Role playing and make-believe play are terrific for your child’s development. Most preschoolers and young kids love to play house — particularly pretending they are cooking in the kitchen. Recently, our family had the opportunity to review the KidKraft Junior Chef’s Play Kitchen with Stools, and my kids and I couldn’t have been more thrilled.
Many times when you see play kitchens, they are created from flimsy plastic or just don’t look realistic at all. Modeled after a modern kitchen, this one from KidKraft is completely different. It features ‘stainless’ appliances, ‘granite’ countertops and a totally contemporary look. It includes a divided refrigerator, oven, cooktop, microwave and sink. Plus, it even has a breakfast bar with two stools.
What I love about this play kitchen is the quality wood construction and ample storage space. I have four young kids (ages 2 to 4) and they can all play in the kitchen. Usually it’s two of them doing the cooking, while the other two sit at the “bar” and wait to be served. It’s very cute to watch and I love that all four of them can play together.
We have a ton of play dishes, pots and pans, etc. and they have been making use of them in their kitchen everyday since we opened the box.
Assembly required
Speaking of opening the box… For most large toys and play sets like this, assembly doesn’t come easy. However, the instructions with the KidKraft kitchen are very clear. It took my husband and I under two hours to put it together, and it wasn’t frustrating at all.
Bang for your buck
Though this play kitchen might be more expensive than many other play kitchens on the market, this is truly an example of “you get what you pay for.” This kitchen features durable, high-quality construction, clicking and turning knobs, and a very realistic look. Each of the stools can support up to 80 pounds, and the refrigerator even includes a working chalkboard. When making your decision on what to buy your kids this holiday season, consider not just the price tag but the quality of the merchandise and how often your kids will actually play with it.
The KidKraft Junior Chef’s Wooden Play Kitchen is available now from One Step Ahead, priced at $299.95. They also have some other terrific toys and products for kids, including other kitchen items — such as cookware, a toaster and even a toy espresso machine.
Win this play kitchen!
Right now, you have the opportunity to win the KidKraft Junior Chef’s Wooden Play Kitchen with Stools here at SheKnows.com. The contest ends on Dec. 27 and is open to US residents ages 18 and over.
