One of my favourite things as a child was to make a cubby house out of blankets and sheets and what ever structures I could use – chairs, tables, boxes, cupboards, bunk beds, etc.

When I found out I was pregnant I was so excited that I would have the opportunity to be a big kid again! I have so many things I look forward to doing with my child, and cubby houses is just one of them. Remember parenting should be fun and something you enjoy. Some days are harder than others and as they get older we will face new challenges but stay calm and remember you’re the adult and in charge. Enjoy sharing memories with your children.

Go on, be a hands-on parent, it’s your second chance to be a kid again!

A cubby house can be as simple or as complex as you want to make it. The age of your child will determine how involved they a can be in constructing it. For older children this is a great activity to get their imaginations working. Sometimes in this day and age we forget about their little imaginations with all the technology and toys that do some much for us. Let your child’s imagination go crazy and enjoy the adventures you will share together in the cubby house.

I have set up a little cubby house/relaxing area, in my baby’s room where we can lay and hang out. Our cubby house is constructed underneath a corner desk in her room. The top part of the cupboard is a desk with shelves where I use that part of the cupboard for storing books. Underneath where your legs would go if you use it as a desk, is where I have constructed the cubby house.

I’ve included a few Winnie the Pooh character soft toys to dangle down from the roof, a monkey toy that makes sounds when you tug on the plastic bit attached to the base of it, stickers on the walls for tummy time enjoyment, and there are two panels where I’ve painted them with chalkboard paint. I’ve filled the floor with pillows and a blanket! It’s a bit squished but cosy for now while she is small. As she gets bigger I will change it up so she can hang out there on her own and play with her toys.

Unfortunately this will eventually be too small for her, but that just gives me a good excuse to construct another one with her. By then she will be big enough to help me create something even more awesome and fun!

By Clare at Relaxed Parenting Blog