Author Kate Hofmann
Topic Outdoor Activities
Credit Debbie Palen
Illustrated boy sitting inside a giant bird nest reading a book with birds watching
Photo: Debbie Palen

What would it feel like to sit in a bird’s nest? Find out by building one big enough for you! This outdoor activity uses sticks, leaves, grass, and whatever else you can find to create a cozy nest you can actually climb into.

Materials

  • Sticks and branches (lots of them)
  • Grass clippings or long grass
  • Leaves
  • Pine needles
  • Rocks and logs (for structure)
  • Blankets or towels (optional, for a soft lining)

Everything comes from outside! This is a zero-cost, all-natural building project.

Steps

  1. Pick your spot. Decide if you want a space with a view or a place that’s tucked away.
  2. Build the base. Lay down a thick layer of soft materials: grass clippings, leaves, or pine needles. This is your nest’s cushion.
  3. Build the walls. Arrange sticks and branches around the edges, leaning them against each other to form walls. Pack leaves and grass between the sticks to fill gaps.
  4. Make it cozy. Line the inside with more soft materials. Add blankets or towels if you want extra comfort.
  5. Climb in! Sit in your nest. Read a book, watch the clouds, listen to birds, or just enjoy your own little outdoor hideaway.

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