Playroom Storage

Just for a starting point when considering how to conquer the challenge of playroom storage, you might want to check out the "Circo Activity Tables with Bins" which are constructed of wood and can be purchased separately and built upon. Since the two pieces are sold separately, even if a one-time purchase, the tops will come as two single units. One possible adaptation would be to get an inexpensive piece of Plexiglas and set it on top of the desk. Then your children's favorite artwork could be placed under it for display and easily changed when their next creative streak takes them. It can also be easier to clean than the wood tops.

The one drawback to these activity tables are they are not really designed to be used as a desk, as it is only 6" high. The key is the large bins, which have handles, and pull out from under the table. They include wheeled coasters which are not necessary to have to attach. It should be just as easy for the child to pull it out if on a carpet for example. You could also look for activity tables that are marketed specifically for Lego play centers.

One of the more interesting offerings in the area of activity tables are the wooden combination train or puppet sets that are manufactured by Gadget Masters and are available through many resellers. Their innovative play and storage products include wooden train or puppet sets, that are set up in the bin and accessible when the top is removed. Options are varied as a trundle drawer can be added, which will roll out from under the activity table, and the separate train sets can then be connected. There will not be the problem of having to set-up and take down the creations assembled or looking for all the pieces.

The trundle drawer (one large or two smaller ones) can also just be used for storage as the little one's train or puppet set grows. These great storage and play sets also come with full-color play boards with sceneries to build upon. So by getting a 'double-decker train table', with the option to add a trundle drawer, you actually will have three play boards in the end. The top of the table can be a chalk board or other play scenes. Most will be adaptable to several toy (train) manufacturers and should be clearly marked as to which ones. These also make for very nice Lego play centers.

A third, and probably least expensive option, is to find cubes to organize a play area (or the garage and work areas). There are many interesting options available along this theme. Cubes can be made of any number of materials including, metal, mesh, plastic, or various woods. Colors and sizes can be easily coordinated and are readily available. You will also find many are designed to be interlocking for stability or can easily be secured to a wall for added safety.

Don't ever overlook old cribs, a playpen, or even a bookcase with adjustable shelves that could become a new home to all the stuffed animals and toys. Then there are still a wide variety of the familiar toy chests available.

Finally another creative, inexpensive remedy for playroom storage is a large, sturdy cardboard box. What child can resist one? (Think Christmas and all the toys left spread about as the children find creative uses for all the colorful, large boxes the gifts came in.) Let them decorate them as they wish and use them for later play and storage.