Little Tikes Variety Climber

A New Child's Play - Plastic Playground Equipment

2012-06-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

Decades back we used to play on playground equipment built of wood or iron. But today the hygienic issues have made manufacturers build this equipment out of plastic. Compared to wood and other metal equipment, plastic playground equipment is durable and requires low maintenance. But you should choose such equipment keeping some factors in mind to ensure safety of your child.
Parents are no longer worried about the fact that their children choose outdoor playground equipment to enjoy their recreational activity. A few decades back this playground equipment was usually built with either metal or wood. Metal gets easily heated up in the sun to cause burns and the wooden equipment, on the other hand, get splinters all over in due course. Today, issues relating to health and hygiene have triggered a great transformation in the way the playground equipment is constructed. Different manufactures have come up with their plastic equipment devoid of the disadvantages of the wooden and metal equipment.

Plastic used in producing playground equipment is rotationally molded, ultraviolet light stabilized polyethylene plastic. A category known as Recycled Structural Plastic (RSP) is now widely used by manufactures to build this equipment. This plastic playground equipment are quite durable and are available in a wide range of colors which makes them look lucrative to the children. The main advantage of this plastic equipment is that they have a smooth surface unlike the rough surfaces of the wooden equipment. Moreover unlike iron or other metal, plastic takes time to get heated up, causing fewer burns.
Plastic has added advantage to wood and other materials which makes them safer for children. To mention a few of these advantages:
* Plastic unlike any other material resists moisture, insects, and bacteria.
* Plastic can be molded into a smooth surface containing negative splinters.
* Plastic doesn't corrodes like other metals, hence requires no preservatives, sealants or paint.
* Plastic can be molded into any shape and size to give the equipments an attractive look.
* Plastic equipment is easy to maintain unlike wood or metals.
There are several factors which should be taken care of in ensuring the safety of the plastic playground equipment. The elements that should be properly checked are:
* Rounded Corner - You should make sure that the play equipment you are about to purchase has smooth and rounded corners. Sharp corners can cause cuts or bruises onto the skin of your kids. Sometimes the cloth of your little ones can get stuck to these sharp corners resulting in some fatal accident or injury.
* Unsafe openings - Some play equipment have a dangerous opening of about 3 to 9 inches, which make them accident prone for kids as their head or any other body part may get stuck in those openings. You should choose the playground equipment keeping in view this issue.
* Joints - Exposed joints between moving parts can cause injuries to the tiny fingers of your kids as they easily get stuck between the joints. So you should choose equipment with less exposed joints.
* Hooks - 'S' shaped hooks are mainly found in swings. While purchasing the equipment you should make sure that the hooks are properly bent and out of the reach of the children. Hooks are far more dangerous as they can lead to entrapment and strangulation.
* Nuts & Bolts - While installing the play equipment you should make sure that the nuts and bolts used for connecting the different parts don't remain bulged out to cause accidents.
* Structural strength - Besides being hardy, plastics don't have an age limit and weight limit. But some manufactures in order to provide maximum features at lower price, supply weak plastic equipment with limited weight carrying capacity. So you should inspect the equipment before purchasing it.
From the above discussion it is quite clear that choosing plastic playground equipment is not an easy task as it involves the question of your child's safety. You should choose wisely as purchasing a cheap playground equipment may cost your child his life. There are several manufactures who are providing plastic playground equipment with a five-year, or more, guarantee against deterioration or breakage.

This article is written by an expert who is currently associated with AAAStateOfPlay, an esteemed organization for indoor and outdoor commercial playground equipment. They are also into the sale of different types of playground safety surfaces to the customers at reasonable rates.

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Top Ten Outside Toys for Kids Under Twelve

2012-03-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

If you are a parent then you are likely to know that summertime can be a difficult time. Parents of children under the age of twelve are constantly dealing with children who are bored. There are only so many activities a child can do inside. That is why it is important for children to play outside during the summer.

