Kids are awesome for a whole bunch of reasons, but one of my favorites is that they help bring out the kid in parents. I was watching a video of a father in Dallas, Texas who strung three laundry baskets together and turned them into a multiple passenger snow sled. I'm thinking that came about because it doesn't snow often in Dallas and that father used his imagination and what he had on hand at home to take advantage of a very rare situation and a wonderful opportunity to play with his kids. I smiled as I watched the video because I just love how as parents we are inspired by our kids to turn everyday household items into toys for our kids and how much fun are kids end up having with them.
Readmore ¿Qué más?: 5 Ways to use old toys to decorate your home (CRAFTS)
Have fun watching this video of a father using laundry baskets to play with his kids in the snow and then check out the slideshow I put together of ten household items your kids will love to play with for some inspiration.
*Image via Corbis Images*
Broom
Children instinctually know that brooms are not just for sweeping. They are great for flying. They also work as horses or can be used to play limbo.
Sheets
Sheets are great for indoor picnics, to transform anyone into a ghost, or to make a tent.
Pillows
Pillows! Is there anything more giggle-inducing than a good old fashioned pillow fight?
Pillows and sheets
Yes, I'm counting pillows plus sheets as a whole other item because if you add pillows and sheets together, you get a fort!!!
Laundry
Laundry may not be all that fun for you, but kids can do all sorts of things with it. They love sorting it, they love tossing it around, they love laying in it when it is freshly folded.
Paper towels
This is such a great way to trick your kids into doing housework. If you have hardwood or laminate floors, have them skate around on all fours while you spray non-toxic cleaner ahead of them.
Cardboard boxes
I don't know why we even bother buying young kids toys, we should just give them the boxes the toys come in because they adore playing with boxes. I'm talking hours of fun.
Towels
You can use a large towel to play tug of war. Go easy on your kid though, remember you are significantly larger and let them win a few.
Towels...again
I'm not counting towels again, but I just had to give you another example of how they can be used for play. Super hero capes are always a huge hit. You can make these capes out of dish towels too so the smaller kids don't trip.
Pots and pan
Ahhh, pots and pans are musical instruments in the hands of children. Yeah, it's loud, but so worth the fun factor.
Recycling
Kids love to stack and build. Let them have some fun with the recycling. It totally fits into the whole recycle, reuse and reduce frame of mind.
