Kids love working lights, sliding elevators, functional doorbells and any other features that mimic real-life situations. If this is an important feature for you, KidKraft includes working elements in many of its playsets.
KidKraft playset cost
KidKraft playsets cost from $75-$300, depending on the type of playset, size and material.
KidKraft playset FAQ
Can I buy the dollhouse furniture separately?
A. According to KidKraft, dollhouse furniture is only available when purchasing the entire dollhouse and is not sold separately.
Can I put water in the play kitchen sink?
A. KidKraft does not recommend putting water in a playset kitchen sink as it serves only for imaginative play value.
Which KidKraft playset should I get?
Best of the best KidKraft playset
KidKraft Majestic Mansion Wooden Dollhouse: available at Amazon and Wayfair
Our take: This detailed wooden dollhouse has everything children could want and is expansive enough for several children to play with at once.
What we like: With four levels and a total height of 52 inches, it will provide fun for young or older children and comes fully furnished with 34 pieces. The dollhouse includes a garage, elevator and staircase. The wooden construction is durable and holds up well over time.
What we dislike: It can be time-consuming to put together and takes up ample space due to its size.
Best bang for your buck KidKraft playset
KidKraft Savannah Wooden Dollhouse: available at Amazon
Our take: Perfect for toddlers and young children, this wooden dollhouse is reasonably priced while still offering realistic details and four levels.
What we like: Children will be able to decorate this durable dollhouse however they please with the 13 included pieces of colorful furniture. It’s constructed of durable wood and even features a working porch swing.
What we dislike: The directions are a bit vague, making this dollhouse challenging to assemble.
Honorable mention KidKraft playset
KidKraft Ultimate Corner Wooden Play Kitchen: available at Amazon
Our take: Little cooks will love this durable kitchen with realistic lights and sounds on the stove burners.
What we like: Not only does this play kitchen feature lights and sounds, all cabinet and appliance doors are functional. It has everything a real kitchen needs, including hanging pegs for pots, an oven, microwave, refrigerator, washing machine, cordless phone and even a removable sink for easy cleanup.
What we dislike: Assembly is tricky, and some people wish the washer had a knob instead of stickers.
Bre Richey is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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