TP News

Read our TP blog posts to catch up with the latest TP news and interesting articles
Children playing on the Explorer metal climbing frame
August 20, 2024
Essential Toys for Your Child: Boosting Development and Fun
This article explores essential kids toys that boost their development but also ensure they have endless hours of fun. We’ll look at how these toys can enhance your child's physical and cognitive development, as well as their social skills. From educational games to exciting outdoor adventures, here’s how the right toys can help your kids…
Child playing on the Pikler triangle
August 20, 2024
How Toys Support Child Development: Why Are Montessori Toys Better?
Toys are important for a child’s development, and the right toys can make all the difference. Montessori toys, such as the Toaster Set and Coffee Machine, offer more than just entertainment—they play a crucial role in supporting holistic child development. In this article, we will discuss how these educational toys enhance learning, creativity and independence, and we’ll explore the fundamental principles of Montessori education that make them so effective.
Child playing with wooden car garage
August 20, 2024
Why Educational Toys Are Crucial for Child Development
Educational toys are thoughtfully designed to support a child’s cognitive, emotional and physical development. In this article, we will look at the importance of educational toys and how much of an impact they can have on a child’s development and overall growth.
Toddler playing with wooden shape sorter
August 20, 2024
Are Wooden Toys Better for Development? Benefits for Your Child's Cognitive Wellbeing
In this article, we will look at the benefits of wooden toys, exploring how they contribute to your child's motor skills, creativity and overall cognitive well-being. We’ll also give you some specific ideas of wooden toys that we think your little ones will love.
Child playing with wooden xylophone
August 20, 2024
Toys for 1 Year Olds: Durability and Sustainability
In this article, we will talk about eco-friendly toys, like the Adventurer Play Pack, and why toys like these are an ideal choice for nurturing fine motor skills, and cognitive abilities, whilst also encouraging a love for play, all whilst thinking about a greener planet too.
Child bouncing on toddler trampoline
August 20, 2024
Creative Toddler Toys: Gift Guide for Imaginative Play
If you’re wondering “Are toys good for toddlers” the short answer is yes! But, when it comes to choosing the perfect gift for a young child, you need to think about their short-term enjoyment as well as the long-term developmental benefits.  In this guide, we’ll help you pick the perfect toddler toy, so you can find something they enjoy as well as something that will help their development. Whether you’re picking something for a niece, nephew, godchild or your own little one, here’s everything you need to know about creative toddler toys.
Kids sitting in the garden next to wooden playhouse
August 20, 2024
What to Put In a Playhouse? Creative Ideas for Decorating Your Wendy House with Accessories
This article is about transforming a simple playhouse into a magical retreat for your little ones to enjoy. We’ll talk about creative and practical playhouse decorating ideas for your kids’ new garden toy, covering everything from Wendy house accessories to furniture and fittings, as well as theme ideas for your child’s playhouse!
Child playing on wooden playhouse with climbing wall
August 20, 2024
Exploring How Climbing Frames Can Improve a Child's Development in the Best Playhouses
This article will discuss how a playhouse with an integrated climbing frame can massively improve a child’s development. We’ll look at specific products, like the Skywood Play Tower, and all the benefits climbing frames offer, covering areas like physical activity, cognitive development and social skills.
Children playing with mud kitchen
August 20, 2024
How to Build a Kids' Play Kitchen: Top Features & Ideas
A play kitchen is a great space for your kids to explore, experiment and engage in imaginative play. By buying a playhouse with kitchen for your kids, you can create an environment that offers so many possibilities for role-play and skill development. In this article, we are going to talk you through building a playhouse with mud kitchen, so your little ones can enjoy endless hours of fun and educational benefits.
