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. Crayon Activities for Kids That Go Beyond Coloring

    MAR 20

    Crayon Activities for Kids That Go Beyond Coloring

    If your child loves to color, draw, and make things, National Crayon Day on March 31 is an easy way to make the day feel special without adding more to your plate. In this episode, Charlene shares simple, colorful activity ideas and creative product picks that make it easy to turn crayons, markers, and drawing time into a fun invitation to create. Whether your child loves coloring books or needs something a little more unexpected, this episode is full of ideas to help you make the most of a playful, low-pressure day.  What You’ll Learn Why National Crayon Day is such an easy win for parentsHow to make coloring feel fresh for kids who do not love traditional coloring booksReusable coloring ideas that give kids more than one round of playCreative products that work well for drawing, coloring, and hands-on funHow prompts and unusual surfaces can make art time more invitingEpisode Breakdown Why March 31 is a great excuse for a colorful activityGirl Scouts-inspired scented markers and gel pensColor-your-own pajamas from Uncommon GoodsCrayola Light Ups recolorable spring charactersMelissa & Doug portable art easel for on-the-go creativityArt Dice prompts from Two TumbleweedsCreative Crayon’s Workshop tablecloths, runners, and placematsFinal reminder: kids sometimes just need an invitation to createKey Topics Covered National Crayon Day activities, coloring activities for kids, reusable art toys, creative drawing prompts for kids, portable art easel for kids, Crayola creative toys, color-your-own pajamas, scented markers for kids, family art activities, easy kids craft ideas Who This Episode Is For Parents of kids who love to color, draw, and createParents looking for easy holiday or themed activity ideasFamilies who want simple art play ideas without a big setupAdults looking for creative products that can work for family use tooLinks & Resources Mentioned Tonies Crayola Art Adventures Clever SetOOLY X Girl Scouts collectionFairy Tale Pajamas from Uncommon GoodsCrayola Light Ups Recolorable Chick Melissa & Doug Take-Along Double-Sided Tabletop Activity Art EaselArt Dice from Two TumbleweedsCreative Crayon’s Workshop coloring tablecloths, runners, and placematsShop Here: https://www.playroomchronicles.com/creative-coloring-ideas-for-kids-beyond-the-coloring-book/ If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe, follow, and leave a review so more parents can find the show! Thank you!! Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    12 min
  2. Better Easter Egg Fillers Parents Won’t Regret

    MAR 6

    Better Easter Egg Fillers Parents Won’t Regret

    Easter egg hunts are fun until you’re left with candy wrappers, broken trinkets, and a bunch of tiny stuff nobody cares about by lunchtime. In this episode, Charlene shares Easter egg filler ideas that actually fit inside plastic eggs and still feel worth it after the hunt is over. From tiny animal collectibles to magnetic building pieces and Disney surprises, these are toy-based Easter egg fillers that kids can keep playing with long after Easter Sunday. What You’ll Learn Why most Easter egg fillers end up feeling like junkToy ideas that fit inside plastic Easter eggsHow to turn an Easter egg hunt into part of the play experienceWays to stretch the value of collectible toys and mini game piecesEaster egg filler ideas for toddlers, preschoolers, big kids, tweens, and teensEpisode Breakdown Why Charlene wanted better Easter egg fillersTiny toys that fit in mini plastic eggsHow to use Magna-Tiles and Bananagrams in an Easter egg huntCollectibles that keep the fun going after EasterToy ideas for older kids, tweens, and teensDisney-themed Easter egg filler optionsWhy play value matters more than fillerKey Topics Covered Easter egg fillers, toy Easter egg fillers, plastic Easter egg ideas, non-candy Easter egg fillers, Easter basket fillers, mini toys for Easter eggs, Easter egg hunt ideas, collectible toys for kids, Disney Easter egg fillers, sensory Easter egg fillers, Easter toys for toddlers, Easter toys for preschoolers, Easter toys for older kids Who This Episode Is For Parents looking for non-candy Easter egg fillersFamilies trying to avoid random Easter junkParents shopping for Easter basket stuffers with actual replay valueAnyone planning an Easter egg hunt for multiple agesLinks & Resources Mentioned Mini Animal Collectibles Schleich Mini Mates Brand/Manufacturer: Schleich Magnetic Building Toy Micro Mags Spring Garden Travel Set Brand/Manufacturer: Magna-Tiles Word Game Tiles My First Bananagrams/Bananagrams Brand/Manufacturer: Moose Games Collectible Figures Wigglitz Brand/Manufacturer: Wigglitz Sensory Toys for Older Kids Needoh Teenie line Brand/Manufacturer: Schylling Disney Collectibles Disney Doorables in full bloom line Brand/Manufacturer: Just Play Toys Disney Surprise Toy Disney Crystal Surprise Brand/Manufacturer: Cra-Z-Art If this episode gave you a better way to fill Easter eggs this year, be sure to subscribe, follow, and leave a review so more parents can find the show. More from Playroom Chronicles: playroomchroniclespodcast.com playroomchronicles.com PlayroomChronicles.com/Funvault for freebies Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    12 min
  3. What The Toy Trends for 2026 Means for Your Kids Playroom (and Your Wallet)

