Den Building: Why Every Family Should Try It
When was the last time your family built something together? That doesn't include flat pack furniture!
If you have built some flat pack furniture then den building will be a breeze! Terrible instructions and only one way to make it. Den making on the other hand is designed to spark creativity.
The modern day challenge: Too much family time indoors, and too much isolated play. This means finding time for meaningful activities that engage the whole family.
Den making is the perfect solution as it's simple, affordable and a fun way to connect with nature and each other.
Keep reading to discover why den building should be your next family activity.
The Benefits of Den Building
Why Den Building is More Than Just Play
There are physical benefits to den building, from collecting large sticks, walking in the woods to crouching down to get inside. This may not seem a real challenge to many, but as a whole family there may be members that will benefit from this level of exercise.
The mental benefits of den building are very high. I find just being outside in nature a real calming benefit, but add to this the need to be creative and solve problems to build the best den will be a real mental workout.
Family bonding and connection is one of the biggest den building benefits. After a busy week with little time together, some quality time together with no distractions and everyone working together will add so much family time value.
How Den Building Brings Families Together
Building Memories, One Den at a Time
The shared experience of den building strengthens and brings families together. No matter what is going on in your lives or how busy you are, sharing the same goal and time together will create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ever tried getting the teenage nephew to play games with an 8 year old? One wants to sit on their phone, the other play endless games and indoors that relationship doesn't work.
Getting mixed ages together to build a den plays on each of their strengths to work and play together. The creativity of younger children balanced with the knot tying and structural knowledge of older children will be the perfect balance for the ultimate den.
Getting Started with Den Building
Building Your First Den: Tips and Tools
Anyone can build a den from a pure stick teepee, to a simple den with sticks, tarps, ropes etc.
At CAMPKiN & MOO we believe in access for all families to fun adventures. Our den kits have been designed to offer the essentials for den making at affordable prices, we cut all non-essentials and focused on quality materials.
If they're too much still, then a few sticks and a sheet will do!
Finding the perfect spot for den building:
- Find somewhere with enough clear ground for a groundsheet to be placed without having to play on some annoying stick or prickly plants.
- Make sure there are some trees close enough to tie some cord onto to hold your den tarp up.
- If building a stick den, make sure there are enough large sticks close by to use. It should be fun and no need to search for miles to find enough sticks.
- Try to avoid areas near open water - this just allows for more free roaming without added danger.
- If it's raining, pick a spot under a large tree for protection. The same can apply for sunny days.
- Encourage kids to pick the spot. Give them some guidance on what to look for and see if they can find the perfect den building spot.
- Avoid any wildflower areas - try to make as little impact as possible.