Child swinging on TP Rapide swing seat
August 20, 2024
How to Attach a Swing Set to a Playhouse: Step-by-Step Setup and Safety Tips
Adding a swing set to your playhouse gives your kids even more fun to enjoy in the back garden. A playhouse with swing set is an exciting play space that will capture your kids’ imaginations, offering countless hours of fun. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step involved in adding a swing set to your kids’ playhouse. From the initial prep stages to the final steps of securing, and inspecting the set-up, we’ll cover all of the essentials. Whether you’re building a playhouse that has a swing set provided with it, or you’re adding a swing set to your existing playhouse, this article will tell you everything you need to know about adding a swing to your kids’ playhouse. By following these instructions, you can turn your back garden into a safe and enjoyable play area. Choosing the Right Playhouse and Swing Set Combination Before starting the installation, it is important to choose the right playhouse and swing set for your garden and your kids. From metal swing sets to wooden swing sets, there is a range of sets on the market, each offering different features and benefits. When choosing a playhouse with swing or an integrated play set, think about the space in your garden and the children that will be using the swing. A playhouse with an integrated swing set is an all-in-one package, whilst a separate swing set can be added to an existing playhouse for more flexibility. Preparing Your Outdoor Space Once you’ve decided which playhouse and swing set you are going for, proper preparation is the next step. Choose a flat and level area in your garden that is clear of fences, trees or other structures. There needs to be enough clearance room around the playhouse and swing for your kids to play safely. You should also think about the ground in your garden and the weather conditions in your area. Make sure you don’t put the playhouse and swing set somewhere that is prone to flooding or standing water, as this can impact the stability of the ground. A flat, well-draining area is the best place to build your playhouse and swing set, for safety and also for the durability of the playground equipment. Assembling the Playhouse and Swing Set Now that you’ve chosen the playhouse and you’ve picked the location, you can start collecting the tools and materials you need for assembling. Typically, you’ll need a drill, screws, anchors, a level and maybe concrete if you want to create a more stable base. Carefully lay out all the parts before you start building, so you can double-check you have everything you need. Then, read through the assembly instructions to get started. Each playhouse/swing set will have a slightly different set-up process, so follow the instructions carefully. Then, you can start assembling the playhouse according to the instructions. If the swing set is not pre-attached to the playhouse, you must position and attach it separately. Put the swing set in the right location relative to the playhouse, ensuring it aligns correctly with the pre-drilled holes or mounting points. Use the provided hardware to secure the swing set to the playhouse, making sure that all bolts and screws are tightened securely. After attaching everything, check the swing set to ensure it’s secure. There shouldn’t be any wobbling or insecurity, so make any adjustments you need to. Anchoring the Playhouse for Maximum Stability Anchoring the playhouse is an important step for ensuring it’s stable and safe. For most playhouses and swing sets, ground anchors are essential. Without ground anchors the constant swinging can move the swing set around, making it less stable and potentially even loosening parts. Use metal or plastic anchors (depending on your soil type) and install them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, typically at each corner of the playhouse. If you live in an area with soft soil, or where extra stability is required, think about using concrete footings: Dig holes for the footings Mix and pour the concrete into the holds Allow it to set Attach the swingset to the now secured footings To protect your little ones you should also regularly inspect the anchors, footings, and overall structure, to ensure it stays safe. Any problems should be addressed as quickly as possible. Adding Elements to the TP Treehouse Play Tower Adding extra elements to your playhouse, as well as a swing set, can make the experience even more exciting for your little ones. If you have one of our wooden playhouses, like our TP Treehouse Play Tower, you can add: A wavy slide for bouncy thrills A fireman's pole for an exciting way to exit the playhouse A climbing net, so your kids can get up to the top deck of the playhouse A basketball net so your kids can shoot hoops outside of their playhouse A rock climbing wall which will help your kids with balance, coordination and strength Just make sure any attachments that you purchase are safe and compatible with your kids’ playhouse. Final Safety Checks and Maintenance Once you’ve chosen your playhouse, picked a spot in the garden, prepped your outdoor space, built your playhouse, and added any extras you have chosen, give the construction a final once over before you let your kids go wild. Test the swings, and the structure, make sure there are no loose parts or sharp edges, and also give it a regular once over now and then in the future. It’s also a great idea to give your kids some ground rules, for safe play. Conclusion Adding a swing set to a playhouse can enhance your outdoor space, giving children a fun and safe environment to play outdoors. By carefully choosing the right playhouse and swing set combination, preparing your outdoor space, following step-by-step assembly and anchoring instructions, and adding elements, you can create a play area that offers both enjoyment and peace of mind. Prioritise maximum safety with regular inspections and proper maintenance to make sure your kids’ outdoor playhouse and swing set is a safe space for years to come.
Child sliding down wavy slide
August 20, 2024
What is the Best Wooden Playhouse with Slide? Top Features and Comparisons
A playhouse is much more than another toy, it’s a haven for kids to explore and enjoy. They’re a safe space for physical activity, social interaction and imaginative play. In this guide, we’ll help you decide the best playhouse with slide, by looking at some top Wendy house models, their features, and comparison points to help you pick the perfect playhouse for your garden.
Children playing in a two storey wooden playhouse
August 20, 2024
Ensuring Safety: Tips for a Secure Two-Story Playhouse for Kids
When it comes to choosing the perfect playhouse for your little ones, a two-storey playhouse is a brilliant choice. These multi-level playhouses have double the space for fun, and they’re the perfect place for your little ones’ imaginations to run wild. Whether you go for a TP Hill Top Wooden Playhouse or a TP Sunnyside wooden tower, with our expert advice you can pick the perfect garden building for your kids to explore. We’ll cover everything from construction to maintenance and safety features, giving you all the info you need to keep children safe in their playhouse.
