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Role-playing games (or “playing pretend,” as my oldest daughter always called it) — are a fantastic way for kids to stretch their imaginations, build social skills, and learn problem-solving—all while having a blast. Whether they’re pretending to be chefs whipping up a pizza or brave explorers traveling through the jungle, make-believe play is something that just comes naturally to kids.
Playhouses are great for these kinds of adventures. They give kids their own special place where they can fully dive into these make-believe adventures. offering a dedicated space where kids can fully immerse themselves in their chosen roles.
In this post, we’ll explore a bunch of fun and creative play scenarios that transform any playhouse into a world of endless possibilities.
Classic Role-Playing Game Ideas
Sometimes the simplest ideas are the most fun. These timeless role-playing games (that you and I, and our parents, probably all played_ are easy to set up, and they encourage kids to act out familiar, everyday scenarios in their playhouse.
Household Helpers
One afternoon when my oldest daughter was about three, I was in the grocery store parking lot, trying to get her, her baby sister, and all the groceries into the car, when I dropped a plastic jug of milk on the pavement and it split open. The three of us all trudged back across the parking lot into the store (where, I think, they replaced my milk at no charge).
The next day I was cooking and I overheard my daughter nearby, walking around and babling to herself, “Oh no, the milk spilled! Okay, time to go get some more milk.”
Yup, kids love imitating the adults around them. And of course, a playhouse is basically their own mini version of a real home.
When they “play house,” kids can take on the role of parent, child, babysitter, or even a family pet. They can cook pretend meals in a toy kitchen, tidy up, host a tea party, or put dolls and stuffed animals to bed. (They don’t even necessarily need any additional toys or props to enjoy doing this.) This type of play helps them learn about and process the world around them
Pretend Store
Transform the playhouse into a bustling grocery store, bakery, or café. Kids can set up shop with toy food, a cash register, and menus, taking turns being the cashier, chef, or customer. They can “shop” for ingredients, prepare pretend meals, or take food orders. This game not only sparks creativity but also introduces basic math and communication skills as they handle play money and serve their customers.
Adventure-Themed Games
What kid doesn’t love an action-packed story or a daring quests? These games encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and big imaginations.
Pirate Ship
Set sail on the high seas by transforming the playhouse into a mighty pirate ship! Kids can be the captain, first mate, or sneaky stowaway as they navigate imaginary oceans in search of hidden treasure.
When I was a kid, I had amblyopia and had to wear eye patch, so I had an automatic prop for playing pirate out in the gazebo in my backyard. But even kids who are blessed with normal vision can easily be a pirate with a bandana, treasure map, cardboard telescope, boots, a clip-on gold earring, and yes, maybe even an eye patch. (They don’t cost much, especially if you buy a pack of them and have a “pirate playdate.”
Don’t forget to make a plank by either rolling out a line of tape or letting your kids borrow your rolled up yoga mat.
Castle & Kingdom
Transform your playhouse into a majestic castle where kids rule as kings, queens, knights, or even dragons. Whether they’re acting out their favorite Disney movie(s) or defending their fortress from imaginary invaders, kids will love dressing up and pretending to be royalty.
Community Helpers & Careers
Kids are often fascinated by the real-world heroes they see around them. After all, who wouldn’t think it’s cool to slide down a pole and then jump onto a fire truck? And my son said for months that he wanted to be a street sweeper, thanks to some Richard Scarry books (which I highly recommend).
These types of role-playing games lets kids step into the shoes of community helpers and explore different careers, all within the comfort of their playhouse.
Fire Station
Pick an afternoon to whip up a batch of cookies and bring them to your nearest fire station to tell them thanks for all they do. Maybe (probably) you’ll get a few free hats in return, if you ask nicely.
Then stop at the Dollar Store on your way home and get some pool noodles (makeshift hoses), and ta-da! You’re ready to turn your playhouse into a busy fire station. Kids can pretend to respond to emergency calls, “drive” their fire truck to the scene, and put out imaginary fires.
Playhouse Hospital
Transform the playhouse into a doctor’s office, hospital, or animal clinic where kids can play doctor, nurse, patient, or veterinarian. You can use stickers for bandages, a pad of paper and a pencil to write prescriptions, and a few dolls or stuffed animals to be patients.
Creative & Fantasy Play
For kids who love to dream big and explore imaginary worlds, these fantasy-themed games bring extra magic to playhouse time. There are no limits—just pure creativity and fun!
Superhero Hideout
Is there a kid alive was hasn’t wrapped some sort of blanket around over their shoulders and pretended to be a super hero? Your playhouse can become a secret headquarters where all the “superheroes” check in to discuss today’s mission to save the days with their various superpowers.
Space Explorers
Make your playhouse a spaceship and blast off into outer space and visit the moon, Mars, or an imaginary planet. Kids can become astronauts on a mission, scientists discovering new life forms, or even aliens who are visiting Earth.
Conclusion
Creative play scenarios in playhouses open up a world of imagination, allowing kids to explore different roles, express their creativity, and build important social skills—all while having loads of fun. Whether they’re running a market, embarking on a space mission, or saving the day as superheroes, the possibilities are endless.
Oh! And perhaps the most important thing: Be sure that you take some time to step away from your normal life and routine to play pretend with them!