13 Kids’ Playhouses Parents Are Buying This Spring

by Kate LowethMarch 25, 2024

Now is the time to deck out your backyard for summer. Kids’ playhouses—which afford the same amount of fun without the possibly (probably) very germy play places—are selling like hotcakes. We discovered some of the most popular kids’ playhouses parents are buying right now, from beloved brands like Little Tikes and Step2. Are you going for the wooden playhouse in a modern style or opting for the epic two-story playhouse with a slide? Read on to find your perfect match!

Cozy Escape Wood 2-decker Playhouse with Twisty Slide

two story townhouse style playhouse — Bed Bath & Beyond

It's the New Orleans vibes for us, but the twisty slide doesn't hurt.

Cozy Escape Wood 2-decker Playhouse with Twisty Slide ($1,217.69)—Buy Here!

KidKraft Wooden Playhouse

two little girls playing in outdoor modern playhouse — KidKraft

We love this white playhouse that allows you to jazz it up with their favorite colors! There's picnic seating on one side and a serving window on the other.

KidKraft Wooden Playhouse ($299.98)—Buy Here!

Step2 All-Around Playtime Patio

This fun option combines a playhouse and water table for hours of outdoor fun. The little grill and removable canopy are the icing on the cake!

Step2 All-Around Playtime Patio ($178.02)—Buy Here!

Barbie Seaside Wooden Outdoor Playhouse with Attachable Doll Table and Chairs

Literally what else could your Barbie-loving kiddo ask for? This is perfect for those warm spring and summer days.

Barbie Seaside Wooden Outdoor Playhouse ($379.00)—Buy Here!

Farmhouse Style Playhouse with Flower Boxes

white farmhouse style playhouse — Wayfair

This lovely playhouse includes a built-in kitchen, adorable wooden play food, and cedar window boxes to create your own potted garden!

Farmhouse Style Playhouse with Flower Boxes ($949.00)—Buy Here!

Montessori Wooden Playhouse

This adorable playhouse is full of learning opportunities. Made out of Baltic birch plywood, it is designed to encourage children's creativity, communication skills, fine motor skills and first educational skills. With numbers, letters, clock parts and mathematical symbols, there's tons for kids to do. Bonus: it's super easy for parents to put together without any additional tools needed!

Montessori Wooden Playhouse ($801.90)—Buy Here!

Sunny Solid Wood Playhouse

Made out of durable wood, this playhouse is fun for the little ones. Flower boxes and a wooden table make this one extra cute, too.

Sunny Solid Wood Playhouse ($189.99)—Buy Here!

Play & Fold Away Modern Farmhouse

white tall kids playhouse with slide — Target

Not only is this cute, but the best part is the unique folding mechanism that allows it to be easily stored when not in use and the carrying handle that makes this the most convenient climber for your family!

Play & Fold Away Modern Farmhouse ($169.99)—Buy Here!

Yurt Playhouse

How cute and boho is this yurt-shaped playhouse that doubles as a playpen for babies? We can totally see this set up as a backyard oasis with tons of pillow poufs and some twinkle lights.

Yurt Playhouse ($1,113.27)—Buy Here!

Backyard Discovery Cedar Playhouse

This cedar playhouse comes with a stove, a toy sink and a play cordless telephone for extra fun when friends come over.

Backyard Discovery Cedar Playhouse ($280.98)—Buy Here!

Reign Two Story Playhouse

two story playhouse with swingset — Maisonette

What a stunner, right? With a kitchen downstairs, little living space upstairs, and a slide and swings to boot, you can't go wrong here.

Reign Two Story Playhouse ($3,900.00)—Buy Here!

Waldorf Playhouse

This open-ended play structure is full of pretend-play opportunities for kids of all ages. Snag that cloth covering as an add-on and you'll have shade from the summer sun if you want to place it outside. You can also add on the play stove if you want to get your kids cooking.

Waldorf Playhouse ($413.01)—Buy Here!

Lattice Fence Detail Playhouse

green and blue plastic kids playhouse — Fruugo

This playhouse comes with a little door flair, plus an outdoor grill space.

Lattice Fence Detail Playhouse ($1,049.00)—Buy Here!