Playing outside in the summertime is fun, but many children can easily become bored without a few outdoor summer toys. If you are the parent of a child who is younger than twelve, you have a number of options when it comes to buying outdoor toys. Below is a list and small summary of ten of the most popular outside toys for children under the age of twelve.
(1) Sand and Water Activity Tables
Sand and water activity tables are tables that allow children to play in the sand or in the water almost at the same time. Most tables are divided into two sections. A large number of companies make sand and water activity tables; therefore, you can purchase a wide variety of different table designs. Most sand and water tables are designed for children aged three and up.
Average Price: $45 - $75
(2) Outdoor Water Sprinklers
For years now, outdoor water sprinklers have been how many children without pool access have stayed cool during the summertime. Outdoor water sprinklers come in all different styles. Traditional sprinkler systems can be purchased; however, large beach balls, plastic animals, and other popular cartoon characters can be used as a sprinkler system. All outdoor water sprinklers require water hookup through a garden hose.
Average Price: $5 - $30
(3) Water Guns
Similar to the above mentioned water sprinklers, water guns are a fun way for children without a pool to stay cool. Water guns come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles. You can purchase a water gun that fits into the palm or your hand or you can get one that is so big it is about waist tall. Large water guns tend to have more force when it comes to dispensing the water. This means that most large water guns are not safe for children under the age of five.
Average Price: $10 - $20
(4) Slip and Slide Water Toys
Slip and slides are known as small water slides. They have been a popular outdoor summer toy for children under the age of twelve for years now. Slip and slides work best on a hill, but with running water a child can have fun even on a flat surface. Many slip and slides are sold with a sprinkler system or a miniature wading pool for extra fun.
Average Price: $10 - $25
(5) Inflatable Water Slides
Until recently, the above mentioned slip and slide water toys were the only water slides designed for home use without a pool. Now large water slides are being sold online and in department stores across the country. These slides are inflatable and they can go as high as ten feet in the air. They come with a miniature pool at the bottom. Due to their large size, most water slides are designed for children over the age of four or five.
Average Price: $200 - $300
(6) Sandboxes
Currently, sandboxes sit in millions of backyards all across the country. When filled with sand, sandboxes offer hours of fun for the whole family. Sandboxes can come in a traditional box size or they can come as large plastic animals. Large plastic turtles and crabs are most popular with children under the age of five.
Average Price: $45 - $100
(7) Teeter Totters
Many parents and children mistakenly believe that teeter totters are only meant for the park. The truth is that there are a large number of teeter totters that are designed for backyards of all sizes. Large teeter totters can often be hooked into the ground; therefore, making it safe for older children or adults to use. Smaller teeter totters that are transportable and designed for children under the age of 10 can also be purchased.
Average Price: $40 - $80
(8) Grill and Grill Accessories
Toy grills are becoming one of the most popular outdoors toys to hit the market. A large number of companies make these grills; therefore, there is a large selection of different styles at most retail stores. The grills can come in all different sizes with talking pieces, plastic food, and other grill accessories. These toy grills allow children to feel like a grownup while they cook right alongside their parents.
Average Price: $20 - $60
(9) Children's Wheelbarrow and Garden Accessories
A children's wheelbarrow can be used for a number of fun outdoor activities. Children can use a wheelbarrow to move their toys or help their parents in the garden. Most wheelbarrows can be purchased with additional garden accessories for extra fun. Children's wheelbarrows come in all different shapes and sizes; therefore, children of all ages can have fun with this great outdoor toy.
(10) Bubbles
Bubbles have always been considered fun outside toys, but the creation of additional bubble toys have made them even more fun. In addition to traditional bubbles, there are now bubble-making machines. These machines can often produce hundred of bubbles in just a few minutes. There are also machines that can be used to create huge bubbles. In addition to bubble-making machines, there are also other bubble accessories that can create unique bubble shapes and much more.
Average Price: $5 - $20
All of the toys mentioned above are the top ten most popular outside toys for children under the age of twelve. The good news is that almost all of these toys are reasonably priced and great for backyards of just about any size. Why let your child suffer through a boring summer when a large number of fun outdoor toys are all within your reach?

Cathy Franklin is an author and the owner of Toys Store Online [http://www.toys-store-online.com/]. She features the hot new toys, video games [http://www.toys-store-online.com/video-games.htm], dolls, and playsets for kids.

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Great Little Tikes Plastic Toys

2012-02-25T22:20:00.000-08:00

Little Tikes' has been producing durable plastic toys more than three decades now. During this time the company had sell millions of toys. This is for sure a great amount. During years, the company has understood that innovation and commitment is the main key to reach the top of the market. They have spent quite a lot of time to research children playing habits. Because of this, they know how kids play and they make toys exactly considering the data gathered during massive research process.
Little Tikes' uses durable and weather proof plastic to ensure that toys made by them will resist all games and activities children can come up with for years. It is not rare at all when Little Tikes' plastic toys will be used for playing among 2 or more generations in a family. Toys made by Little Tikes' are usually bright colored and everybody likes bright colors. The color is added to the plastic during molding process so the color will be the part of the plastic material itself. Because of this, the color never rubs off from the toys made by Little Tikes' Company.
The product range of Little Tikes' toys is quite wide. It includes Outdoor Toys, Kids Furniture, Inflatable Bouncers, Learning Toys, Ride On Toys, Pretend Play Toys, Sports, Toy Trucks, Toy Packages, Baby Born Dolls, Climbing Walls and many more. Everyone will found something useful for their kids from Little Tikes product range.
Many of the toys made by Little Tikes' are meant mainly for outdoor activities. These days' reports from doctors are telling us that kids spend less time outdoors than they should for being completely healthy. When you kids have a toy from Little Tikes, you could be sure that they will get enough exercises playing outside the back yard.

Carl has a site called Little Tikes Car Information [http://little-tikes-car.blogspot.com/]. There you will find information for example about Little Tikes car models, Little Tikes Company and much more.

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Outdoor Playground Equipment - 5 Safety Tips to a Better Play Experience

2012-02-05T08:01:00.000-08:00

When looking for outdoor playground equipment for your children to enjoy, whether you are looking to purchase or just looking for local parks and play areas to use, one of the most important considerations is safety. Although there are many playground related accidents and injuries every year, the good news is that a few simple rules and checks will greatly reduce the chances of your kids running into hazards while outdoors.

