Playroom Chronicles Podcast

Charlene DeLoach
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PARENTING

Where parents come to rethink play, and rediscover toy joy by learning to Think Outside The Toy Box® and Play Like It's 1979™.

  1. Spooktacular Play: Tricks, Treats & Toys for Halloween

    10/03/2025

    Spooktacular Play: Tricks, Treats & Toys for Halloween

    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 Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    12 min
  2. Holiday Toy Gift Guide Overwhelm? This Was My Answer.

    09/19/2025

    Holiday Toy Gift Guide Overwhelm? This Was My Answer.

    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 helpThe holidays often bring clutter—not connectionHoliPlay was designed to calm the chaos, not add to itYou can shop smarter and still keep the holiday magicLess overwhelm = more meaningful playThe summit is your go-to tool for intentional giftingCreated by a toy expert who’s also a real parentWatch from anywhere, whenever you need itResources 🌐 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 Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    8 min
  3. 6 Toys That Boost Learning Without Feeling Like School

    09/05/2025

    6 Toys That Boost Learning Without Feeling Like School

    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 Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    15 min
  4. The Surprising Place I Always Find Amazing Toys

    08/22/2025

    The Surprising Place I Always Find Amazing Toys

    Forget overpriced plastic junk and clutter-causing impulse buys. In this episode, I’m revealing one of my favorite secret sources for high-quality, imagination-boosting toys: estate sales. I’ll walk you through why these hidden-in-plain-sight sales are a goldmine for classic toys that actually last, what to look for (and what to avoid), and exactly how to find estate sales near you. Plus, I’ll share how they totally outshine garage and yard sales when it comes to toy treasure hunting. Perfect for parents who love a good deal and want playthings with real value, this episode will change how you think about secondhand shopping—and might just become your new Saturday morning ritual. What You’ll Discover: The difference between estate sales, garage sales, and yard salesWhy older toys are often better toysWhat I skip and what I grab (with stories!)Tools and tips to estate sale like a proA simple weekend challenge to kickstart your huntReady to score toys that last and play that matters? Let’s go treasure hunting. Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    11 min
  5. Screen-Time Zombies to School-Ready Stars

    08/08/2025

    Screen-Time Zombies to School-Ready Stars

    Forget the worksheets and screen time battles! In this episode, I reveal 5 popular toys that secretly build the exact skills your child's teacher will thank you for come September. From fine motor development to critical thinking, these screen-free superstars make back-to-school prep feel like pure fun. I'll show you how Zip String teaches physics, why Marshmallow Madness builds math skills, and how to turn Hungry Hungry Hippos into active learning. Perfect for parents feeling that August panic about getting kids school-ready, this episode proves the best learning doesn't need a power cord. Plus, I'm challenging you to try screen-free play periods that could transform your family's routine. What You'll Discover: 5 specific toys that build real classroom skills through playHow to sneak math and science into fun activitiesWhy these toys work better than educational apps for school prepSimple ways to start a screen-free play challenge this monthAdvanced variations to grow with your child's abilitiesReady to turn toy time into school prep time? Your kids won't even know they're learning! Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    11 min
  6. How to Turn Summer Toys Into Fall Favorites

    07/25/2025

    How to Turn Summer Toys Into Fall Favorites

    Wondering what to do with summer toys after summer ends? Don't pack away those summer toys just yet! In this episode, I reveal how to transform your pool noodles, beach balls, water tables, and kiddie pools into engaging fall activities that keep kids entertained while sneaking in valuable learning. Discover my six favorite summer-to-fall toy transformations that will save you money, reduce screen time, and teach your children to think creatively about play. From turning pool noodles into marble roller coasters to transforming water blasters into autumn art tools, these simple transitions extend your toy investment while providing hours of educational fun. Perfect for parents looking to maximize their summer toy purchases and keep kids engaged during the transition to cooler weather. Plus, I share bonus winter adaptations for year-round play value! What You'll Learn: How to turn pool noodles into engineering experimentsCreative ways to repurpose water toys for fall sensory playScreen-free activities that secretly teach math and scienceMoney-saving strategies for extending toy lifeSimple transitions that spark creativity in childrenReady to see your summer gear in a whole new light? Tune in and discover how every "seasonal" toy can become a year-round learning opportunity. Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    11 min
  7. No Toys? No Problem. Simple Ways to Spark Creative Play Anywhere