—Kate Loweth & Kate Cartia

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Winter Escape! 7 Nearby Cozy Cabin Getaways

by Kerry CushmanNovember 26, 2022

Grab your mittens and scarves, we’ve found the coziest family rentals in Big Bear, Idyllwild, and Mammoth Lakes

In the winter months, families all over the country escape to San Diego to enjoy the sunshine and warmer temps. For those lucky enough to enjoy San Diego weather year-round, it’s the time of year when we crave snuggling up in front of the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa, watching the snowfall, and breaking out our fluffy mittens and scarves. A cozy cabin rental, within driving distance, is the answer to our wintertime wanderlust! From chilly days exploring nature or playing in the snow to unplugged evenings with big family fun. Check out these nearby Airbnb rentals in Big Bear, Idyllwild, Lake Arrowhead, Ojai, and Mammoth that are perfect for a getaway this winter.

Blackbird A-Frame with Mountain View—Big Bear Lake, CA

Big Bear is an obvious choice for families that want to escape to the mountains. This A-Frame is perfectly located, tucked away in the trees of Lower Moonridge in Big Bear Lake. It's situated in the heart of it all, making it an ideal location for your winter adventures. It's a two-minute drive to Bear and Summit Mountain and a three-minute walk to the main ski shuttle. It's also so well equipped that you can just spend your time at home snuggled up to the vintage, wood-burning stove or unwinding in the hot-tub.

Sleeps: 7 guests
Price: Starting at $400/night
Online: airbnb.com

Whiskey Creek Cabin—Idyllwild, CA

We wrote about the beauty of Idyllwild in our round-up of best fall weekend escapes and it's just as lovely in the winter. Relax beneath the tall pines and let the kids run wild at the Whiskey Creek Cabin in Idyllwild. This multi-level Airbnb is surrounded by nature and a welcome respite from city life. Cozy nights can be spent around the fire stargazing at the night sky or on the upper deck with a glass of wine while the kids play on the spacious property. Don't forget Fido on this family getaway, The Whisky Creek Cabin is dog friendly.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $266/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Far Out A-Frame Cabin—Idyllwild, CA

Sleeping loft for the kids? Check. Deck with hot tub surrounded by nature? Check. Retreat to this cozy A-frame cabin in the San Jacinto mountains that checks all the boxes for a relaxing family getaway. Situated on an acre of land, this mountain cabin has plenty of nature to explore yet is only one mile from the restaurants and shops in the center of town.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $326/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Red Door Cabin—Idyllwild-Pine Cone, CA

Enjoy modern touches with the serenity of nature at The Red Door cabin in the wooded community of Pine Cove. Just minutes from the village of Idyllwild, this 3-bedroom cabin is at an elevation of 6,000 feet with 4 acres of forest to discover. After a chilly winter day exploring with the kiddos, soak into the modern free-standing tub in the master bathroom or the sunken jacuzzi on the deck.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $301/night
Online: airbnb.com

Bohemian Cabin—Topanga, CA

You're not going to get snow, but you may have a deer sighting! Hidden from the hustle of the city, this bohemian cabin in the Santa Monica Mountains will feel like it's worlds away from the stresses of city life. Spend quiet evenings in the outdoor cedar soaking tub, read a book with the kids in the hammock. or take to one of the onsite or nearby trails for a hike. With plush furnishings and luxurious details, this bohemian cabin will feel like a magical retreat.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $605/night
Online: airbnb.com

Caravan Outpost Tiny House—Ojai, CA

Ready for a cozy cabin, but urban dwelling is much more your thing? Check out this comfy bohemian tiny house at Caravan Outpost in Ojai. This unique property has 10 Airstreams and one tiny house available for rent surrounded by lush botanical gardens and stylish chill spaces. Families will love the plentiful assortment of games available and nighttime s'mores around the campfire.

Sleeps: 5
Cost: $237/night
Online: airbnb.com

The Canyon Lodge: Mammoth Lakes

If you have skiers or snowboarders at home, think about a trip to Mammoth Lakes. This condo is just less than a half-mile from Canyon Lodge and a mile from The Village. It is a condo with a cabin feel, equipped with two bedrooms plus a loft, and two and a half bathrooms. The mountain retreat features wooden vaulted ceilings and large forest-facing windows to take in the scenery. The beautiful brick fireplace is perfect for a cozy family game night after a day on the slopes.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $105/night
Online: airbnb.com

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

Incredible Bookcases for Kids That You Can Buy

by Gabby CullenAugust 26, 2022

Give your little ones an extra special bookshelf to keep their favorite stories with easy reach and watch them get psyched for story time, every time. From adjustable designs to bookcase storage complete with a seat, these kids’ bookcases and reading nooks have it all.

