Is your playroom haunted by boredom? This week, Charlene DeLoach reveals why Halloween toys might be the pumpkin spice of playtime. A seasonal trick that resets routines, sparks creativity, and keeps kids engaged without adding clutter. From spooky collectibles to festive crafts, discover how a few intentional toy picks can turn October play from “trick” to treat.

In this episode of the Playroom Chronicles podcast, we discuss the importance of Halloween toys in revitalizing playtime for children during the October slump, strategies for incorporating seasonal toys into family routines, and emphasizing the value of novelty and tradition. The conversation highlights six specific Halloween-themed toys that encourage creativity, connection, and independent play, while also fostering family traditions and memories.

FEATURED TOYS:
Tiny Nightmares (Just Play)
Deddy Bears (INNOV8)
Deddy Bears Tomb Lock Game (Moose Toys)
Haunted Ruin (Playmobil)
Createon Magnetic Tiles (Crayola)
Made By Me Halloween Window Art (Horizon Group)

Takeaways

• Halloween toys can break through the October slump.
• Seasonal toys add novelty and excitement to playtime.
• Creating a 'toy crypt' can reinvigorate play each year.
• Tiny Nightmares are great for older kids.
• Deady Bears offer a cute yet spooky option for younger kids.
• Family game nights can be themed around Halloween.
• Magnetic tiles can be used for creative play and decor.
• Playmobil products can serve as both toys and decorations.
• Crafting Halloween window art can be a fun family activity.
• Incorporating seasonal toys can build anticipation and excitement.

Chapters

00:00
Reviving Playtime with Halloween Toys

00:46
Dig Out The Toy Crypt

04:12
Top Halloween Toy Recommendations

04:16
Tiny Nightmares by Just Play

05:23
Deddy Bears by Innov8

07:08
Deddy Bears Tomb Lock Game by Moose Toys

08:10
Creaton Magnetic Tiles from Crayola

09:18
Haunted Ruin by Playmobil

09:58
Made By Me Halloween Window Art from Horizon Group

10:37
Halloween Help

Keywords

Halloween toys, playtime, family activities, seasonal toys, kids boredom, toy strategies, creative play, family traditions, independent play, toy storage

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In this episode of the Playroom Chronicles podcast, Charlene DeLoach dives into the stress so many parents feel this time of year—when every scroll, store, and site is shouting which toys to buy. She unpacks why most holiday gift guides leave families feeling overwhelmed (and kids underwhelmed), and shares the story behind her solution: the HoliPlay Summit. Created by a toy expert and mom who’s seen it all, this free online event helps parents cut through the noise, shop with purpose, and gift toys that actually get played with.

Takeaways

• Most toy gift guides are more noise than help
• The holidays often bring clutter—not connection
• HoliPlay was designed to calm the chaos, not add to it
• You can shop smarter and still keep the holiday magic
• Less overwhelm = more meaningful play
• The summit is your go-to tool for intentional gifting
• Created by a toy expert who’s also a real parent
• Watch from anywhere, whenever you need it

Resources

🌐 HoliPlaySummit.com

🎁 playroomchronicles.com/fun-vault

Keywords

holiday toys, toy gift guide, parenting tips, toy clutter, intentional parenting, holiday overwhelm, gift guide help, child development, play-based learning, toy expert

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Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

The Play Power of Off Label Learning

In this episode of the Playroom Chronicles podcast, Charlene DeLoach discusses the importance of distinguishing between educational toys and toys that can be used for educational purposes through creative play. She introduces the concept of 'off-label learning,' where everyday toys can be repurposed to support children's learning in math, literacy, and problem-solving without the pressure of traditional educational tools. Charlene provides examples of various toys, such as Magna-Tiles, Lincoln Logs, Spirographs, Jelly Bands, Legos, and remote control cars, illustrating how they can be utilized to enhance children's learning experiences in a fun and engaging way.

Takeaways

• Educational toys often come with labels that can deter kids.
• Off-label learning allows for creative educational opportunities.
• Magna-Tiles can be used for hands-on math lessons.
• Lincoln Logs can help with literacy and counting skills.
• Spirograph encourages understanding of patterns and symmetry.
• Jelly Bands can be a fun way to practice spelling.
• Legos can enhance reading comprehension through building.
• Remote control cars can teach geography in an interactive way.
• Reframing toys can extend their educational value.
• Encouraging play-based learning fosters curiosity and problem-solving.

Resources:

playroomchronicles.com/fun-vault

Keywords

educational toys, off-label learning, play-based learning, child development, creative play, learning through play, hands-on learning, parenting tips, educational strategies, toy recommendations

Chapters

00:00 Intro
01:53 Off Label Learning
03:29 Magna Tiles
05:41 Lincoln Logs by Basic Fun
07:13 Spirograph by Playmonster
08:22 Jelly Bands by WeCool Toys
10:15 LEGO Creative Brick Box by The LEGO Group
12:45 Remote Control Cars
14:22 Play Recap
15:10 Playbook

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