Adult supervision is the one of the top methods of accident prevention. Ensure that the playground that you install or use is fully viewable from where adults will be located.
Adult presence can also encourage positive and responsible play behaviour in children. It is important that children understand the importance of responsible play, especially when there are other children using the same equipment. No pushing or shoving, taking turns on playground slides, using equipment appropriately, and being aware of danger (e.g. equipment can get hot in the summer, slippery in the rain), are all good things to teach children to help enhance their playtime activity.
If you are purchasing outdoor playground equipment, ensure that it is purchased from a reputable supplier. Comprehensive and appropriate installation instructions should be provided and if necessary, they should be able to point you in the direction of installation professionals where required (such as for commercial playground equipment, or large playground swings). Generally speaking, the larger the piece of equipment, the greater the higher likelihood that a professional may need to assist, but safety needs to be considered for all sized play-pieces.
Ensure that the playground design is safe. The layout should have all activities appropriately spaced, the environment should be safe (consider slopes, trees, traffic, underfoot terrain etc. that can all become hazards), and the equipment itself should be designed with safety in mind. In terms of purchasing outdoor or commercial playground equipment, you can cover some of these bases by purchasing from reputable and well-known companies who have high safety standards and good reputations for service and support, then you need to follow their advice on installation procedures.
Regular inspection and maintenance is essential to keep your equipment safe. A quick check of all the equipment for stability, foreign objects, and other hazards before letting your children play can avoid many injuries and health risks. This applies to backyard play areas, school playgrounds, public parks, or any other piece of outdoor playground equipment that your child may use.

By following these 5 simple rules you can not only reduce the risks associated with outdoor playground equipment, but in doing so, you increase the fun and enjoyment that children will gain from the play. After all, that is the reason that we encourage our kids to use such equipment in the first place - to explore, gain confidence, develop, and be happy.

E. Car is a 'researcher and recommender' for the website Playgrounds4Kids.com which aims to take some of the worry out of purchasing children's playgrounds.
Whether it is for a commercial site, a back-yard, or a playroom, Eric sifts through the multitude of options on the market and provides links directly to the suppliers. Products and suppliers are chosen based on quality, service, safety, and value for money.
Follow the link here to see what Eric would recommendation for you...
playgrounds4kids.com [http://www.playgrounds4kids.com/]

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Children's Outdoor Party Ideas - Fun Garden Games

2012-01-14T07:48:00.000-08:00

Garden games such as twister giant chess and many others provide a fun source of entertainment for your children, you can choose games for a small number of children or others with a far greater number of participants depending on your requirements.
No parent if given the choice would want to hold a child's party indoors when they are a bomb proof garden outside where your child's friends can run riot.
Purchasing some outdoor garden games will not only keep the children entertained during a birthday party but will also last you for years to follow. Good quality well manufactured garden games purchased from a reputable provider can last you an incredibly long time.
You will find that there is a wide range of outdoor games on the market which vary greatly in price, this allows there to be something to suit every parent s pocket. Many of the traditional board games played inside have been transformed into far larger versions of their former selves for outdoor use. These larger versions seem to capture everyone's imagination regardless of age. The garden game you buy does not need to be restricted to only your child's use if you plan and think wisely you can buy a garden game that adults will also enjoy so that it can be used during outdoor adult parties as well.
Outdoor garden games available:
Starting with some of the most expensive;
Giant Chess The age old game in giant format! This is a fantastic family game which is more suited to older children and adults. This is one of the most expensive outdoor games I have found, however there are different sizes available and if you are happy to compromise slightly on size you will benefit pricewise.
Draughts
This product is very similar to giant chess and is suitable for all that can play or have a yearning to learn. If you have small children it may be a better choice than chess as the rules are less complicated. This product again can vary in size and also price to suit all budgets.
Connect Four (or words similar to this affect:) )
This product will suit all ages and is suitable for two players at a time. This may not necessarily be best suited for a children's party unless a tournament is arranged as the number of players participating at one time is restricted. The game is made either of wood or plastic (depending on supplier) and stands roughly at 1.2 metres tall x 1.2 metres wide. This game requires skill and strategy to become the first player to connect four plastic playing counters into a row to win!
Giant Tumbling Towers Multi player game which causes tension to heighten as the tower does. Who will be the first to make the tower tumble? This product is currently available in beautifully crafted wooden blocks and is suitable for all ages. Please note that a step ladder may be required to add blocks at some stage during this game. Small children also need to be supervised for when the tower does tumble!
Giant Dominoes Fun for all ages either to play with or to create patterns or to play numerous games with.
Giant Pick Up Sticks
Suitable for only those with the steadiest of hands. This multiplayer game is suitable for all ages and comes in either wooden or plastic format.

Vicki Copp is a writer for Jacks Garden Store, she offers advice and tips on children's outdoor play equipment including play frames, outdoor trampolines, sandpits and other outdoor garden games. Visit Jacks garden toys advice blog for more information.

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How to Choose Good Toys For Toddlers

2011-12-04T07:13:00.001-08:00

A toddler is full of energy and vitality, they always want to do something exciting and playful that is why toys for them should also be chosen accordingly. You should always try to choose toys which are fun to play with and also educational. Today in the market you can easily find a wide variety of toys for your toddler that would make their growing up a fun filled experience.
So, now let me tell you about some very good tips that would surely help you to choose good toys for toddlers.
1. Toys that would help to enjoy various activities
Toddlers love to jump, play, climb, run and dance, they are full of energy which can be utilized to do something productive. Try to choose toys that would help your toddler to enjoy all these activities, but always make sure that those toys are simple and safe for a small child.
2. Give them something creative
Growing children usually like doing all kinds of creative things and they love playing with crayons, colors, and chalks. Toddlers can not draw or paint specific objects, but they like scribbling and mixing paints and colors, allow them to do so as it would only increase their creative imagination.
3. Choose toys according to the gender
Sometimes it might happen that a baby boy may not like the toys that a girl likes, so before purchasing toys for them always keep this in mind, boys are more focused towards cars, bat, balls while girls prefer dolls, books and other such things.
4. Choose toys that would develop their imagination
Children are very different from adults, they love creative things and fun filled toys. Give them some toys that would help to develop their imagination. You can give them toys which have blocks, sandbox toys and interlocking pieces, this would keep them busy as well as it would also give them the space to think on their own accord.
5. Some toys for toddlers that you can consider
Although there are various toys available for the toddlers in the market, some of the most educative ones are water play toys, push-pull toys, climbing structures, books with simple stories, puzzles, creative materials like paint and crayons, pedal toys, swings, wagons, cars, boys, musical toy boxes, counting stand and bean bags.
I am very sure that this article would help you to purchase safe and creative toys for your children that would make their growing up a whole new experience.