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: Monogrammed Bookcases

best bookcases for kids — WardasManufacture via Etsy

It doesn't get more personalized than having your name hold your favorite books. Whether you pick an initial or spell out the whole name—these plywood shelves can be left as is, or if you want, paint them a custom color when you get them home.

To buy: WardasManufacture via Etsy, $365 per letter

Incredible Bookcases for Kids: Spruce Tree Bookcase

This tree-inspired bookcase is so very meta—books are made from trees and now a tree is holding up the books. Durable and functional—each bookshelf can hold 12-15 books, but it can also support your kid's ever-growing collections of rocks, fallen leaves, and pinecones.

To buy: West Elm, $229

Incredible Bookcases for Kids: Tractor Bookcase

cool bookshelves for kid's room — ImagineYourShelf via Etsy

Even little farmers like to pull up a good book and this handmade tractor certainly delivers. There is ample space for books and whatever else your agriculturist might need handy.

To buy: ImagineYourShelf via Etsy, $495

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: All-in-One Book Nook

Sure a regular bookshelf is great but a cozy, little reading nook? Even better. This all-in-one piece provides a comfy spot to sit while keeping your favorite books within easy reach.

To buy: Amazon, $235

Incredible Bookcases for Kids: English Phone Booth

incredible bookcases for kid's room — Homary

London's calling! This bookcase, re-imagined after the iconic English phone booth is both delightful and cheeky. Of course, if you want to take it to the next level, fill it with Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and your kid's Harry Potter collection.

To buy: Homary, $240

Incredible Bookcases for Kids: Cactus Bookcase

bookshelves for kid's room — 2modern.com

If your vibe is more bohemian, then pick up this non-prickly cactus for your desert babe. Shelves vary in size which means those odd-shaped books will have a safe place to land.

To buy: 2modern.com, $400

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: Dollhouse Bookcase

Keep favorite books and knickknacks safe at home with this house-within-a-house bookshelf.

To buy: Amazon, $480

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: Floating Books

Showcase up to 30 of your favorite books while turning them into wall art with DehaDesign's inventive display solution.

To buy: DehaDesign via Etsy, $66

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: Bookworm Shelf

The OG for floating, bendable shelves, this Kartell Bookworm never goes out of style. Curl it in a circle or have it trail along the wall, it can be modified to meet your ever-growing bookshelf needs.

To buy: Kartell, $1065

Incredible Bookshelves for Kids: DIY Book Chair

If nothing will satisfy your little book lover until they can sit and (literally) surround themselves with their favorite tomes, then this DIY from Instructables is just for them. Inspired by the "Bibliochaise" that retails for $5,000, this one can be made for a tiny fraction of that cost.

For more information, check out the book chair how-to on Instructables.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

4 Creative Ways to Introduce Kids to Poetry

by Amber GuetebierMarch 14, 2022

Think all poetry has to rhyme? These inventive ways to teach kids about poetry are all about the free verse. All you need is imagination, a sense of humor and a few craft supplies. Read on for our four ways to teach your little bohemian the fine art of poetry.

For the Baby Beatnik
Beat Generation writer William Burroughs’ “cut-up” method works strikingly well for the half-pint crowd. Think of it as a collage with words. Get out the safety scissors, grab some magazines and cut out words. You can also write words on paper and cut them out. Once you’ve got them cut up, toss them in the air. The order that they land in is the order you write down or recite.
Tip: Stick to words kids will recognize like animals and colors and don’t forget your articles (a, an, the) and conjunctions (and, but, if). Schoolhouse Rock flashbacks, anyone?

photo: Niall David Photography

For the Nature Lover
If you prefer your poetry in the garden Emily Dickinson-style, try rock art poetry. Using waterproof ink and stamps or paint or paint pens, write words or individual letters on smooth stones. Arrange the words into a simple verse. As an added bonus, you can rearrange it anytime.

