roxaboxen

At a girls' night recently- I was expressing my frustration with my kids not wanting to be out in the 90 degree weather and how every activity I try to suggest- it either doesn't work with all ages or someone ends up coming inside screaming...
She teaches 2nd grade too, and mentioned a book that she always reads to her students called, "Roxaboxen". (picture below) I have yet to read it to them, but will be checking the library. It's a story of kids playing with boxes and rocks and using their imagination, etc. It reminded me of the fun that plain old boxes were- so one morning Luke, Lib and I trucked down to Target and asked if they had any extra boxes. They had a million and were more than happy to help us start our adventure. I put all that could fit in my car and we sat in our drive way and I tried to show Luke "how it was done"......

With a toddler- it is still tricky, because the boys are ready for more sophisticated play and she tries to mimic them, but unintentionally ruins it. We got markers out and old drawer knobs and created different stores and shops.

After Libby infiltrated one of Ian's stores, Papa Mrfez acquired a new rule apparently.....

They loved having the cash register outside and money ended up everywhere..... if only it had been real.

Then we cut up cardboard and made tons of different foods and items on them to pretend with. Next week, we'll invite the neighbor kids down-......

I can't say that it completely solved the "outdoor" challenge, but it is one small step in continued training of how to be a kid and have fun- Since when did that have to be taught???

Best part? They always acquire accents when they pretend. Love it.