by Lisa McGee

Created on: August 06, 2008   Last Updated: August 14, 2008

Dollhouses: The Perfect Toy to Encourage Imaginative Play

Children of all ages can find enjoyment in playing with dollhouses. There are so many types of dollhouses, that it is not difficult to find one to match the maturity and/or interest of a wide range of children, both boys and girls. Dollhouses can make very special presents for birthdays or Christmas or provide a great project when purchased unassembled in kits.

Toddlers
Toddler age children, both boys and girls enjoy playing with dollhouses. The best type of dollhouse for this age group are simple, made of durable plastic or wood. They come with dolls and furniture that are chunky and easy to manage for little hands. When shopping for a toddler proof dollhouse, look for sturdy, simple houses that have no small pieces.

Preschoolers
This age group is ready to move on to more complex houses with different themes. You might not think of dollhouses as playthings for boys, but there are many sets that are designed with a theme appropriate for either sex. Sets that include garage or airport themes, even train themes, might peek the interest of boys or girls. The best dollhouses for this age group come furnished and usually do have some very small pieces.

School Age
Beginning very early on, many girls develop an interest in Barbie dolls and the whole world that revolves around her. Barbie can be anything she wants to be, from a vet to a teacher and you will be able to find the appropriate gear and house to match. She can live in a plastic mansion with it's own elevator, or a travel camper. For boys of this age, there are action figures who come with different their own Hideouts. Dollhouses for this age group come with many tiny pieces, down to ice cubes for Barbie's iced tea!

Dollhouses for the older child and beyond
Traditional dollhouses can be purchased unassembled at craft stores, or assembled at specialty stores. Occasionally, you can find an old one at a garage sale or auction. These houses are fantastic toys, but not for the very young. The furniture and fixtures are not as sturdy as plastic and often a choking hazard. Unassembled, these dollhouses can make for quite a project for parent and child. In making one, the child can learn about construction, electrical wiring and even interior decorating! Most traditional dollhouses do not come furnished, that's half the fun! You can purchase kits for making furniture or come up with your own designs, using found objects.

Regardless of the type of dollhouse you decide is best for your youngster, it is bound to provide hours of enjoyment, as they create their own world.

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