5 Best Wooden Playhouses for Toddlers

As parents deeply invested in our children's well-being and development, we know firsthand how crucial it is to provide them with the best environment for their growing brains to thrive. If you reflect on your childhood playdates, you can likely recall cherished moments spent in pillow forts, makeshift clubhouses, or even – if you were fortunate – an outdoor playhouse. 

Researchers have linked imaginative play to improved cognitive development, and pretend play in playhouses encourages problem-solving, creativity, and abstract thinking.  Engaging in pretend play is instrumental in the development of "Theory of Mind". This is a cognitive milestone in child development, where children learn to understand that others have different thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. It allows children to simulate and empathize with various social roles and scenarios. Recognizing these advantages, we aim to introduce you to the best wooden playhouses for toddlers, highlighting their superiority over plastic models in nurturing these essential skills.

To make your life a little easier (because parenting is basically juggling while riding a unicycle) we’ve compiled a list of the best wooden playhouses for toddlers complete with product reviews, pros, and cons so you can confidently choose the right playhouse for your family.

Are Wood or Plastic Playhouses Better?

We always want the best for our children, and that includes the world they will inherit. Wooden playhouses are typically constructed from natural and eco-friendly materials, making them a sustainable choice. Wooden playhouses for toddlers are also preferred over plastic alternatives due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. 

However, not all wooden playhouses are created equal. When choosing a wooden playhouse for your toddler, make sure to select one that is crafted from non-toxic, child-safe materials. Here at AlignedPlay we handpick all the products listed on our website so you can be sure they are of the highest quality.

Best Wooden Playhouses for Toddlers Outdoor

Best wooden playhouse for toddlers with slide: WHOLE WOOD PLAYHOUSES PRINCE TWO STORY PLAYHOUSE

Description:

Looking for a playhouse that's a total showstopper? Say hello to the Prince, a two-story wonder that's like a fairy tale come true in your backyard. This isn't just any playhouse; it's a blend of modern farmhouse chic and enchanted castle dreams. Picture your little ones ruling their kingdom from this gorgeous wooden structure, complete with not one, but two slides for those thrilling escapes, a rock wall for mini adventurers, and a sandbox for hours of treasure hunting.

This playhouse is perfect for both toddlers and school-age kids, making it a long-term addition to your family's outdoor fun. And don't worry about the hassle of setting it up – we've got installation totally covered. Imagine the endless hours of imaginative play, the royal tea parties, the brave mountaineering expeditions – all happening right in your own backyard. It's about creating a space where your kids can explore, grow, and make those magical childhood memories. And hey, it's so stylish, you'll love looking at it just as much as they'll love playing in it!

Specifications:

Size: 6x8 ft playhouse with a 12 ft height, plus a 6x8 ft balcony
House type: solid wood playhouse with a second floor
Floor surface: 48 sq ft ground floor, 44 sq ft second floor, and a 48 sq ft balcony
Windows: 5 opening safety glass windows
Doors: 3 opening doors with windows (2 kids' doors, 48" each, and 1 adult door, 60" tall)
Roof material: metal roof for year-round use
Terrace size: 8x3 ft (24 sq ft)
Second-level balcony size: 6x8 ft
Included accessories: wooden terrace with railings, wooden flower boxes, wooden kids’ furniture set (table, two chairs, and a bench), wooden ladder for second-floor access, wooden curtain rails with curtains, stairs to the second-level balcony, climbing wall, slide, spiral slide, and sandbox

Pros:

• The black-and-white palette, functional windows with flower boxes, and sleek metal roof will add a touch of sophistication to your backyard. You can even customize your colors if you'd like!
• Comes with adventurous play props including two spacious floors, multiple slides, a climbing wall, sandbox, and stairs
• Painted with eco-friendly, water-based paints and weather proof
• Very spacious with 48 sq ft downstairs, 44 sq ft upstairs, and a 48 sq ft balcony
• Free Installation

Cons:

• Due to its generous size, you'll need ample backyard space to accommodate this playhouse
• Premium playhouse and features comes with a premium price tag

