Build, Hide & Imagine
2-4 Years, 4-6 Years, 1-2 Years
A wonderfully open-ended activity using a simple piece of fabric that can become almost anything. Children can transform it into a den, tent, play base, picnic space or backdrop, encouraging imagination and independent play.
Learn what you need to do for this activity
Learn what is needed in order to do this activity
Learn how you can adapt this activity and reuse
Learn the Benefits of this activity
What do you do:
Give your child the fabric and explore what it could become.
Spread it on the floor to create a play base or picnic space.
Drape it safely over chairs or furniture to create a simple den or tent.
Add cushions, books, toys or loose parts.
Follow your child’s ideas rather than deciding what the space should be.
What's Needed:
Large lightweight fabric or play sheet
Chairs, cushions or safe furniture for building
Optional pegs or clips
Optional blankets and cushions
Favourite toys, books or loose parts
How to Adapt
For younger children: Lay the fabric on the floor as a simple sensory or play base and add a few familiar toys.
For older children: Encourage them to design and build their own den, tent, shop, house or imaginative world.
Extend the play: Add torches, cushions, books or natural loose parts and let the space evolve with their play.
Benefits of the Activity
Imaginative play – encourages children to create their own ideas and stories.
Creativity – shows that one simple resource can have many possibilities.
Problem-solving – encourages children to work out how to build and adapt their space.
Gross motor skills – supports lifting, carrying, stretching and arranging.
