A House of Ribbons

Got a baby on the move? Why not build him a fun place where he can retreat, relax if he chooses and recharge so you can chase him around the house again? A house of ribbons is a perfect place to do just that and it is super cheap to make. In fact, you might already have these recycled materials in your house. Here is what you need:

A medium to large sturdy box (such as one a computer or printer is packed in)
An assortment of ribbons
Scissors
Nail punch (or something else to puncture holes into the box)

Okay, now you are set. Let's get started!

1. Make sure you remove all items from your box and inspect it for any loose bits such as tape or staples. We don't want any hazards to hurt baby and disrupt his play.

2. Turn the box on its side. using the nail punch, puncture holes at least a hand length apart along the box side facing the top.

3. Select a ribbon and push it through the hole. Use the hole punch to help push it through. Tie a large knot big enough that if the ribbon is yanked from the inside of the box, it won't pull through. Leave at least 4 inches or more between the ribbon and floor. The idea is to create a nice sensory room for your baby to crawl into to explore. We don't want him getting tangled in a web of ribbons. Depending on how large your box is, you'll probably only need about 8-10 hanging ribbons.

4. Suggestion: Make a hole at opposite ends of the box. Take a large ribbon and tie a large knot in the middle. Push an end of the ribbon through each hole. As baby pulls on a end inside of the box he will notice it gets longer (as the other side shortens). What a fun cognitive experience for bub! He wills soon figure out which two tangly ribbons he can move and while the rest are tied snug in place.

5. Now make a fun entry way to the box. You can make a ribbon curtain like ours with a bunch of ribbon cut the same length and taped side by side using packing tape along the edge of the entry way of the box. If you don't have enough ribbon, try fastening on a sheer piece of fabric or multiple sheer or silky scarves for your little one to crawl through.

Your House of Ribbons is now complete! How easy and cheap was that!? If you want, line the bottom with a blanket or but a pillow or some soft toys for bub inside. Change out the treasures for a nice surprise. If possible, use a box that has punch through handles that create a 'window' for your little one which he can open and shut. If not you can easily make your own buy cutting through the box. If you are worried about paper cuts, you can always use masking tape to cover and smooth out the edges.

That's it. Now go have some fun!