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The Truth About Kids Outdoor Playsets

2011-11-07T06:37:00.000-08:00

Kids outdoor playsets have a multitude of benefits for our children. In today's world of video games, gadgets, and computers, outdoor activities can easily take a backseat in our children's lives. It's up to us as parents to ensure that the important advantages of outdoor play continue to be a part of their everyday routine. Here are some of the most important benefits of owning outdoor playsets.

You will see a big improvement in several developmental areas due to kids outdoor playsets. Playsets encourage changes in motor skills. The fine motor skills are developed with the use of hand to eye movements. Gross motor skills are affected by the physical exercise that improves strength, balance, reflexes, and overall health. There's no limit to the benefits of running, climbing, and swinging.
Our nation has a little bit of a reputation of having couch potato syndrome, a terrible habit of laying around and not exercising. You can avoid letting your kids develop this habit by getting them a great outdoor playset. Young children have tons of excess energy and playsets are a great way for them to expend this energy. They can run, climb, and swing like Tarzan. Invite the neighborhood kids for some group activity and they'll all be burning some extra energy.
As parents we want to encourage our children to be independent and self-confident. Outdoor playsets are a great avenue for this. Your kids will enjoy exploring their outdoor world all by themselves and they'll start planning their own activities for the day.
Playing outdoors introduces children to the wonderful world of nature. The stimulation of the outdoors will increase your child's observation skills. Nature is colorful with lots of great images and will stimulate their visual awareness. Sometimes being outdoors generates the artistic kids to start to draw, sculpt, or build with any number of props.
Today's playsets have very interactive features that allow children to engage in dramatic play. In their very own backyard they can role play and explore make believe worlds that exist outside of their everyday indoor world. This is a very important aspect of their cognitive development and not one to take lightly.
Kids outdoor playsets come in a variety of combinations. They can be just strictly a swing set, they can be a swing set and clubhouse combination, or they can be smaller playhouses will a variety of interactive activities. Don't let outdoor activities take a backseat in your children's lives. Introduce them to the world of interactive outdoor play and watch their imaginations run wild!

One of the best kids outdoor playsets available is the Naturally Playful Clubhouse Climber. To read a full review on the this great playset and to see other interactive play equipment visit http://www.squidoo.com/naturallyplayfulclubhouseclimber, my favorite outdoor play website.

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Outdoor Toys Make a Great Christmas Gift For the Year Ahead

2011-11-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

Garden and outdoor toys are a great idea for Christmas gifts. Think about it- while many gifts will be enjoyed on the day and then put away on a shelf or in a cupboard, garden toys are something that can be used whenever there is nice weather throughout the year, as well as all summer long. Plus, the best garden and outdoor toys can be enjoyed by more than one person, as many are sturdy enough to warrant being passed on to other people in years to come.
As Christmas gifts they are a great idea as they can be appreciated for a very long time, much more than a pair of socks or a basket of bath products. There are outdoor toys of all shapes and sizes, and ranges for both adults and children to get something out of during the year ahead. There are child-sized vehicles, play houses, swings, slides, paddling pools, trampolines and more for children to enjoy. Then there are things the whole family can use, such as large pools, family sized trampolines, water guns and so on.
Sports equipment is a great idea for an outdoor gift. Things like home badminton sets, garden goal posts and other different sporting goods would make great Christmas gifts that can be enjoyed long after Christmas is over. There are also outdoor goods that are perfect for winter, such as sledges and snowboards. What about bikes? Bikes for children and adults are available in countless models and kinds, meaning there's one for everyone.
The key with these gifts is to keep in mind they need to be both fun and practical, as well as in keeping with the needs and preferences of the people you are buying them for. With all of those things considered, you can easily find great garden toys and outdoor equipment that will bring a smile to the faces of your friends and family. Any gifts that can help those that you care about life the lifestyle they dream of are perfect for Christmas, and you can easily find reviews of the best outdoor toys online to make your choice.

Andrew writes for countless pop culture and collectibles blogs as well as being a magazine journalist and SF author. For more great Christmas ideas, check out more of the best garden toys online!

