It also helps with their problem solving and self regulation skills. For example a child may be playing with their friend and one of them has to decide what they are 'cooking'. This allows them to take turns and allow others to go first. Perhaps if they don't get their choice this time, the next time they play they can choose the recipe. A lesson that will serve them very well in later life. Plus, it being in the garden allows kids the freedom to make a mess and it doesn't matter as much as it does inside the house. How much does a mud kitchen cost?

A mud kitchen is essentially about cooking up grubby fun. Your kids can sauté leaves, oven-bake mud pies and wash up after your garden gnomes have devoured the meal. Dimensions: 43 x 96 x 108; Material: Wood; Age range: Unspecified What to look for when choosing a mud kitchen? We are a family run business. Mud kitchens are handmade in both the Southern Highland & Far South Coast, NSW.If you're buying your first mud kitchen, the TP toys early fun mud kitchen is a good starting point with a low price point. Where to buy a mud kitchen and accessories? Research has proven that playing in the mud can make you happy. LiveScience.com reported on a study by the University of Bristol, which showed that 'exposure to friendly soil bacteria could improve your mood by boosting the immune system just as effectively as antidepressant drugs'. There is also additional evidence that microscopic bacteria in mud can increase serotonin levels in our brains – the chemical that helps us relax. Remember we've got lots more ideas for everyone to enjoy in our family garden ideas feature. Why are mud kitchens beneficial?

This really depends on whether your child likes imaginative play and making a mess! It may be worth investigating how your kids react to this kind of play before making the investment, for example by putting a bowl and utensils in the garden for them initially to see what they do.Look at the overall dimensions of the product and most importantly the surface height. It’s not going to be much fun if your child is eye level with the sink (for example)! My daughter has the Chad Valley one from Argos... it's brilliant, she got it for her birthday in the summer & absolutely loves it” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user TellerTuesday4EVA) You can attach a garden hose to the tap - hours of fun!" (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user DownWhichOfLate) Our verdict Mud kitchens encourage imaginative, creative play using natural materials, where there are no rules on staying clean and tidy. So, they're ideal for both kids and parents. What is a mud kitchen? Big & Heavy 2 Day Delivery (items 30kg and/or over 1.2m in length - will arrive two working days from dispatch)

Water Features Quality mud kitchens will come with a working tap which you can connect to your garden hose. It is also great if it features a separate water dispenser and basin. The use of water in your play sessions is really important, so make sure these parts are substantial. Ideally the tap needs to be made of brass or a similar durable material. Elevates mood: Mud kitchen play increases the levels of serotonin in our brains, helping us to relax and feel soothed and calm, they say. Plus, fresh air and Vitamin D (obtained through being exposed to sunlight) are both great for boosting the spirits. I still recommend that you watch the videos below. They will give you heaps of ideas. Building a mud kitchen as a gift? Messy play is vital, but we don’t often encourage it for fear of the inevitable tidying up. The best mud kitchens provide a great alternative to playing indoors - a safe space for your child to mix potions and throw water about without restriction.Cupboards and Storage So you are buying the kitchen as a fun play experience for your child. Have you considered the practical storage solution this can offer to you and your family as somewhere to keep all their little play bits? All the pots and pans, cups, chalk, watering cans and anything else that may otherwise be strewn around your lawn? Having shelves and/or cupboards in your mud kitchen can keep your garden or play area much tidier than it once was. So this is not just for the kids after all. Having lots of places to put all their bits and pieces right inside their play kitchen also means it is much much easier for them to find everything they need when they are outside playing - win win! Cooking Area The basic areas such as the hob cooking surface are also an important consideration. Generally you will have two rings on your hob as standard with a small surface area to place objects on. However larger products will feature four rings - giving lots more surface area to have lots of different containers on the rings at once. Your child may have siblings or friends over to play with the kitchen so make sure you take the time to give this some thought.