Building a fort is an incredibly fun way for kids to spark their imagination, creating a special space where stories, adventures, and creativity can take off. But the benefits go well beyond pretend play, which is highly valuable in and of itself... As children plan and construct their fort, they practice problem-solving skills, experiment with how different materials work, and learn firsthand about balance, weight, and the natural world around them. When things don’t work out, they get to expand their frustration tolerance. The building process also engages both large and small muscles, supporting physical development while keeping kids actively involved.

Fort building also offers valuable social and emotional benefits. When children build alongside a parent, sibling, or friend, they learn how to cooperate, communicate ideas, and practice patience as they work toward a shared goal. Taking turns, adjusting plans, and helping one another builds teamwork skills and confidence making fort building a simple activity with lasting developmental rewards.

Having fun with this activity? Try these ideas:

Build a mini fort for a mouse, fairy, or other tiny creature.
Bring out costumes, play food, or other props to aid imaginative play.
Research a variety of shelters and pick one to recreate.

We’d love to see what you’re up to this Spring Break. Tag us @mountain_sprouts or #MSCCSpringBreakChallenge to share photos with us on social media.

Build a Fort