HABA tentI often get asked by parents or grandparents about specific kinds of toys they want recommended for their kids or grandkids. I thought as we approach Christmas and the holidays I would share my answers in case it’s helpful to others.

Today’s question was from a dad, “Hi, I want to get them some indoor camping tents or teepees.  Is there a brand you could recommend?  Also, I was painting with my 3 year-old son yesterday and it was really fun.  Any suggestions on painting kits for him?

Here’s my response:

Pacific Play Tents makes fun tents. I think the dome tents are light, less tippy and would hold more kids. Their teepees are varied–a canvas one you can paint, and some that include a waterproof floor.  Hape’s tent is very sturdy with thick fabric and solid wooden poles. I have had some feedback from parents that smaller teepees can be tippy when the kids get active inside!  HABA makes beautiful, good quality tents that are great for pretend play and very cute I might add–designed for princesses, knights, fairies or pirates.

As far as painting goes, depending on your child’s age,  I would just get some nice big brushes and different washable paints by Crayola for 4 and up. These would require pouring some paint in little dishes and learning to wash your brush before using a different color. Or even simpler, for a first painting experience at home, just get watercolors. Here is one in a case to keep things neat (ha!) by Crayola.