Children's Bean Pole Tee Pee

My mom loves to garden.  When I was little she would set up places for me to play in the yard while she pulled weeds and tended to her plants.  A blanket would be thrown over the clothes line for a tent, the card table would be brought outside, set beside the garden, covered with blankets and it would become my "house" as I played with my dolls. 

As I got older I explored the trees and bushes surrounding the garden.  As I climbed into low hanging branches or spread my blanket out under low lying limbs I would retreat into my own private world of fantasy.  Reading or just day dreaming I traveled the world and explored unknown horizons.  Life was good.

My children loved to create these outdoor private retreats as well.  Doesn't every child love to pretend?  Whether inside or outdoors pretending/role playing helps children explore the many roles around them, assists in helping them express their feelings, fears and insecurities and encourages them to enter into a world "outside the box".  Developing creativity is a wonderful step to help children succeed in school and in life.

Recently, I ran across this photo from a face book post.  I do not know its original source, but thank the wonderful person that created this space for their children and then shared with the world to see.   I have always wanted to do this!

 Why not plant a children's garden/magical play space for your children? 

This would also be a great way to start out a learning unit on Native Americans! 

Wouldn't that be fun?

What other children's garden ideas do you have? 

Send me a photo of your creative ideas!  I would love to see them!

Inspired from the book:

Miraculous, Magical Moments in Minutes:

Over 500 Quick, Easy Activities for Adults and Children to Share

by Becky Baxa

Available from http://www.Amazon.com

in both Kindle and Paperback versions