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Educational Toys That Stimulate Chidren's Mind

2011-10-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

When children start to walk more steadily, run, push, pull, climb and grab things - they are growing from infants to toddlers. Between their first and second birthdays, they are self centered and get busy doing various things like - to flip light switches, pour things in and out of containers, unwrap packages and empty drawers. The toddler stage is very important in a child's life. It is the time between infancy and childhood when a child learns and grows in many ways. Everything that happens to the toddler is meaningful.
How do I know this?
I am a mother of two boys who I love dearly. I decided to stay home and raise my children with the best education and values I could provide. We made sacrifices and reorganized our lives for them. I learned the importance of educational toys as we saw our sons playing together with toys all around the house. This is when I realized the value of educational toys and started lulu-baby.com [http://lulu-baby.com], to help other parents provide greater richness and diversity to their children. I truly believe that educational toys are the one option that can make every parent’s dreams true.
A toy which is worthy, gives colorful success in the end. Same goes to educational toys too. Each toy can have some educational benefits. Sometimes you may have to ask your self, “How can this toy be educational to my child?” The answer may be obvious, or you may have to dig a little to find a lesson or value with the toy. But, the rewards are worth it as you watch your children play with the toys in a meaningful way, and actually learn something in the process.
Here are some ideas to encourage your children to get more out of their fun time.
Baby Einstein
Infants and toddlers are apparently big fans of the Baby Einstein series, with titles like Baby Mozart, Baby Shakespeare, and Baby Van Gogh making regular rounds in their family's DVD. I learned the importance of educational toys. The shine in my sons’ eyes while watching several of the Baby Einstein Videos taught me that I can provide happiness to the little one. "These videos have a lot of colors and shapes that hold his attention," says another Mom. The complete line of Baby Einstein educational videos and DVDs stimulate the growing mind.
And what child doesn’t love the magic of puppets? Whether it’s a ferocious dragon, a wiggly octopus or a friendly dog. These lovely puppets offer terrific “hands-on” fun that is sure to ignite any child’s imagination. Playing with Baby Einstein Puppets with a parent or adult helps babies interact with others and aids in language development.
Little Tikes
These are for babies 6 to 36 months and are aimed at giving children experience. My older son enjoys climbing up and down the Castle Climber has been one of our best investments towards our children's growing up.
Little Tikes offers a variety of play sets that help fuel their imagination. Little Tikes toys do not entertain children the way so many toys and products do. They allow a child's imagination to run free and expand. There are not a lot of bells and whistles, but children do not need that all the time. They get sensory overload. Little Tikes produces toys that not only allow children to educate themselves, the toys encourage imagination and education.
Little Tikes makes shape sorters, infant sensory stimulation toys, outdoor toys that promote large motor skill development, and even furniture for a nursery, toddler or preschooler's bedroom or playroom.

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Little Tikes Country Cottage Playhouse

2011-08-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Playhouses have been around long before toy manufacturers ever thought of making them out of plastics. Moms and dads used to build playhouses out of wood or whatever is available to them. Toddlers then had enjoyed playing with their own home-made version of the playhouse has been in existence long before the first plastic playhouse was introduced.

But because of today's fast-paced lifestyle, parents do not have the luxury of time to build one from scratch. This is why plastic playhouses have made their way to an increasing number of homes. The latest one from the Little Tikes Company provides a feel of country living with their Country Cottage Playhouse model. This great playhouse is easy to assemble that it will just take a few minutes to build it from the box. It requires minimal handling and tools such as a screwdriver and a hammer.

The playhouse goes a long way in stimulating a child's imagination with several features and build-in toys that come with the pack. Girls and boys alike will definitely have a grand time playing with the pretend sink with swivel faucet. The push button pay phone helps your toddler improve hand motor skills. The stove top also comes with click knobs to help toddler get the feel of actual cooking.

They will truly enjoy pretending to live in the country with these great built-in features designed to kindle your child's imagination. The playhouse is also designed a miniature house that comes with a full height door and four windows that open and closes easily. Ideal for outdoor play, children can even make a garden or porch in front of it. It is also good for indoor activities but advisable for large playrooms as to maximize its size. The inside of the playhouse is just enough to fit two small chairs and two or three standing kids. Day care kids will love to have this as a centerpiece of the indoor or outdoor playground.

The Little Tikes country cottage is available in primary colors for more neutral picking, pink which is most appealing for little girls and green for little boys. It is suitable for toddler's aged two up to six years old. Reviews by parents share that their kids enjoy the playhouse beyond these years. It is also sun resistance so you don't need to worry about risk of fading colors which is very common with other brands of playhouses.

This playhouse is ideal for parents with more than one kid as its sturdy design is made to outlast your first child's toddler years. This will surely be one of your best buys for your kids. A playhouse is one of the nicest toys your toddler can ever receive. It not only stimulates your child's imagination, it also helps improve their motor skills by learning to control bodily movements.

If you're looking for a great gift for your toddler or an addition to your child's play place, the Little Tikes country cottage playhouse is a great choice for thoughtful parents like you.

Make sure to see the newest activity set from Little Tikes - the Little Tikes Swing.

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Safe Childrens Outdoor Toys

2011-06-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Playing is a part of growing up. It is a process that helps children evolve and learn. Playing is equal to learning and it is important that you give your child a chance to explore the outdoors. Curbing or restricting your child's outdoor activities can affect their development. Both, mental and physical development is influenced due to lack of playing. Childrens outdoor toys are a must-have in every house. It is a part of growing up and you should not deprive your child of it. These simple pleasures of playing can have a cascading effect on their lives and personality. Playing outdoor games helps in improving their strength and stamina, which is turn sharpens their mind and makes them smart. Not just that, exposure to a world outside the four walls is very important to get rid of inhibitions and shyness. If your child is an introvert, introducing outdoor games can help him come out of the shell. There are many more benefits, which will make a difference in your child's life and your life too.
Benefits Of Playing Outdoors