For the Aspiring Avant Garde
Book spine poetry is about as simple as they get and a great intro for kids to poetry. Just stack books spine out and recite. For example:

What am I?
My Father’s Dragon
Demolition
The Dark

For the Free-Lovin’ Free Verser
Elementary school teachers will tell you the secret to those adorable poems your kids bring home are based on this easy method known as cinquain (pronounced “sin-kane”). It’s a five-line poem, with a 1, 2, 3, 4, 1 sequence. There are variations on the method, but here’s one you can try with yours:

Line 1: one word, noun
Line 2: two words, adjectives to describe the noun in line 1
Line 3: three words, verbs that relate to line 1
Line 4: four words, feelings that relate to line 1 (make this one a complete sentence, e.g., “It makes me laugh.”)
Line 5: one word, noun/synonym for line 1

Example:

Rabbit
Fuzzy and white
Hopping, Sniffing, Hiding
How I Love You
Bunny

—Amber Guetebier; photos by Amber Guetebier except where noted.

Featured image: iStock

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Simple Yet Seriously Impressive Entryway Storage Solutions

by Oz SpiesJanuary 10, 2022

The entryway of any home is a tricky spot—it’s a magnet for piles of shoes, backpacks and unopened mail but is also the first impression of your home your guests get when they come over. Luckily, you can turn your cluttered entryway into an organized landing spot with these clever storage solutions. Keep reading for the easiest entryway decor ideas for small spaces and beyond that will not only fit your style but also your budget.

Best Entryway Decor: Extra Small Spaces

If the floor space in your small entry space is too small to accommodate a furniture-like storage solution, look to the wall to solve your organizing needs. The beauty of this DIY pegboard is that it can be customized to fit your space—make it as big or small as you need it. If picking up the drill is too much of a commitment, you can also buy off-the-rack versions on Etsy.

Click here for the full instructions for the wooden pegboard wall from Vintage Revivals.

Best entryway storage solutions — Wayfair

Looking for an entryway organizer on a budget? This affordable bamboo entryway table/shoe rack is the solution you need. This narrow beauty offers everything, including separate spaces for umbrellas and boots, three shelves for all those shoes and a spot for your bag and backpacks.

To buy: Wayfair, $53

Best entryway decor for small spaces — 1919 Home Goods via Etsy

An extra-narrow entryway can still get its upgrade with an extra-slim console table. Pair this table with a hook or two, and you've got a place to put your mail and keys when you walk in the door. We love that this sustainable pine wood table can be ordered in different lengths, heights and stains—ensuring it fits in with your particular space and decorating style.

To buy: 1919 Home Goods, $149 & up

Another great small space solution? Use lucite furniture. This clear console table doesn't take up a lot of space visually but offers storage solutions for catch-alls on top and a basket below. Add a welcoming piece of art like this Why Hello art print to warm up the space.

To buy: Target, $473

Best Entryway Decor: Hall Trees

This classic cottage hall tree is supplied by none other than the DIY mecca known as Home Depot. Pull-out drawers, hooks for hats and coats, upper shelves for books and decor make this all-in-one piece an organizer's dream.

To buy: Home Depot, $909

Dreaming of being a minimalist? This hall tree takes you there with its clean lines and neutral-colored bench seat. With just enough spots to keep the things you need handy, getting cluttered and overwhelmed is just not an option with this entryway piece.

To buy: Wayfair, $336

Thanks to this corner hall tree, typically overlooked (and wasted!) space is now a landing spot for books, shoes, coats and more, thanks to ample hooks and shelves galore.

To buy: Amazon, $244

For those watching their budgets, head to eBay, where there are a variety of new, in-the-box hall tree options. This one comes with a shoe rack, a set of double hooks and a bench in a neutral black iron frame and sandalwood combo and costs just a little over one Benjamin Franklin.

To buy: eBay, $107

—Oz Spies & Andie Huber

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Amazon’s Cozy Cabin Collection Is a Major Vibe for Chilly Months

by Sarah ShebekOctober 25, 2021

If you’re ready for full-blown hygge as the weather cools, make sure your space is ready to serve maximum coziness! Amazon has a new Cozy Cabin collection packed with blankets, lighting, storage and accessories to make you feel like you’ve escaped to the woods on a wintry day. And in traditional Amazon fashion, most items are both stylish and affordable.

