How to build a children’s den at home

Building a children’s den at home is the dream of almost every little one, and perhaps of many adults too. In the past, we built our own little hideaways from furniture and a pile of blankets, and they worked perfectly whether it was raining or sunny outside. After all, who wouldn’t love that? Today’s children are exactly the same. A den makes a lovely decoration for a girl’s bedroom, but don’t be afraid to create one in a boy’s room too. For the garden, you can buy them a plastic playhouse, or if you are handy, you can even build one from wood. But why is it so important for children to have their own hideaway?  

Why do children build dens?

As we have already mentioned, a child’s world is full of imagination, so it is no surprise that children discover they can turn mattresses into a brilliant hideaway. And not only at home: they often build a den in the garden too, for example up in the trees, although with your help. Such hideaways also serve as a place to create their own stories, which stay hidden from everyone else.

Another reason why children build dens may be that they sense some unhappiness in the family. They feel the need to hide from the world around them. Constant arguments or reproaches between parents are the worst thing children can witness. A hideaway then also becomes a place where your child is their own master and can do whatever they like.

Do you enjoy camping? Building their own shelter can be one of the steps that eventually awakens a passion for camping in children. Children often want to sleep overnight in their dens, and from there it is only a small step to spending time in the great outdoors.

Imperfection welcome

Be careful if you decide to help your children. It is often enough simply to show them what they can use to build their den. Children will very soon work out for themselves where, what and how to use things. So definitely don’t take over. Your children can manage a great deal on their own. Your help should be fairly minor.

A corner for children

If you have the space, create a children’s corner in your home. Children love hiding in all sorts of places, so a den or playhouse will make them very happy. They can disappear for a while into a world of imagination, their own dreams, wishes and thoughts, without being disturbed by anyone. It is there that they can rest, simply lounge around, listen to children’s songs, read, look through a picture book or draw. If this idea appeals to you, there are plenty of options. It all depends on your skills and budget. Today you can make a children’s den from a blanket or by arranging furniture. Don’t be afraid to use the space under the stairs, or to adapt a room with a high ceiling, to create a safe place where children can play.

A cosy rug

A rug can also be a decorative feature of a children’s den, as rugs are practical. Caring for rugs is not difficult either, so don’t hesitate to go for one. Young children spend a huge amount of time playing on the floor, and a rug provides a soft surface. Don’t be afraid to choose one that sparks their imagination, for example with animals or geometric shapes.

Sew a tent

Handy people can turn their hand to anything, including a sewing machine or a needle and thread. If you are not afraid of handicrafts, try sewing a tent from cotton canvas. Believe us, the result will be sturdy and very pretty. You can also add little windows to the sides. Don’t be afraid to decorate it, for example with tassels, small lanterns or other decorations.   

A children’s den made of books

Large books or books with all kinds of illustrations can create a place your child will keep coming back to. Even an adult would want a den like this. If you have a large bookcase, you can create a hideaway with the help of pegs and cleverly arranged books and blankets.

Cleaning up in the starring role

Be prepared for tidying up after the den. Whether it stands outside or indoors, you won’t avoid cleaning up, because there will be mess everywhere. From the very start, teach your children that whatever they build, they must also tidy away and put everything back as it was.

Encouraging children to build their own shelters and hideaways is definitely worth it. Even though at first glance it may seem they are only making a mess, that is not the case. They are creating their own world and their own fun, while developing many skills that are important in everyday life too. Keep an open mind, and everything is sure to work out.