    07/11/2025

    No Toys? No Problem. Simple Ways to Spark Creative Play Anywhere

    Think your kids need toys to play? Think again. In this episode of The Playroom Chronicles, I share a refreshing reminder from my own childhood—when a stick, a hoop, and a cup were all it took to spark hours of joy. Discover why modern kids struggle to play despite overflowing toy bins, and learn practical, mess-free ways to engage your child with everyday items you already have at home. Whether you're stuck in a waiting room, traveling without toys, or just craving more creative, clutter-free play—this episode is packed with simple swaps and playful parenting wisdom that actually works. Perfect for busy parents who want less stress, fewer toys, and more real play. Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    12 min
  8. The Only 10 Toys Your Child Will Ever Need (Part 2)

    06/27/2025

    The Only 10 Toys Your Child Will Ever Need (Part 2)

    Discover the final 5 toys that grow with your child from ages 2-12 in this must-listen episode for parents seeking smart toy investments. Toy expert and mom Charlene reveals surprising ways to use puzzles, puppets, board games, magnet tiles, and building blocks across every developmental stage. Learn why these classic toys deserve prime playroom real estate and how they transform from baby entertainment to teen learning tools. Plus, get creative play hacks that'll make you see these everyday toys in a whole new light. Download the free PDF guide at toybox.playroomchronicles.com/top10. Are you tired of buying toys your kids outgrow in months? In this game-changing episode, discover 5 versatile toys that grow with kids from toddlerhood through the teenage years, delivering incredible play value for over a decade. Toy expert and parent consultant Charlene shares the final installment of her revolutionary "Toy Capsule" series, revealing why puzzles, puppets, board games, magnet tiles, and building blocks deserve a permanent spot in every playroom. What You'll Learn: How to transform simple puzzles into treasure hunts, math games, and art projectsWhy puppets are secret weapons for emotional intelligence and tough conversationsBoard game hacks that build focus and executive functioning skillsUnexpected ways teens use "baby" toys like magnet tiles for school projectsBuilding block activities that teach entrepreneurship and storytellingPerfect for Parents Who Want: Toys with lasting value and versatilityScreen-free play options for multiple agesEducational toys that don't feel like learningPractical tips for maximizing toy investmentsIdeas for independent play activitiesThis episode includes real-life examples from Charlene's home, creative play variations for each age group, and insider tips from her toy industry expertise. Whether you're decluttering your playroom or shopping for toys that'll last, this episode will transform how you think about children's play. Episode Highlights: The puppet technique that helps kids open up about school problemsWhy Charlene's teenager uses magnet tiles for chemistry homeworkHow 20 building blocks became a complete marketing campaignBoard game modifications that turn kids into critical thinkersThe puzzle hack that teaches coding concepts without screensDownload your free Toy Capsule PDF guide featuring all 10 essential toys and age-specific play ideas at playroomchronicles.com/top10. Connect with Charlene on Instagram and Facebook @playroomchronicles for daily play inspiration and behind-the-scenes toy tips. Keywords: toys that grow with kids, versatile toys, educational toys, screen-free play, toy rotation, playroom organization, developmental toys, STEM toys, creative play ideas, independent play, toy capsule, minimalist toys, long-lasting toys, play-based learning Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com

    19 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Where parents come to rethink play, and rediscover toy joy by learning to Think Outside The Toy Box® and Play Like It's 1979™.

Information

  • Creator
    Charlene DeLoach
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Playroom Chronicles Podcast
  • Show Website
    Playroom Chronicles Podcast