You’ll currently find eight pages of home goods to choose from, with many priced under $50. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites for you to score as we head into November!

Woolrich Throw Pillows

Hypoallergenic with lumbar support, these cozy pillows take us straight to a mountain getaway. Buy here, $20.

Pendleton Queen Grand Canyon Multi Sherpa Blanket

Pendleton adds the ultimate classic Western flair to any home. This sherpa blanket pulls double duty with maximum coziness, too. Buy it here, $55 on sale.

GE LED Vintage Night Light

This clever plug-in light will give your space a little vintage flair, perfect for capturing that classic cabin style. Buy here, $16.98 for two.

Rugshop Geometric Bohemian Design Area Rug

This rug really ties the room together (and saves your feet from cold floors, too). Buy it here, $44.50 on sale.

—Sarah Shebek

All images courtesy of Amazon

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Bohemian Rhapsody: 10 Boho Chic Baby Shower Invitations

by Meghan Yudes MeyersApril 24, 2021

If your favorite mama-to-be is decorating her nursery with macrame, rainbows and potted plants, consider throwing her a boho chic baby shower to celebrate her soon-to-arrive baby bundle. We rounded up our favorite boho-style baby shower invitations that feature muted colors and natural themes, like rustic wreaths, hand-drawn feathers, watercolor cactuses and floral rings. Scroll down to get into the Bohemian spirit with these gorgeous printed invitations, online invitations and editable templates!

Boho Flowers

Designed by Cass Loh, this sweet ring of flowers features burnt orange, dusty pink and purple blooms. You can customize this floral invitation to feature more coral colors, red hues or even add a pop of teal so you can match your baby shower invitation to the cake and decor.

Available online: From $1.25/ea. from Cass Loh via minted.com.

Hello Baby Boho

If mom-to-be is waiting to reveal her baby's sex, check out this gender-neutral baby shower invitation featuring a delicate illustration of macrame suspended from a single, ivy-adorned branch by Palm Paperie DIY.

Available online: From Palm Paperie DIY, this editable template is $9.99 via etsy.com.

Boho Feathers

Is mom-to-be ready to nest? Celebrate her nesting instincts with this feather-adorned baby shower invitation. Hand-drawn feathers in shades of blue give this baby shower invitation an earthy feel. If you're looking to customize your cards to fit your needs, this is the invitation for you; you can choose 8 different colors, 6 shapes and 12 different paper types and finishes to give this card a personal touch.

Available online: From $2.171/ea. by Lucky Plum Studio for zazzle.com.

A Rustic Wreath

Earthy mamas will rejoice with this no-print baby shower invitation option. Go completely green with an online-only invitation that lets you track guest responses. This rustic wreath features a ring of woodland berries and wild foliage.

Available online: From $39/up to 40 people from Stacey Meacham Design LLC via greenenvelope.com.

Taco 'bout a Baby

Whether mom-to-be is experiencing taco cravings beyond Tuesday or she just loves all things cactus, these whimsical and stylish desert-themed invitations promise a baby shower that people will taco 'bout!

Available online: From $4 for a customizable download by Hunny Prints via etsy.com.

Boho Rainbow Printable Templates

Whether mom-to-be is having a rainbow baby or just rejoices in dreamy bands of color, this rainbow-themed baby shower invitation features a boho palette of gold, mauve and dusty rose.

Available online: $12 for a printable template from Aim Beth Designs via etsy.com.

Woodland-Themed Boho Greenery

This watercolor baby shower invitation features a bold wood slice surrounded by soft green foliage to lend the perfect Bohemian vibe to any boho chic baby shower. This instant download baby shower invitation can be easily personalized and printed at home.

Available online: $14.99 for a customizable download via paperandthings.com.

Boho Floral Feathers

This jewel-tone baby shower invitation has two lovely feathers set against sprigs of grasses with delicate hand-drawn jewels and crystals adorning the corners. Customize and print invitations (and follow-up thank you notes!) for a boho-chic party from start to finish.

Available online: From $10.75 for a customizable JPEG file from TDA Party on Paper via etsy.com.

Truly Custom Llama Invites

For your favorite llama mama (to be!), send a baby shower invitation illustrated with her spirit animal! Basic Invites provides a completely customizable card; pick and choose the colors of the border dots, change the tassels and pom poms, and choose an ink color for a truly personalized baby shower invitation.