Before we discuss the benefits, we are sure you would like to know about the Childrens outdoor toys. There is a wide range of toys like trampolines, playhouses, sand pits, Childrens swings, slides, climbing frames, sea saw, Childrens picnic table, winter toys, and much more. These toys are easy to install and can be moved around easily. They are made from weather-resistant good quality material. They are durable and last for years. The toys can be accessorized to attract and retain attention of your child. You can upgrade these toys with add-ons and maintain high interest level of your child. These toys are safe and of the best quality. There is no risk of rough edges, pointed corners, or sharp objects that may hurt your child. The material used for Childrens outdoor toys is wood or plastic. There is minimal usage of metal and even if they use metal, it is covered and padded adequately to avoid any injuries. In case of trampolines, you could also buy safety nets, so you don't have to monitor the child while he or she plays. Coming back to the benefits of playing outdoors, here are the advantages.
Challenging: These outdoor games are physically challenging and mentally stimulating. They help in improving logical thinking and challenge the ability of your child. It works as stimuli, as your child is interested in achieving results.
Builds stamina and endurance: Childrens outdoor toys help in building stamina. They improve the endurance level of your child and utilize the unspent energy. Physical activity is the best way of improving cardiovascular function of the body.
Physical exercise: Playing outdoor games is like an exercise for your child. It will keep him or her fit and active. Laziness usually creeps in when the child doesn't play outdoor games and is only interested in indoor games. Whether it is toys like Childrens swings or slides, the physical movement is very important. Other activities like sports and cycling are also a good form of exercise for your child.

The site http://www.outdoorplayworld.co.uk has a collection of exciting Childrens outdoor toys, including climbing frames, slides, playhouses, and many more. You can also find winter toys, sandpits, picnic tables, and others.

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The Best Outdoor Play Gym - Little Tikes Hide and Slide Climber

2011-06-14T01:56:00.000-07:00

Thinking of providing your kids some interesting outdoor activities? I would highly recommend you to get them Little Tikes Hide and Slide Climber. The particular combination is the most suitable outdoor play gym for toddlers and preschoolers to burn their boundless energy. At the same time, the kids are given the chance to enhance their imagination and creativity.
Let's take a look at its structure. Basically, this playset includes high walls, a wavy slide and a secret area below the main platform. How can kids be attracted to this playset so much?
• First thing first, let's see the climber. The kids find it easy to climb because the climber comes with large and easy-to-reach steps. They can climb up easily to the slide. The climbing process helps to increase the lung capacity and cardiovascular fitness.
• The wavy and gentle slide provides smooth rides and soft landings to the kids. The first time players will not feel afraid and the most important is this slide is safe. Kids will not get hurt. Both slide and working steering wheel help the toddlers to have better physical development. Without going to the park, your young children can enjoy playing in the yard at anytime they like.
• Here comes the most exciting part, i.e. the secret play area underneath the platform. It is used by the kids to play hide and seek games. The cool hideout and crawl tunnel are specially designed to enable the kids to enjoy adventurous experience. At the same time, the kids are able to gain more self-confidence through the games.

For parents, you are free to choose different models of slides for your kids. There is a wide variety of selection which you can choose from such as regular slides, water slides, bounce house slides, slides with climbing walls, etc. If you require customized slide to suit your children's special needs, you can place your order directly from the manufacturers. If you just need normal one, you can get it easily from any toy store or online retailer.
I would say it is not hard to assemble different parts of this playset. You can install the hide and climber easily by referring to the step-by-step manual which comes with the set. The best thing about this set is it can be located in your backyard easily without taking up much space. Furthermore, it can also be taken apart easily when you need to clean the yard. You can even keep it in store when you are not in use. This set is durable and it can be used for long-term. Furthermore, the cost of getting it is very reasonable.
In the young children's point of view, it is indeed exciting to climb and slide with their playmates. Moreover, they can play hide and seek to find out who the winner is. In order to give a memorable and enjoyable childhood to your beloved kids, you are recommended to get a colorful set of Little Tikes Hide and Slide Climber for them from today onwards. I am sure they will love this new toy very much.

Find out more about Little Tikes slide and swing sets for kids, visit SwingSetsForKids.org.

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Climbing Frames As an Alternative to Games Consoles

2010-06-04T10:04:00.001-07:00

I'm going to propose that rather than buying the latest games console for your little cherubs you should perhaps consider something that might actually get them active and out of the house - a climbing frame for example.
Okay, so I'm going to sound pretty old as soon as I write this, but I can't help feeling that children had a more balanced lifestyle when I was a boy. There you are, I sound old. Why do I feel this way? Well since you ask, it's because these days we seem to be creating children who would much rather stay indoors and play on the latest games console than even contemplate going outside. It doesn't seem to matter even if it's a wonderfully glorious spring or summer day - given the choice, members of the latest XBox generation will almost certainly choose to sit in a darkened room holding their plastic controller.
What are the alternatives? As a kid I remember spending hours upon hours outside making dens, tree-houses, things to jump over with my bike, and so the list goes on. However, if their imagination just isn't up to it you can stimulate them by buying something like a climbing frame or swing and slide set rather than the latest games console. Admittedly you will require a little more outdoor space for a climbing frame than for a Wii. As a result it may not be practical for all of us, but you don't need much space for the smaller of the range of modern climbing frames that you can get. Remember, it doesn't have to compete with the local park for size and variety in order to provide a very healthy playground for your children!
So, to conclude, next time you are pestered for the latest console or PC or even the latest game for a console you already own, why not consider putting the money toward a timeless outdoor toy such as a climbing frame. Your children can proudly play with it with their friends next time they come round. They will happily pretend it is anything from a rocket, through a castle to a ship. Many hours of good healthy fun can be had and they will expend a lot more energy than sitting in front of a computer monitor or TV screen literally twiddling their thumbs to rank up more 'gamer points'.
Right, mini-rant over. Perhaps things weren't all that much better when I was a boy, and maybe I'm just jealous that I had to be content with the occasional game on the BBC B-Micro with graphics that appeared to have been drawn by a toddler. Nonetheless, I'm sticking to my story and I'll be telling it to my children and my grandchildren assuming I get some one day.

