Build a Den From Fallen Branches
Lean fallen branches against a low tree fork and you have a shelter big enough to sit in. Your child works out that a wall only stands when every stick leans the same way.
What you need
- Fallen branches
- A low tree fork or a big log
- Leaves, moss or spruce twigs — only what has already fallen
How to play
- Find a low fork in a tree or a fallen log to serve as the roof beam.
- Collect fallen branches, longest ones first, and pile them next to the spot.
- Lean the long branches against the beam from both sides, leaving a gap to crawl through.
- Fill the walls with shorter branches and cover them with dry leaves or spruce twigs.
- Crawl inside together and look for the places where light shines through, then patch them.
- Leave the den standing for the next visitors, or take it apart and stack the branches.
