By Abigail Abesamis

There’s something magical about the way that ordinary pillows and blankets can be transformed into a playhouse for children, and for those young at heart. Growing up, my sisters and I would hang blankets around the bottom bunk of their bunk bed and create our own fort. We would watch movies, eat snacks, and talk. These are activities we would have done anyway, but something about making the space into a fort made it that much more exciting.

Though no two forts are the same, here are a few helpful tips on constructing a fort for you and your little ones:

Find (or clear out) a space large enough for the fort. This can be done in their bedroom, the living room, or pretty much anywhere.

If the space is not carpeted, or the carpeting is not particularly comfortable to sit on, bring pillows! All sizes, colors, and shapes are welcome.

Find tall objects to help create the skeleton of your fort. Borrow a desk chair, chairs from the dining room, any tall sturdy objects will do.

Find a sheet or blanket large enough to cover the entire fort. Take special care in pulling the sheet over the top of your fort and watch for any falling, unstable pieces.

Your fort might need some internal lighting. Find some flashlights or small lanterns to help light the area. Or, to make the space look even more magical, string some fairy lights around the fort.

Snacks are a must. Small finger foods that won’t cause a lot of mess are ideal. Try baby carrots, small slices of fruit, or cookies.

Decide on what kind of activities you want to do inside the fort. Read a book together, play a board game together, or start a new arts and crafts project. The possibilities are endless.

Photo: willholmes via Flickr cc
Published: January 14, 2014