    FEB 20

    What The Toy Trends for 2026 Means for Your Kids Playroom (and Your Wallet)

    The toy industry just released their biggest toy trends for 2026, and if you’re a parent, you don’t need the industry version. You need the real-life version: what these trends will look like in stores, what they’ll do to your budget, and how to use them in a way that actually works in your house. We're translating the six official 2026 toy trends into parenting language, so you can shop smarter, keep the clutter under control, and get more out of the toys you already have. What You’ll Learn Why adult collectors change the toy aisle (and why July matters more than you think)What “cozy culture” really looks like at home (without a whole big production)How to use creator-driven toys to help your kid think like an inventorA better way to handle blind boxes and collectibles without endless buyingWhy the best “throwback toy” might be youHow to use your child’s fandom as a doorway to longer, deeper playEpisode Breakdown Intro: Toy Fair 2026 and why parents need the “translation”Trend 1: Forever Young (adult toy buying + what it means for holiday shopping)Trend 2: Cozy Culture (hands-on play that helps everyone slow down)Trend 3: Inspiring Inventors (creator culture, STEM toys, and the “creator box” idea)Trend 4: Express Yourself (blind boxes, bag charms, identity, and conversation)Trend 5: Throwback Toys (nostalgia for adults and teens)Trend 6: Fan-Driven Play (fandoms beyond movies and how to use them well)Quick recap + subscribe and resourcesKey Topics Covered Toy trends 2026, Toy Fair New York, toy industry trends, holiday toy shopping tips, adult collectors toys, cozy play activities, board games trend, STEM building toys, creator culture toys, Miss Rachel toys, TikTok YouTube toy trends, blind box collectibles, bag charms, Crybaby collectibles, throwback toys 2000s, Pinterest toy searches, fan-driven play, licensing and fandom toys, NBA toys for kids Who This Episode Is For Parents who feel overwhelmed by what their kids want (especially around the holidays)Families trying to spend smarter in the toy aisleAnyone dealing with tiny collectibles, clutter, and “just one more” purchasesParents who want practical ways to get more play without buying more stuffLinks & Resources Mentioned playroomchroniclespodcast.complayroomchronicles.complayroomchronicles.com/funvaultIf this episode helped you, hit subscribe wherever you listen or watch. Reviews help other families find the show, and it tells the platforms to keep sharing it with parents who need it. Thank you! Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    15 min
  4. When School Vacation Week Feels Long, These Toys Really Help

    FEB 6

    When School Vacation Week Feels Long, These Toys Really Help

    School vacation week can feel endless — especially in the winter. The routine disappears, screens creep in, and kids start feeling restless. In this episode, Charlene shares five thoughtfully chosen toys that don’t just fill time, but actually help kids build confidence, focus, and skills so they return to school feeling refreshed instead of frazzled. What You’ll Learn Why school vacation week can be a powerful reset for kidsHow the right toys support focus, patience, and confidenceWays to reduce screen overload without banning screens completelyHow play can quietly support school-ready skillsWhat makes a toy worth the time and money during long breaksEpisode Breakdown Reframing school vacation week as a reset, not a hurdleFine motor and focus-building creative playLearning strategy and sportsmanship through gamesActive screen time that supports learningBuilding, pretend play, and creativity that lasts all weekKey Topics Covered School vacation week play ideasWinter break toys for kidsScreen-free and active learning toysFine motor skill developmentConfidence-building playWho This Episode Is For Parents navigating long school breaksCaregivers looking for meaningful play ideasEducators supporting social-emotional developmentAnyone wanting less screen stress during vacation weeksLinks & Resources Mentioned (As mentioned verbally in the episode — no additional links provided) Subscribe & Review Love the Playroom Chronicles Podcast? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who’s navigating school vacation week. Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    10 min
  5. Let’s Talk Classroom Valentine Cards With Everyday Toys

