Fun Friday: Cardboard Box Fort

Fun Friday activities are quick-and-simple ways to explore nature in your own backyard.

I haven’t seen too much of the explorers this week. They’ve been too busy playing in their cardboard box fort. (Yay – our first fort!)

It all started when our new backyard furniture set arrived earlier this week in an enormous box. It was too irresistible for the kids to ignore. They seemed to know just what to do.

The big explorer asked me to put it smack dab in the center of our lawn. Then the kids gave it a makeover with paint and tape.

After that, they disappeared inside. They took tons of books and cars with them. All I know for sure is that there was much giggling and tussling about.

Every afternoon since, the fort is where they head as soon as the big explorer gets home from school. It has become their little hideout.

I sorta love it.

Take-Home Tips

• Make it “homey.” Making the box/fort fun inside and out was very important to the big explorer (hence the painting). We may be adding windows, pillows and more books in the days ahead.

• Protect against the elements. My main concerns: morning dew and twice-weekly timed sprinklers. I placed a large beach towel under the box so it wouldn’t get too damp and move it off the lawn when the kids are done in the evenings.

More Ideas for Spring Outdoor Fun

• Try one of these 32 ideas for spring backyard nature fun
• Or celebrate National Get Outdoors Day this Saturday with a grander adventure in a new-to-you spot