How to Design an expandable DIY PlaySpace (Part 1)

So many people have asked me this question, either in person or online. My general rule of thumb is that it is safe, but also expandable and adaptable as kids age.

We started out at around 7 months old, when crawling really became a well-developed function… We saw the usual Pack-n-Plays, but they were so small. We also saw the free standing gated playpens, but those were often an eye-sore and still relatively small. Especially if you wanted to have a fenced in area, but still allow exploration and movement.

So we designed our own and started with this set-up:

 

We connected two Summer Infant Custom Fit Gates (from Amazon) to surround a sectional sofa (so adults had comfy seating area) and used two Massage / Gym Mats (from Amazon) to cushion the bottom. The mats were tremendously helpful when kids were learning to sit, crawl, stand, and eventually walk (or jump…). Especially helpful if you have very active toddlers that eventually like to jump / launch themselves from things. As for the gates, the grey mesh is a nice color and design that is soft enough to blend well with most home decor. The mesh is also helpful for visibility and avoiding getting limbs (fingers / arms / legs) stuck. 

As the kids move into toddler and preschool age, we expanded the space and rotated out some toys / furniture. We used 4 Summer Infant Custom Gates (from Amazon) and 4 Massage / Gym Mats (from Amazon). The play area is clearly marked and helps us confine all toys into this area. It helps keep the rest of the house clean (aka free of toys), but also helps us know that any missing toy or piece must be in this area. This is not only a favorite space for our family, but also a fave hangout spot for all the little friends as well. This set-up also allows me to grab or do something quickly without worrying / panicking (or go to the bathroom at a normal human pace).

As you can see, the space was large enough to accommodate a corner play kitchen (from Amazon), a train table (from Amazon), a slide playset (from Amazon), and even a tent (from Amazon)! So there’s constantly lots to do! And if they do call for you, you can clearly hear them and see them. Thanks to the mesh and the gates’ height.

We have a rotation system with our toys, so they can ask us to bring in other items (if they clean up all the other toys), such as a trampoline, car race track, LEGO’s, ride-on toys, musical instruments, etc.

For more detailed information on DIY activity corner, click here.

 

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