Kids’ Backyard Playground Transformation With Monica Mangin

An outdoor play kitchen provides a place for kids to practice their culinary make-believe skills. You can create a simple countertop using lumber and a little paint. Open shelving, dish storage, a plastic bin sink and a rack for kitchen utensils add a realistic touch.

Here are a few items for accessorizing a mud kitchen:

• Plastic storage totes
• Wall hooks
• Sink grid
• Exterior spray paint (Monica uses # 1259788)

Convert a backyard fence into a pretend farmers market using some hooks, wire baskets and buckets. Complete the look with an old-fashioned painted wood sign.

Here are a few play farmers market essentials:

• Wire baskets (Monica uses # 791533)
• Metal paint buckets
• Cup hooks

Give your kids a blank canvas for expressing their creativity with this erasable plexiglass art board. It can also serve as a menu for a mud kitchen, a price list for your farmers market or anything else your kids can dream up. It’s the perfect addition to any backyard playground.

Here are some items you might need:

• Plexiglass sheet
• Wood boards
• Squeegee

Add a pop of color to your kids’ outdoor play area with this festive pennant banner. All you need for this DIY project is a few, simple craft items.

Here are some essential supplies:

• Canvas drop cloth
• Rope
• Glue gun
• Paint samples