Available online: From basicinvites.com; prices vary based on custom options.

—Meghan Yudes Meyers

Featured image: Boris Gonzalez via Pixabay

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Here’s Why Families Are Dancing in Their Kitchens

by Erica LoopApril 8, 2021

In-home discos are the new way to celebrate! According to stats from L.O.L. Surprise!, 65 percent of American households are staging impromptu dance parties in their kitchens.

L.O.L. Surprise is celebrating its new Dance Dance Dance toy line with a few fun facts about family dance parties. Along with the number of fams turning their eating areas into makeshift discos, the brand’s survey also found that 42 percent of kiddos think dad’s dances are totally embarrassing—but only 37 percent believe mom’s moves are equally as bad.

photo courtesy of MGA Entertainment

Isaac Larian, CEO and Founder of MGA Entertainment, conducted the research as part of the L.O.L. Surprise! Dance Dance Dance toy launch, said in a press release, “Dancing is always something that has brought people together from around the globe. We love that our toys have inspired our fans, parents and children, to find escape and joy together in kitchen disco parties, and that they have embraced dance as a way to connect no matter what is happening in the world around them.”

When it comes to the time and the tunes, the survey stats show that Saturday at 6:00 pm and Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” are the most popular picks. Following Queen’s iconic anthem are Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling” and Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”

So what’s with all the dance parties? The data shows spending time together and the mood boosting effects of dance may have more than just something to do with the sudden uptick in at-home disco activities. Two-thirds of parents surveyed reported that dancing with their littles lifted their spirits and 82 percent said it always improves their mood. Fifty-five percent of parents also said they use family dance parties to let off some steam.

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: gradyreese via iStock

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American Girl to Auction Off Three One-of-a-Kind Collector Dolls Made With Thousands of Swarovski Crystals

by Jennifer SwartvagherNovember 18, 2020

Bid on one of three stunning dolls for a good cause. American Girl announced it has again teamed up with Swarovski crystals to create three one-of-a-kind collector dolls just in time for the holidays. The gorgeous gowns and complementary accessories took Swarovski couturiers over 330 hours to design and hand embellish more than 5,000 Swarovski crystals and crystal beads in 24 colors.

The American Girl Collector dolls will be auctioned off starting today through Nov. 25, 2020, at Americangirl.com/auction. The First Responders Children’s Foundation Toy Express program will receive 100% of the auction net proceeds. This program is designed to spread joy to children of first responders across America during the 2020 holiday season. The bidding for each American Girl Collector doll starts at $5,000.

“As the holidays approach, we know it’s more important than ever to show our gratitude to our country’s dedicated First Responders who have contributed and sacrificed so much to help our friends, families, and communities this year,” said Jamie Cygielman, General Manager of American Girl. “We’re pleased to donate the proceeds of these three exquisite one-of-a-kind 2020 collector dolls, plus thousands of Mattel toys, to First Responders Children’s Foundation to say thank you to these hard-working frontline heroes and bring some much-needed holiday sparkle to their children and families.”

In addition, Mattel and American Girl are donating more than $1,000,000 in retail value of toys to the foundation’s Toy Express program, including American Girl’s renowned 18” dolls and other popular Mattel products from Hot Wheels, Barbie and Mega Bloks. The toys will be distributed to thousands of first responder families nationwide through the end of the year.

“Thank you, Mattel and American Girl for the generous donation of thousands of toys to The First Responders Children’s Foundation Toy Express. And for selecting First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF) as the beneficiary charity of proceeds from the auction of the exclusive American Girl Collector dolls. Because of this partnership, First Responders Children’s Foundation Toy Express will bring joy to children across the nation during this holiday season,” said Jillian Crane, President of First Responders Children’s Foundation. “First Responders Children’s Foundation Toy Express will be gifting toys to children of first responders who are on the frontlines of COVID-19. We will also be delivering toys to first responder agencies and hospitals to share with children in their communities. FRCF supports nurses, firefighters, police officers, EMTs, paramedics, medical personnel, and 911 dispatchers who risk their health every day in selfless service to their local communities across the country.”