Best playhouse for 5 year-old: WHOLE WOOD PLAYHOUSES GRAND FARMHOUSE PLAYHOUSE

Description

Step into the enchanting world inside the Grand Farmhouse outdoor wooden playhouse for toddlers and older kids. With an 8'x8' footprint and an 8x3 ft terrace, this playhouse is a modern and elegant space for your children to let their imaginations run wild. When our babies turn five, they become more independent and need a space where they can express this newfound autonomy, engage in imaginative play, and develop their social and cognitive skills in a nurturing environment. The Grand Farmhouse is a rustic option for families who appreciate both aesthetics and durability.

Specifications:

Size: 8x8 ft playhouse with an 8x3 ft terrace 
Height: 9 ft
Interior height: 8'2"
House type: painted solid wood playhouse with a loft
Floor surface: 64 sq ft
Windows: 4 opening safety glass windows
Doors: 2 opening doors, one at 48" for kids and another at 60" for adults
Roof material: durable metal
Terrace size: 8x3 ft (24 sq ft)
Included accessories: wooden terrace with railings, wooden kids' furniture set (table, two chairs and a bench), wooden ladder for accessing the loft (which can be removed as kids grow), wooden curtain rails and curtains

Pros

• Weatherproof and built to last, thanks to its Nordic spruce construction and metal roof
• Spacious and comfortable with an 8'2" interior height
• Eco-friendly water-based paints 
• Bonus features include a wooden terrace, furniture set, ladder to access the loft, and curtain rails with curtains
• Free installation in selected locations, ensuring a hassle-free setup for your family
• Mid-range price tag compared two story models

Cons

• Enrichment features like slides or sandboxes not included
• Additional playhouse decorations shown in photos are not included 

Best Indoor Outdoor Playhouses for Toddlers

Best indoor outdoor playhouses for toddlers with easy set up: ELLA'S MODERN PLAYHOUSE IN WHITE

Description:

Ella's Modern White Wooden Playhouse is a dream for both kids and parents, blending child-friendly design with easy convenience. Its hassle-free, no-tool setup in just five minutes lets you easily move the playhouse indoors during winter, ensuring the fun continues all year round.

Your little ones will love diving into imaginative play within this sleek, white playhouse, and you can personalize it with additional features like flower boxes, windows, or a door. Ella's Playhouse isn't just a play space; it's a versatile haven for your children's adventures, adaptable to any season.

Specifications:

Dimensions: 6 ft L x 4 ft W x 5 feet H
Material: durable premium wood
Suitable for: for indoor and outdoor use
Safety: CPSC certified for child safety during play
Color options: Also available in navy or natural wood

Pros:

• Say goodbye to DIY headaches – this wooden playhouse for toddlers requires no tools and sets up in just five minutes, making it a breeze for busy parents
• This playhouse is super easy to set up, so you can move it from inside to outside in no time at all! Perfect for mixing things up and keeping the little ones excited!
• Crafted right here in the USA, by parents, ensuring top-notch quality and safety standards
• This playhouse adds a touch of elegance to your space, suitable for a statement piece or a cozy nook

Cons:

• There's a $199 surcharge for deliveries inside condos or apartments
• Base/floor sold separately 

Best indoor outdoor playhouse for toddlers: 2MAMABEES OCEANO PLAYHOUSE

Description:

Introducing the 2MamaBees Oceano Wooden Playhouse for toddlers where playtime can double as a hands-on classroom for essential life skills. This modern farmhouse is thoughtfully designed to nurture your child's development with a fully-equipped kitchen complete with child-sized cooking tools and play food. The built-in potted garden offers an opportunity to learn how to care for plants, while the charming snack bar encourages the art of hospitality. With a welcoming front porch and roomy wooden bench, this playhouse is a haven for hosting playdates and imaginative adventures. We have ours outside, but this playhouse makes an awesome indoor option!