Children sitting next to a plastic playhouse
August 20, 2024
Can You Paint a Plastic Playhouse? Tips for Seasonal Decorating
This guide will talk you through decorating your kids’ plastic playhouse, so you can turn it into an exciting and inviting space for your little one. We’ll look at detailed techniques for painting and decorating, as well as some seasonal tips that will keep your playhouse updated all-year-round. With our practical tips and creative ideas for playhouse makeovers, you’ll be able to create a play area that your children will love, season after season.
Children playing in wooden cottage playhouses
August 20, 2024
Seasonal Maintenance Tips: How to Treat Your Wooden Wendy House
A wooden Wendy house is more than just another toy for the garden. It’s a magical space for children to explore and let their imaginations run wild. Whether you go for the Ahoy Wooden Playboat or the grand Wooden Tower Outdoor Playhouse, these garden buildings are a safe space for your kids to enjoy, for years to come. But to make sure your kids’ playhouse stays safe, some seasonal maintenance is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore how to treat a wooden Wendy house through the changing seasons, with a focus on weatherproofing, wood treatments and regular upkeep to maintain their beauty and durability. Understanding Your Wooden Wendy House A wooden Wendy house offers a unique play experience compared to plastic playhouses. The natural beauty and durability of wood make it a preferred choice for many parents.  However, wooden playhouses do require slightly more upkeep to maintain their appearance and safety. By reading this guide for wooden playhouse maintenance, and implementing some of the tips, you can ensure that your kids' playhouse remains a delightful and safe place for them to enjoy. Seasonal Maintenance Tips Spring: Refresh and Inspect Conduct a Thorough Inspection Spring is the perfect time to assess the condition of your wooden Wendy house after the winter months. Start by inspecting the entire structure for problem areas. Look for: Signs of Damage: Check for cracks, splits, or warping in the wood. These can be early indicators of more serious issues if not addressed promptly. Checking for Rot: Look for soft, discoloured areas, particularly at the base and any joints. Wood rot can compromise the integrity of your playhouse and should be treated immediately. Clean the Playhouse Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the aesthetic and structural strength of your wooden playhouse. Use a mild detergent mixed with water to gently scrub the surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals, or jet washing, that can damage the wood or paint. Reapply Wood Preservatives Wood treatments, like preservatives and sealants, are essential for protecting your wooden Wendy house from moisture and pests. In spring, inspect the previous application and reapply if necessary. Wood preservatives penetrate the wood and help protect it from rot and insect damage. Summer: Protect and Maintain Refresh Wood Stains Summer is the perfect time to refresh the wood stains on your wooden playhouse. Wood stains will improve the appearance of the playhouse, but they also offer an additional layer of protection against the elements. Go for a high-quality wood stain suitable for outdoor use. Apply a fresh coat if the previous one shows signs of wear. Check for Pest Infestation Warm weather can attract pests like termites, ants and bee nests. Regularly check your wooden playhouse for signs of infestation. If you spot any signs of pests, consider consulting a professional pest control service to address the issue. Ensure Proper Ventilation Proper ventilation is important. Make sure there is good airflow in the Wendy house, to prevent the buildup of moisture which can lead to mould and rot. Check that the vents are open, try to put the playhouse in a shady spot, and make sure you open the doors and windows now and then. Autumn: Prepare for Winter Weatherproofing Autumn is a great time to prepare your wooden playhouse for the upcoming winter. Weather conditions like rain, snow and frost can be particularly harsh on wooden structures. Apply a water-repellent wood treatment to protect the wood from moisture. Check for Damage Before winter sets in, give your playhouse another once over. Repair any minor damage or issues, to make sure they don’t worsen through winter. Pay special attention to joints, hinges and any areas that are prone to wear. Clean Gutters and Drains If your playhouse has gutters or drains, make sure they are clean and free from debris. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, which can then cause wood rot. Regular maintenance of these areas will help direct rainwater away from the playhouse. Winter: Protect and Prevent Regular Cleaning Even in winter, regular cleaning is essential. Snow and ice can cause dampness, which can lead to wood rot. If it snows make sure you remove the excess snow from the roof of the playhouse. Inspect for Ice Damage The ice and snow that come with Winter can sometimes cause damage to wooden playhouses. Check your wooden Wendy house for any signs of damage caused by ice or snow, and fix these quickly to prevent further damage. Ensure Proper Drainage Proper drainage is essential to prevent water from sitting at the base of your playhouse, which might cause rot. Make sure the ground around the playhouse slopes away from the structure, so the water is directed away from the wood. Essential Tips for Long-Term Maintenance Regular Cleaning Regular cleaning is not just a seasonal thing; it’s an ongoing effort. Dirt, grime and bits like leaves and bird poop can contribute to wood degradation if left unchecked. So, give your playhouse a clean now and then to protect it. Use Quality Wood Treatments Investing in quality products will give you a better quality result. Choose products that are specifically designed for outdoor use, so you can be sure they’ll provide enough protection against the elements. Address Issues Quickly Fixing minor issues quickly can help prevent them from developing into major problems. Regular inspections and maintenance will help you catch and fix issues early, so your playhouse can last longer. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and care. These guidelines are designed to help you get the most out of your playhouse, so you can keep it safe and enjoyable for your children. Conclusion Looking after a wooden Wendy house requires attention to detail and a proactive approach. By following these seasonal maintenance tips, you can make sure your wooden playhouse stays a cherished space for your children. From refreshing wood stains in summer to weatherproofing in autumn, every step is equally important. With regular care and attention, your wooden Wendy's house will last long into your kids’ futures.