One of the three American Girl Collector dolls will be on display at the company’s flagship retail stores in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles through Dec. 10, 2020. The highest bidder will then receive their one-of-a-kind doll in a special display case via white glove delivery. The three collector dolls feature the following details:

2020 American Girl Sweet as a Rose Collector Doll

This stunning brunette doll is decked out in a petal pink ballet-style ballgown blooming with delicate organza rosettes. Each flower is individually adorned with Swarovski crystals, and the intricately beaded bodice and satin overskirt shimmer with more than 1,000 crystals and beads, making the doll sparkle no matter which way it spins. This exclusive outfit was completely hand-embellished by Swarovski couturiers; and includes a one-of-a-kind, crystal-encrusted tiara plus sparkling bracelets and earrings. The Sweet as a Rose doll is on display at American Girl Place-Chicago on Michigan Avenue.

2020 American Girl Boho Chic Collector Doll

With long honey-colored curls and an empire-waist gown, this elegant doll sparkles with modern bohemian flair. The ice-blue bell-sleeved dress has 2,200 hand-appliquéd Swarovski crystals and crystal beads, creating the dress’s spectacularly sparkly wavelike design. The sheer organza overlay is adorned with a web of metallic blue fibers for extra shimmer. The look also includes a beautiful matching tiara and earrings. The Boho Chic doll is on display at American Girl Place-Los Angeles at The Grove retail and entertainment complex.

2020 American Girl Fuchsia Feathers Collector Doll

This glamorous one-of-a-kind ballgown and accessories feature lavish layers of fuchsia, pink, and pewter feathers on the full skirt, creating an ombre effect that beautifully sets off the doll’s long black hair. The fuchsia satin bodice is embellished with 1,400 colorful Swarovski crystals and crystal beads. Strands of sparkling crystals and beads adorn the matching tiara and earrings, as well as peek out from the feathered skirt, so the doll glitters from head to toe. The Fuchsia Feathers doll is on display at American Girl Place-New York at 75 Rockefeller Plaza.

Eric Russack, Managing Director of Swarovski North America stated, “We’re thrilled to once again partner with American Girl to create this year’s bespoke collectible dolls and adding the Swarovski sparkle to their exclusive 2020 American Girl Holiday Collector Dolls. Our goal this holiday season is to make imaginations sparkle and who better to do that with than American Girl! And this year, we’re extremely proud to support First Responders Children’s Foundation and their work to support the children of our dedicated frontline heroes.”

To place your bid for the one-of-a-kind 2020 American Girl Collector dolls, visit Americangirl.com/auction. All of American Girl’s holiday products are available now at AmericanGirl.com and at American Girl stores nationwide.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: American Girl

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by Karly WoodMarch 28, 2019

Looking to update your home decor with some fresh vibes? Then you’ll want to check out all the new offerings from Target’s spring home collections! Now that warmer weather is upon us, Target’s signature brands like Opalhouse, Threshold and Project 62 have all revamped their lineups to signify the arrival of light and airy styles, bright colors and an emphasis on natural materials.

We’ve rounded up our fave finds and you can shop each collection by scrolling through!

Opalhouse Living Room Accents

When it comes to combining spring cleaning with style, Opalhouse has you covered. This season's finds include lots of natural textures like water hyacinth baskets, terracotta vases and even a gold bell bunting to add just the right amount of style to your bohemian look.

Also featured:

Get the entire look for under $270.

Easter Tablescapes from Threshold

When it comes to hosting this Easter, Threshold has you covered. The home brand is sprucing up their serving-ware with all things spring-related. With purple checked tablecloths, pink egg platters and bunny candy dishes, the delicate lineup of dishes and hosting essentials is a must this year.

Also featured:

Score this gorgeous tablescape for $160.

Modern Pastel Bedroom from Project 62

Dusty pinks and warm clays come together in what could be the ultimate homage to spring feels. Project 62's Mesa Collection is big on modern and comfort, and with pieces like a hammered drum accent, stoneware planters and pink-toned round mirror, this lineup is huge on style but won't break the bank.

Also featured:

Freshen your guest room for under $300.

Bohemian Candle Tablescape Collection

This spring, Target's boho brand Opalhouse has released gorgeous new Bohemian-inspired candles. Shop from 16 fragrances poured into beautiful vintage-inspired glassware in lovely fragrances like Moroccan Moon ($12). You can also shop tin candles starting as low as $6 to get the fresh spring air flowing.

––Karly Wood

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