Children absolutely adore building forts out of blankets and pillows! And let’s be honest — adults also enjoy lying inside their kids’ “secret hideout” from time to time.
Remember how cozy it felt to create your very own fortress of pillows and blankets? Inside, it was a private world, just yours. You’d bring in your favorite toys, decorate the space, and suddenly everything felt different.
You could watch TV from inside your fort with your parents, or completely shut yourself off from the outside world.
How to Build a Blanket Fort at Home
Almost anything can work when building a fort. Back in the day, kids often used a folding cot to create two “walls,” while the third wall was a piece of furniture or just the room’s wall. It was as if the cot was made for fort-building.
You can also build a fort between two armchairs or attach a “roof” to other furniture. Traditional building materials are, of course, blankets and pillows. After that, it’s all about imagination.
Another option is to stretch ropes between pieces of furniture and use them as a frame. Just make sure the furniture can handle the weight of the blankets.
To prevent the roof from sagging, secure the blankets with clothespins or tuck them into the couch cushions. For a small tent-like fort, large sofa pillows can serve as walls.
Don’t forget the floor! One blanket isn’t enough for comfort, so layer several or use a spare mattress. Yoga mats or camping mats also work well. Add a blanket on top to make it soft and cozy.
Decorate your fort however you like. String lights, fairy lights, or any kind of decor will make it magical. And of course, the more pillows and stuffed animals inside, the cozier it will feel.
Inside, the fort can be anything your child imagines: a spaceship, a magical castle, or a hidden cave. It’s a chance to bring your child’s fantasies — and even your own — to life!
Who says forts are just for kids? Build one together and spend an evening with games, cartoons, and stories.
What to Do in a Fort With Kids
Anything you want! Your private little space can be used for:
- Playing board games
- Playing on a tablet
- Reading or inventing fairy tales and spooky stories
- Watching cartoons and movies
- Simply talking
- Doing arts and crafts
- Playing with toys
- Putting on plays or puppet shows
- and more
A fort is a safe, closed-off space away from daily routines and distractions. It has a special atmosphere where kids (and parents) can create entire new worlds.
Why Blanket Forts Are Good for Kids
A fort isn’t just about fun — it’s also a place where a child can feel safe and in control of their own little world.
This is especially important if a child shares a room with siblings or if your family spends most of the time together. Even at a young age, kids need a personal space that reflects their interests.
Forts also help children develop imagination. A simple structure made of blankets and pillows can become anything — a fairytale kingdom, a hidden cave full of secrets, or an exciting adventure setting.