Kids playing in a wooden playhouse
August 20, 2024
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Build a Playhouse for Kids with TP Toys
A children’s playhouse isn’t just a garden building. It’s a safe space for your kids to explore. With TP Toys' range of garden playhouses, you have so many to choose from. Whether you’ve gone for the cute Clover Cottage, a wooden kids' playhouse or a TP Forest Cabin Playhouse, we’re going to walk you through the assembly process, step by step.
Child playing on the Active-Tots Pikler triangle & slide
July 30, 2024
Exploring Pikler Toys: A Complete Introduction and Overview
In the realm of children's toys designed to foster physical development and creativity, Pikler-inspired toys have garnered attention for their versatility and profound developmental benefits. These toys are not just playthings but tools that actively contribute to a child's growth in multiple dimensions. Among these, the Active Tots Climbing Triangle and Balance Board stand out as exemplary choices. They go beyond mere entertainment by encouraging children to engage in active play that enhances their physical abilities, promotes creative exploration, and promotes independent play.
Child playing with wooden building blocks
July 30, 2024
What Are Educational Toys for Toddlers: Building Skills Through Play
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of educational toys for toddlers, exploring not only their importance and the benefits they offer but also how they cater to the unique needs of children with special requirements. Additionally, we highlight some of the most effective and engaging options available in today's market.
Choosing Early Years Toys: Do Toys in the Nursery Distract Bedtime?
July 30, 2024
Choosing Early Years Toys: Do Toys in the Nursery Distract Bedtime?
This article delves into the essential factors to consider when choosing early years toys, explores their impact on a child's development, and investigates whether certain toys can inadvertently disrupt bedtime.
Child bouncing on a 3ft junior trampoline
July 29, 2024
Choosing the Perfect Toys for Toddlers: How to Determine If Toys Are Good for Toddlers
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key considerations when choosing toys for toddlers. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions that contribute positively to your child's early years. Featured prominently are top picks like the Scuttlebug XL and Toddler Quadpod, chosen for their ability to foster learning through play while prioritising safety and engagement.
Toddler playing with a wooden Owl & Fox xylophone toy
July 29, 2024
When Do Babies Start Playing with Toys? Milestones and Tips for Parents
This article explores the progression of when babies first engage with toys, emphasising the importance of selecting age-appropriate options like baby toys and wooden baby toys. The aim is to put minds at rest and answer that frequently asked question; are wooden toys safe for babies? These choices not only cater to developmental needs but also promote sensory exploration and tactile learning. Additionally, it offers practical advice to parents on creating a secure and stimulating play environment that fosters curiosity and supports early learning.
Exploring the Outdoors: What Are the Best Outdoor Toys for Toddlers
July 29, 2024
Exploring the Outdoors: What Are the Best Outdoor Toys for Toddlers
This article delves into a curated range of garden toys for toddlers, promoting physical activity, and ensuring an enjoyable playtime experience while answering that frequently asked question; what sensory toys should I use in my garden?
Children playing in plastic playhouse
June 17, 2024
The Therapeutic Value of Playhouses for Children with Special Education Needs
In this article, we will look at the therapeutic benefits of playhouses, focusing on their design features and the specific activities that make them beneficial for children with special educational needs.
Children playing on wooden playhouse with slide
June 17, 2024
Why Playhouses Are Perfect Spaces for Storytelling and Role-Playing
In this article, we will look at why playhouses are the perfect setting for imagination and role-playing. We’ll also talk about how these experiences contribute to a child's development, from helping them find their identity to developing narrative skills, physical ability and social skills. Playhouses are a great space for kids for so many reasons.
Children playing in ahoy wooden playboat
June 17, 2024
How Playhouses Encourage Imagination and Creativity in Children
In this article, we’ll talk about playhouses and how much they can nurture a child’s imagination and creativity.