    JAN 23

    Let’s Talk Classroom Valentine Cards With Everyday Toys

    Valentine’s Day classroom gifts don’t have to end up broken, forgotten, or stuffed in a junk drawer. If you love pairing toys with classroom Valentines, but hate wasting money on low-quality trinkets? Then this episode is for you. I’m sharing smart, everyday toy ideas that actually hold play value, spark social interaction, and still keep that Valentine’s Day fun alive. 1. What You’ll Learn Why toys have replaced candy as the top classroom Valentine trendHow to choose Valentine’s Day toys that last beyond the holidayEveryday toys that transform easily into Valentine’s Day giftsBudget-friendly ways to buy toys in bulk without sacrificing qualityHow to add play prompts that encourage creativity and social play2. Episode Breakdown / Timestamps 00:00 Everyday Toys to Use for Classroom Valentine Cards 03:08 Mini Furby from Hasbro 04:48 Disney Lorcana Cards from Ravensburger 06:20 Legos from The LEGO Group 07:49 Cookie Slime from Orb Toys 09:34 Suncatchers from Horizon Group 10:17 Unique Ideas for Classroom Valentines 10:42 Mini Brands Books Advent Calendar from Zuru 12:04 Bug Mashup Game from Talking Tables 14:10 Squish-a-longs from Jazwares 15:02 What Do You Meme from Relatable 16:01 Final Thoughts and Resources 16:20 Fun Valentines Classroom Cards With Toys 3. Key Topics Covered Valentine’s Day classroom gifts, non-candy Valentines, toy Valentines, classroom party ideas, everyday toys for kids, bulk toy ideas, play-based gifting, creative Valentine ideas, toy longevity, social play through gifting 4. Who This Episode Is For Parents planning classroom Valentine giftsCaregivers who want non-candy optionsParents tired of cheap toy clutterEducators interested in play-based classroom traditions5. Links + Resources Mentioned https://www.playroomchronicles.com/classroom-valentine-toy-ideas-that-arent-candy-or-trash/https://toybox.playroomchronicles.com/valentine-toy-printables6. Subscribe + Review CTA If this episode helped you rethink classroom Valentine gifts, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. It helps other parents find the show! Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    17 min
  6. When Holiday Toy Shopping Feels Overwhelming: A Playroom Chronicles Update

    10/17/2025

    When Holiday Toy Shopping Feels Overwhelming: A Playroom Chronicles Update

    Episode Description The holiday season is here, and with it comes the pressure to buy all the things. In this short update, Charlene shares why the Playroom Chronicles Podcast is taking a temporary pause—and how that pause is making room for something designed to support parents right when they need it most. If holiday toy shopping feels overwhelming, cluttered, or misaligned with how your kids actually play, this episode explains what’s coming next and how to get support through the holiday season. What You’ll Learn Why new Playroom Chronicles episodes are pausing temporarilyWhat inspired the creation of the Holly Play SummitHow intentional toy shopping can reduce overwhelm and clutterWhat kinds of holiday toy guidance parents can expectWhen new podcast episodes will return Episode Breakdown Why the podcast is pausing during the holiday seasonThe purpose behind the Holly Play SummitTopics parents struggle with most during holiday toy shoppingHow the summit supports thoughtful, play-based gift givingWhat’s next for Playroom Chronicles Key Topics Covered Holiday toy shopping with intentionSimplifying holiday gift givingAvoiding toy clutter and overwhelmChoosing toys kids will play with long-termNavigating blended families and holiday giftingScreen time, connection, and the value of play Who This Episode Is For Parents heading into holiday toy shopping feeling overwhelmedFamilies wanting fewer toys but better playCaregivers looking for intentional, play-based gift ideasParents who value connection over clutter during the holidays Links & Resources Mentioned https://holiplaysummit.com https://playroomchroniclespodcast.com https://playroomchronicles.com Subscribe & Review If this podcast supports your parenting journey, please follow, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps other parents find play-based guidance when they need it most. Instagram: PlayroomChronicles Facebook: PlayroomChronicles Website: PlayroomChronicles.com Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    3 min
  7. 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 Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    12 min
  8. 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 Fun Freebies: PlayroomChronicles.com/FunVault

    8 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
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Playroom Chronicles Podcast
  • Show Website
    Playroom Chronicles Podcast