Build a Fort

build a fort

Time Frame: 1 hour + Free Play 

Activity: W.O.N.D.E.R

Area of Learning;: Physical 

Photo by Luxor Linens

“ Ready to hide out in a fort? Get creative and build an impenetrable structure with all of the blankets, pillows and sheets you can get your hands on!”

Engage your child in play and building by making a fort inside your home. Help them be creative in moving, shifting, and covering furniture to create a structure fit for a hide out. Let their imagination bring their structure to life!

Process

1. Gather large flat sheets, blankets and large pillows.

2. Use a couch, chairs, or even a large table as your base. 

3. Hang the sheets over the areas to create a hideout. 

4. If you would like, you can use two 3M hooks on opposite walls, tie a rope between the two hooks,  and then hang a large sheet over the rope. Stretch the sheets to fit/fall over opposite couches or chairs, or panels. 

5. Add pillows, hanging lights, small stools, or chair cushions to create your own themed “tent” or fort.

6. Have fun! Use as a reading nook or as part of imaginary play. 

Materials

• Flat bedsheets

• Clothespins or Clips, rope, 3M hooks (if possible)

• Structures for base (chairs, couches, tall sturdy cushions, easel, etc.. 

• Decorative items (lights, pillows, stools, books, etc...

  Good imagination!

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Child role

• Help decide on how you will use your fort. Campsite? Classroom? Secret cave? PIrate ship? Store?

• Help gather materials to build fort 

• Decorate your area

Parent role

• Gather bedsheets, pillows, and extra blankets that can transform a space into a fort

• Allow your child to decide which material to use to build their fort

• Let them lead you in assembling their fort.

• Indulge in their imaginative play and delve into the character they would like you to portray.