Mini Teepees/Mini Forts

Building structures out of sticks is perhaps one of my most exciting childhood memories. I remember we would vacation near a forest and my mom would take us out to the woods to build teepees. She would bring twine and a sheet and the magic would begin!

This is a similar activity you can do on a much smaller scale in your backyard. I am not sure if it is politically correct to use the word "teepee."  You could call them mini-forts instead. I did do a google search about using the word "teepee," but nothing in particular about the name being disparaging. If anyone can think of a better name that is respectful to Native Americans, please tell me. .. I think the kind of play that could accompany it could be disparaging if kids are taught to "run around the teepee as an Indian" and patting their mouth while yelling "whoo whoo!" I think if we discuss this with kids that they are what we, as humans, used as our homes before we had houses and that Native Americans used these in the Great Plains, it is fair to call it a "teepee."

Begin with bundling  sticks (cut 10-12 inches long) and tie together with a string.

Stand up the sticks and spread apart. This is best to do
on the grass, mulch, or soil.

Wrap a piece of fabric and secure with a string. Enjoy some
creative play, maybe make a village?