Alan Glenn is a father of two very energetic boys, who like to play on his XBox. He is also owner of a site that features a range of climbing frames including the compact Little Tikes Jungle Climber.
Alan from http://www.littletikesclimbingframes.co.uk/

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Finding the Right Climbing Frame For Your Children

2010-06-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

Climbing frames are a great activity to keep kids occupied in your home or garden. There are some great benefits and choosing the right one may seem like an easy task but there are a couple of things to consider when purchasing. One of the most important things to consider when buying a climbing frame for your child's is safety. Whilst it is highly recommended that parent supervise their children at all times, you will also want a frame that is built with safety in mind. This means looking for a climber that is both sturdy and well built with no sharp corners. You will also need to make sure you assemble it correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ideally you would also look for a frame that is plastic and not metal or wooden as this will more likely prevent your kids form hurting themselves. Another consideration to account for is the size of the climbing frame. There are many different sizes available and price will vary according to this as well. Whether you choose a large or small frame will also depend on the size of your garden or room (if you decide you want an indoor climber).
There are many brand names available on the market including TP and Little Tikes. TP provide Climbing frames for older children and are often made from wood whereas Little Tikes climbers are more suitable for toddlers and younger children and are made from plastic.
When choosing a climber you will also want to see what there is for your child to do. Again, there are simple climbing frames and more challenging ones depending on your budget. As standard you will get a frame with a slide but you can also get ones with multiple levels, tunnels, hiding areas and playhouse stations.
Whichever climber frame you choose it will be a long lasting purchase especially if you have many children.

Little Tikes Climbing Frame

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Why Children Love Little Tikes Toys

2010-05-17T09:46:00.000-07:00

Little Tikes Toys

There is such a variety in toys these days that kids have come to expect a big variety to choose from and Little Tikes have stepped up to the task by providing a huge range of fun products for kids. This brand has a big range to suit children of all ages, genders and skill levels.
Littles Tikes Toys For All Ages Groups
This popular brand has a large range of products to suit all ages starting from babies. Their baby products are designed for safety and fun. Their range will help babies to develop their skills and senses while enjoying discovering new things. Their toddler products help toddlers to develop motor skills and also encourage exercise in young ones while letting them have fun while doing so. Preschool toys help children to develop skills in pretend play which helps them develop their imagination, interaction and communications skills.
Little Tikes Outdoor Products
The outdoor range of products are very popular and include play houses, playgrounds, slides, swings and more. They have kitchens, workshops, picnic sets, ride on cars, and many more toys which kids love using their imaginations while pretending to cook, work and drive their own cars. Their ride on toddlers range is extremely popular and include cars, wagons and bikes.
Other Little Tikes Toys
Their range also include inflatable products such as inflatable slides. These are very popular and give hours of enjoyment. There are also a number of sporting products like basketball hoops and soccer goals, so if your family enjoy a particular sport then these products can help to build skills in your child for that sport.
There is also a big range of educational products helping children to develop many different skills including imaginations, creativity, hand and eye coordination and motor skills.
Little Tikes gear can keep children entertained for hours and since they have such a large range there is something for everyone. Your child will have many hours of fun and enjoyment with their Little Tike toys.

As a mother of three I am passionate about toys that are both safe and educational. Visit our website to learn more about Little Tikes Toys.
Our website also discusses the different Ride On Toddlers Toys available.

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Little Tikes Toy Company

2010-05-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Little Tikes was founded in 1970 and is headquartered in Hudson, Ohio. It has grown to be a worldwide producer and marketer of quality children's goods. Little Tikes is synonymous with durability. Their products stand up to the test of time and are handed down to the next generation. Little Tikes has remained a viable company because they never rest of their past achievements. They keep striving to offer children around the world the best and most innovative toys that they can design. Little Tikes has a 5-pronged approach to their success. The five areas to ensure that their products are the highest of quality: customer satisfaction, teamwork, innovation, marketing and continuous improvement.
Little Tikes also understands that sometimes the products of the past still resonate with all generations. The best example of this is the Cozy Coupe® Car. The red and yellow car celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2009. Worldwide, there are been a total of six million units of this classic toy sold. It is a ride-on toy that has a removable floor that allows a child to move the cars themselves. The design is unparallel with a high seat back for comfort, cup holders in the back, an ignition that clicks and a gas cap that can be opened and closed.
While Little Tikes honors and continues tradition, it also has created outdoor toys that have become the standard and the leader in the industry. An example is the 8-in-1 Adjustable Playground. This piece of playground equipment is a combination of a playhouse and a climber. Among the features that kids love is the crawl-through tunnel, an extra-long slide and a smaller slide. This allows kids of varying ages to play on this equipment together. This is a definite advantage of families with more than one child.

