Choosing the Best Kids’ Teepee and Tent (+20 Inspirations)

As you probably know, teepees are extremely popular among children. Whether it be to play inside or outside, they are terrific in so many ways. A teepee not only provides your kids with a cozy place to play and hide, but you can also join them and read a story. This will be their preferred spot when they have friends over for playtime!

Most people tend to place teepees inside the house, either in the children’s bedroom or the playroom. However, depending on the material they are made of, they can also be used outdoors. In fact, when you think of creating a memorable summer night for your kids, why not take their teepee outside and read them a story while watching the stars in the sky?

From classic kids’ teepees to girls’ teepee tents adorned with ribbons and laces, the choices are limitless. As parents, we all want the best teepee for kids that matches our child’s personality and our home decor. With so many options, picking the best kids’ teepee can feel like navigating a maze. But don’t worry. That is why I created this guide.

This guide will cover the following:

• What Is a Kid’s Teepee Tent?
• Teepee vs. Tent
• Best Kid’s Teepees and Tents
• Their Role in Kids’ Development
• Are They Safe
• Different Types
• Different Styles
• Factors to Consider
• Conclusion

Seeking for the ideal teepee or tent? Check out our guide to the best teepees and tents. From baby to toddler, every little girl or boy will love these teepee tents.

What Is a Kid’s Teepee Tent?

Even though teepees are incredibly popular, they are often confused with other play structures. Let’s clarify a few things.

1. Teepee Tent: Referred to as tee pee, tipee, tp, tepee tent, wigwam, tipi tent, or tent… teepees are the same for the most part. One of the significant differences lies in its shape, though.
2. Playhouse: Most parents tend to confuse teepees with a playhouse. A kids’ playhouse is substantially different. They can be used indoors or outdoors and tend to be very big. They are usually made of plastic and last for a very long time.
3. Home bed: Another common misconception is regarding beds. A teepee doesn’t replace a bed in any way. It can be used for sleeping if you want to provide your children with a different type of sleeping environment. Still, it can be used for other purposes as well.

So, What’s The Difference Between a Teepee vs Tent?

Both teepees and tents serve a similar purpose in providing a fun, imaginative space for children to play. However, there are some differences in their design, origin, and functionality.

• Teepees: A teepee, also known as a tipi, traditionally has a conical shape, similar to a pyramid, with a small opening at the top for ventilation. It usually has one entrance and tends to be taller and more slender than a tent. The design of the teepee is inspired by the dwellings of the indigenous peoples of the Plains in North America. Due to their height and structure, teepees tend to be more suited to vertical play, such as standing or dancing.
• Tents: Tents, specifically play tents for children, can come in various shapes and designs. They often have more than one entrance or exit and might include windows. The tent concept is more universal and has been used worldwide for temporary shelter or outdoor activities. Tents are usually wider and provide more horizontal space, ideal for sitting, lying, or crawling.

Whether you choose a teepee or tent for your child will largely depend on the type of play your child enjoys and the available space in the room.

The Best Kid’s Teepees You Could Buy

More Kid’s Teepee Tents Inspirations

The Role of Teepee Tents in Kids’ Development

I WAS INTRIGUED when I first stumbled upon play tents for kids on Pinterest. Sure, these tents and teepees looked cute in the picture. But would they end up folded under the bed after months, or would my children really play with them?

Child development experts suggest that imaginative play is fundamental to a child’s cognitive growth. With their own teepee, children have the chance to create various scenarios. My children have transformed their spaces into everything from castles to space stations.

Also, creating an environment where children feel safe and secure is crucial for their psychological development. A teepee tent can serve as a dedicated space for your child, giving them a sense of ownership.

In my kids’ tents, we’ve hosted pretend school sessions, story times, and more, turning each play session into a rich learning experience.

Teepees and tents for kids aren’t just decor pieces. They are powerful tools that stimulate creativity, foster independence, and promote learning through play.

The joy of parenting comes from watching our kids grow and learn. They may seem simple, but I like to think that these play structures are gateways to a world of imagination and learning.

Are Teepees Safe for Toddlers and Babies

Teepees are generally safe for toddlers, but as with any children’s toy or equipment, some precautions should be taken to ensure safety.

1. Structure and Stability: The teepee should be well-built and stable so it doesn’t tip over easily. Children can be unruly, and a sturdy teepee will withstand their energetic play.
2. Non-Toxic Materials: Ensure that the materials used in the teepee are safe and non-toxic. This includes both the fabric and any paints or finishes. The teepee should ideally be certified to meet child safety standards.
3. Adequate Ventilation: The teepee should have proper ventilation, such as a flap door or mesh windows, to ensure air circulation.
4. No Small Parts or Loose Strings: Check for small parts that can be a choking hazard or loose strings that can cause entanglement.
5. Supervision: While a teepee can offer a fun, private space for toddlers, it’s important to supervise their play, especially with younger toddlers.

Finally, while teepees are designed to be safe for play, they’re not meant for sleeping or to be used as an unsupervised space. Regularly inspect the teepee for wear and tear, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use.

The Different Types of Kids Teepees and Tents

I’ve spent many evenings scrolling through Pinterest, hunting for decor ideas for my kid’s room. And one thing that catches my attention is the wide variety of kids’ teepees and tents. Each kid’s room theme has its ideal type of tent.

