When we moved into our new house a few years ago, I had every intention of buying my preschooler a playhouse. We had been living in a condo where the mere idea of finding a place to put a playhouse was somewhat ridiculous.

But, on the day we moved into our new house, family friends brought over a children’s camping set – a tent, sleeping bag and camp chair, for my son. We immediately set it up on the patio, the intended spot for the playhouse and there it remained. All thoughts of a playhouse eventually faded from my mind as my son tumbled in an out of the tent, zipping himself and a variety of toys, stuffed animals, friends, cars and plastic food in and playing for what seems like hours.

Playmates have playhouses at their homes, but no one else has a tent sent up on their back patio! We’re cool!

Now almost 3 years later, the tent is somewhat the worse for wear and I’m hunting for a new one. Since we live in a warm climate, the tent stays up all year, somewhat protected from the elements by an overhang, but still…outdoors. So, I wanted something sturdy – no “play tents” made of fabric; no flimsy poly material meant for the occasional backyard camping experience. I wanted the real thing.

So, I went for a model from a well known camping products manufacturer, Coleman. I can’t wait to get my Coleman Kids Tent! We’ll be the hit of the neighborhood once again!