Little Tikes Playhouse

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Popular Children's Outdoor Toys

2010-05-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost upon us and if you're like me you're trying to figure out what kind of new children's outdoor toys to buy this year. There are so many to choose from that it may be overwhelming to try and figure out what may be both entertaining and stimulating at the same time.
One of the best things that children's outdoor toys can do for our children is to provide some good old physical exercise. There's nothing worse than a child who would prefer to hang out in the house, in front of the TV, instead of getting out in the good old fresh air. Toys that encourage our kids to get out into the fresh air are a great way to motivate our kids to get out and exercise.
When we stimulate our kids to get up and move, we are actually stimulating the development of both their gross and fine motor skills. It's also a way to build self-confidence and independence. You'll also see an improvement in both balance and co-ordination. These are some of the most popular children's outdoor toys that you have to choose from:
Outdoor Playsets
Outdoor playsets come in a variety of styles. You can choose from swingsets, climbers, or playhouses. Each style will provide a little something different so you'll be able to choose the playset that is right for your child's personality and skill set.
Ride On Toys
Childrens ride on toys also make outdoor toys. These great rides are age appropriate for children as young as toddlers all the way up to teens. You can find styles that your children will love to push, pull, or pedal around. For those who are a little older, you can check out the battery operated models.
No matter what type of children's outdoor toys that you choose, you can be sure that your child will love you for it. They'll be off on a new adventure every day and you'll see them have the best summer fun that they've ever had!

Children's outdoor toys are a great way for your children to have fun in the sun while still being developmentally stimulated. Outdoor playsets like the Little Tikes Endless Adventures Town and ride on toys like the Radio Flyer Scooter are some of the most popular outdoor toys for kids of all ages.

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5 Educational Benefits of Little Tikes Outdoor Toys

2010-05-09T09:29:00.001-07:00

Kids need to be active. Playing outside is the best way for them to develop muscles and large motor skills like balance. There are additional health benefits like increased cardiovascular fitness and lung capacity. Without access to the outside, most kids find some creative way to burn energy, whether it's bouncing on the bed, somersaults on the sofa, or literally climbing the walls. Most parents prefer to have their kids spend some time out of the house.

The outside world offers endless possibilities from climbing trees to kicking rocks. Parents can encourage outdoor play by providing kids with the right toys. A large variety of outdoor play toys are available from brands like Toobeez, Step2 and Little Tikes. Little Tikes offers a wide range of products designed to cover a wide range of activities, including gross motor play, pretend play, and social play. Kids love to swing, climb, and slide. There are castles and houses, sand tables, and picnic tables. Other outdoor toys include balls, mats, and kites.

Apart from promoting healthy physical activity, outdoor toys have educational benefits as well:

1. Babies and young children explore the world through their senses. Cognitive growth occurs as they see, smell, hear, and touch objects. Feeling the breeze, rain, and sun is a direct learning experience, just like crunching autumn leaves and smelling blossoms. Natural curiosity leads children to become budding scientists. Rain dripping on a slide, pouring sand in a sand box, and crawling through a tunnel are all learning experiences. Kids discover gravity, motion, water properties, volume, numeracy, and much more. These early experiences give children an innate understanding of some principles later introduced in math and science.

2. Developing physical skills requires practice and freedom of movement. As these skills improve, a child builds a sense of self and increased confidence. Trying new things and healthy self-esteem follow along. Little Tikes climbers combine different challenges from sliding to climbing. Swinging back and forth leads to knowing how to "pump the swing" and use feet to stop or start. Repetitively sliding allows kids to learn how to control their speed and balance. Climbing builds muscle strength and balance. Balls develop hand-eye (or hand-foot) coordination. Other outdoor toys support further motor skills.

3. Free time outside allows kids to create their own games. A little imagination turns outdoor toys into space rockets or fortresses, while balls easily become a complicated sports challenge. Add in a few props or a timer to further the possibilities.

4. Playing in a group involves many different skill sets. Communicating with other kids requires an expanded vocabulary, listening, clear speech, as well as sharing and taking turns. These social skills are associated with improved academic outcomes once children reach school age.

5. Some outdoor toys can be built differently each time. Like other construction toys, items like Little Tikes Waffle Blocks and Toobeez encourage an understanding of spatial relations, architectural principles, balance, and much more. Taking construction toys outside allows children to make larger structures and expands the creative possibilities. Even knocking down large construction projects shows kids some basic engineering concepts.

Author Bio:

Joe Kanooga is a father of two kids, a successful business owner and the author of numerous articles about Little Tikes and other toys and hobby items. Click here to download our free outdoor toys guidebook filled with helpful tips, ideas and information.

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Little Tikes Play Climbers

2010-05-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

Little tikes variety climber

With us all realising the many benefits of outdoor play rather than indoor activities the little tikes range has seen a massive surge in popularity. The fact that they offer so many options for outdoor play activities has seen sales of their products increase quite dramatically.

Choosing the best model for our children can be difficult. The play climbers are by far the most popular range though. These play centres combine many activities in one area. They often come with a slide, a climbing wall and a swing. Many of them have extras such as telescopes and tunnels to give a great play experience to young children.

The most popular model is the castle climber and we can see why. As well as a great slide and swing we also get a telescope and a wheel. Children love being able to mix up their play times and this is what is so great about the range. We can let our children have hours of fun without concern for their safety.

The whole range is extremely safety orientated and all models are extremely robust. This, and the endless variety is what makes them all so popular. Combination play centres give our children the stimuli they need to develop well and to experience many different activities safely and in the home environment.

If you are looking for a great way to keep your children amused and playing safely at home then you have found the answer. Little tikes play climbers are the perfect solution to keeping your children safe and playing happily.

For little tikes slide climbers please see the little tikes climber and slide site. There you can cheaply buy the little tikes castle climber and many other climbers.

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