• Classic Teepee: The traditional teepee holds a special charm. It’s simple yet captivating, much like the original Native American structures modeled after. The best part? They’re usually made of natural materials, ensuring a safe and snug play area.
• Pop-Up Play Tents: Pop-up play tents are designed for children that are incredibly easy to set up due to their unique construction. They have a flexible yet sturdy frame, usually made of wire or light metal, designed to “pop” into the shape of a tent when it is removed from their storage bag.
• Castle and Princess Tents: Castle and princess tents are perfect if your little ones enjoy fairy tales. These tents provide a magical setting for kids to enact their favorite stories. Castle and princess tents often have decorative elements reminiscent of a royal dwelling. They may feature turrets, banners, or ornate doors and windows printed on the fabric.
• Theme-Based Tents: Theme-based tents are children’s play tents that follow a specific concept to spark kids’ imagination and encourage role-play. There are many subjects, such as animals, space, jungles, pirates, and superheroes.

What Kind of Teepee Styles Are There?

There are many different teepee styles that you can find. You can choose a more straightforward pattern and decorate it with your child, or select a teepee that suits your needs without changing its features.

The most popular teepee styles are:

• Cowboy/Indian Style Teepee: This tends to be one of the favorite teepee styles for boys. If you like the tribal theme with its bright colors, this is maybe an excellent choice for your boy.
• Park Ranger Style Teepee: Suitable for both girls and boys, a park ranger-style teepee is a great choice for indoor and outdoor use. Besides, it can be fun to stimulate your children’s creativity and sense of responsibility.
• Bohemian Style Teepee: This is the kind of teepee that tends to be preferred by girls. It usually comes in soft and pale tones; it’s also suitable for babies.
• Modern Style Teepee: There’s no shortage of modern teepees. With abundant patterns, the only difficulty you will have is choosing the one you like most!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kids Teepee Tent

Choosing the perfect tent for my kids felt like being lost in a forest of Pinterest pins. But don’t worry, I’ve made it out alive, and so will you. Here’s what I’ve learned about picking the right magical haven for my little ones.

1. Material: Safety first, always. We want our kids to play, learn, and grow without risks. So, check the materials of the teepee or tent. Are they non-toxic? Are they sturdy and durable? Trust me. Kids can get pretty adventurous in there!
2. Size: You want a tent or teepee that fits nicely into your kid’s room but leaves space for them to move around. Always measure the room space before you hit the “complete purchase” button.
3. Portability: Also, think about portability. Would you like to move it around or maybe take it outdoors? If yes, opt for a lightweight and easy-to-assemble option.
4. Design: Finally, design and aesthetics. Let’s admit it, we all want a Pinterest-perfect room. But remember, this is your child’s space. Their tastes matter too.

A Teepee Tent for Every Kid

When you are looking for a play teepee for your kids, you will surely find many different designs.

• Little girl teepee: Some teepee tents are specially designed for girls. These tend to include a lot of pinks and purples and offer plenty of space for their dolls. You can also find teepees with images of characters your daughter may be fond of.
• Boy teepee: Other teepees are designed with boys in mind. These tend to be available with blue tones and often feature a theme such as Indians and cowboys, among many others.
• Gender neutral: There are several gender-neutral teepee tents available on the market. These are perfect to be used in a playroom or a shared room. The absence of “girl” or “boy” features makes catering to any child’s aesthetic preferences easier.
• Baby teepee: One of many parents’ questions about teepee tents is if babies can use them and if it’s safe for them. The answer is yes, in both cases. While there are specific baby teepees that you can buy, consider buying one that will suit a child who is a bit older. The reason is simple: if you buy a baby teepee, it may not fit your toddler in a couple of years because it may not be high enough.

Integrating Teepees and Tents into Your Home Decor

We all want to encourage imaginative play but don’t want our home to look like a toy factory. Well, good news! With a little thought and creativity, you can perfectly integrate a teepee tent into your home decor.

Here’s how I did it.

• Matching with Room Themes: First, consider the theme of your child’s room. For instance, my daughter’s room has a fairy-tale theme, so a princess tent seamlessly fits in. If your kid’s room has a nautical theme, how about a pirate tent? Matching the tent with the room theme enhances the decor and deepens the play experience for your child.
• Blending with the Overall Aesthetics: Think about the overall aesthetic of your home. Yes, the kids’ tent must be fun, but it doesn’t need to clash with your decor. You don’t want to get a brightly colored circus tent that sticks out like a sore thumb in my minimalist living room.
• Making the Tent a Focal Point: Don’t be afraid to make the teepee a focal point. In fact, it can add a whimsical touch to your decor.

What Are The Must-Have Teepees Accessories?

Did you know you can include various accessories in your kid’s teepee? You can even adapt them depending on the game they are playing.

• Camping: One exciting idea is to imagine that you are camping in the forest. You can do it as a family; trust me. Your kids aren’t the only ones who will love the experience! For all-around fun, get the axe, cut some wood together, build a campfire, and roast some marshmallows! It’s sure to be an event to remember.
• Pillows: If you have a baby or a toddler, their teepee can be a welcoming spot for their nap. Add some cushions for comfort, and give the teepee a finishing touch by decorating its top with stars. You can also use the teepee as a cozy little storytelling nook.
• Lightings: String lights are also a fun accessory; your kids will love spending the night on their teepee. This will be the perfect dreamy environment, surrounded by some pillows, a cozy blanket, and beautiful string lights.
• Garland: For the final touch, hang a garland from the top to the wall. There are so many shapes and colors available. Choose the ones your kids like most, and get creative!

Conclusion

One thing is clear. These adorable tents are more than just playthings. They are gateways to imagination, learning, and independence, beautifully wrapped in a decor element that can enhance your home.

Teepees allows our kids to have an exclusive little place to share with you and your friends. With so many different styles, patterns, and accessories, it might be a bit challenging to choose the best teepee for your children. Your best bet? Enlist their help!

Happy decorating!

P.S. Teepee and tent are fun for playtime, but you may have limited space. Therefore you should consider one of those house beds, which is great for playtime, like a teepee, but also can be used as a bed.