Specifications:

Material: furniture-grade cedar wood
Included accessories: built-in potted garden, built-in kitchen, child-sized cooking tools, child-sized play food
Suitable for: domestic use indoors or outdoors
Safety: complies completely with all CPSC requirements, passed all F963 toy testing, low VOC, PVC free, lead safe, no PFAS
Overall dimensions with bench: 90" inches (L) x 68" inches (W) x 73" inches (H)
Bench length: 29.5"
Door height: 27"
Door opening: 48" x 18"

Pros:

• Encourages practical life skills like kitchen basics, gardening, and hospitality
• Crafted from furniture-grade cedar wood and built to withstand years of play
• The inclusion of child-sized cooking tools and play food makes learning fun and interactive
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor play, offering year-round entertainment
• The playhouse meets all safety standards, ensuring peace of mind for parents

Cons:

• Not suitable for children under 24 months due to small parts and fall hazards; adult supervision is required for younger children
• Oversize/freight shipping surcharge of $150

Best Wooden Playhouses for Toddlers Indoor

Indoor playhouse for 2 year old: 2MAMABEES AJURE WHITE PLAYHOUSE

Description:

Searching for a stylish play space that blends seamlessly with your living room decor? The Ajure Playhouse, a chic black and white wooden structure, revolutionizes indoor play. Envision your toddler's joy as they engage in pretend gardening or cooking adventures in their miniature kitchen with adorable wooden play food.

Perfect for style-conscious moms, this playhouse offers a sleek design that complements modern home aesthetics while being perfectly sized for imaginative play without cluttering your space.

Best of all, it's surprisingly affordable. This playhouse isn't just a toy; it's an investment in your child's creative and independent play, adding a touch of elegance to your home without stretching your budget. Enjoy those beautiful play moments as they unfold, crafting a special space loved by both you and your little one.

Specifications:

Material: furniture grade cedar wood
Included accessories: built-in potted garden, built-in kitchen, child-sized cooking tools, child-sized play food
Suitable for: domestic use indoors or outdoors
Safety: complies completely with all CPSC requirements, passed all F963 toy testing, low VOC, PVC free, lead safe, no PFAS
Overall dimensions: 50" x 46" x 68"
Door height: 22"
Door opening: 49" x 13.5"
Interior dimensions: 38" x 37" x 67"

Pros:

• Encourages practical life skills like kitchen basics, gardening, and hospitality
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, ensuring year-round play opportunities
• Most affordable price tag of all models

Cons:

• An oversize/freight shipping surcharge of $150 applies
• Not recommended for children under 24 months due to small parts and fall hazard; adult supervision is advised

Why choose AlignedPlay for your wooden playhouse purchase? 

Because we're parents too, and we understand your needs. With us, you'll enjoy free shipping on orders over $99 in the USA (some exclusions apply), a price match guarantee for the best online prices, hassle-free 30-day returns, exceptional customer service, and our commitment to your satisfaction. We handpick our products for quality, and if anything ever goes wrong, we're here to make it right. Still have questions? Feel free to give us a call at 800-980-8685!

FAQ

1. Are playhouses good for toddlers?

Absolutely! Playhouses offer a safe and stimulating environment for toddlers to explore, play, and develop essential skills such as creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction.

2. Are wood or plastic playhouses better?

Wooden playhouses are often preferred over plastic ones due to their durability, eco-friendliness, aesthetic appeal, and customizable options. Wood provides a more natural and inviting play environment.

3. What kind of wood is used for outdoor playhouses?

Commonly used woods for outdoor playhouses include cedar and redwood. These woods are naturally resistant to decay and insects, making them ideal choices for durability and safety.

4. Are playhouses worth the money?

Yes, playhouses are a valuable investment in your child's development. They provide a dedicated space for imaginative play, fostering creativity, social skills, and physical activity.

5. Is 8 too old for a playhouse?

While the age at which children outgrow playhouses can vary, many 8-year-olds can still enjoy and benefit from them, especially if the playhouse is spacious and designed for older children, like the Prince Two Story Playhouse.

6. What age is appropriate for a playhouse?

Playhouses are suitable for children as young as 1 or 2 years old and can continue to be enjoyed by older children up to 8 or even beyond, depending on the design and size of the playhouse.