Day 25: Build a Stick Tower

Welcome to Day 25 of 31 Days of Backyard Nature Fun, a month-long series offering simple ways to get outside exploring the natural world. To see activities from earlier this month, head here.

Last week I mentioned that, second only to rocks, sticks are the favorite item from nature that The Explorers gather on our neighborhood walks. (Tell me I’m not alone here.)

Needless to say, we’ve learned lots of ways to put them to use. This month, I’ve shared several of these ideas – like making nature wands and wind streamers, and finding north with a stick (with help from Lindsey of outsidemom.com).

Today, we offer another option, one with no additional materials required (except a healthy dose of imagination).

Day 25: Build a stick tower.
You’ll need a few sticks for this one. We usually have more than enough on hand in our backyard, but if we don’t, we head out on a walk around the neighborhood to find some.

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to get building. We started our stick tower by making a square for the base. Then The Big Explorer began piling on more sticks in a rather Jenga-like pattern (two sticks in one direction placed on two sticks in the opposite direction). We wanted to see how high we could build the stick tower before it fell.

But it doesn’t really matter how high your stick tower gets, or whether it even takes any distinct shape at all. All that matters is that you have fun with it! Imagine what your stick tower might be used for and who (or what) might live there.

If you need a few more ideas for what to do with your spare sticks, don’t miss 10 ways to play with sticks.

Just joining us? Catch up on what we’re up to at 31 Days of Backyard Nature Fun.