Just build a blanket fort with your kids!

It starts as a question:
“Dad, can we build a fort?”

You glance at the clock. It’s late. You’re tired. There’s laundry. Dishes. That email you still haven’t answered.

Say yes anyway.

Because you’re not just stacking couch cushions.
You’re building trust. You’re saying “you matter.” You’re showing that play isn’t beneath you. It’s the bridge.

You won’t always be invited in.
One day, their fort will be their room. Then their car. Then a life of their own.
And if you always said “not now,” that door may stay closed.

Fun Stuff to Try

It doesn’t have to be elaborate.
A blanket and a flashlight will do.
They’ll forget the blueprint. But they’ll remember you showed up. Crawled in. Acted scared of a sock monster.

And for 80by18? This is the stuff.
Because it’s not about forts. It’s about presence disguised as play.

So build it.
Even when you’re tired.
Especially when you’re tired.

Because childhood is short.
And forts don’t build themselves.