Another raindrop, another indoor afternoon. After an unseasonably cool spring, with yo-yo temperatures making us moms scurry back and forth between unearthing flip-flops and keeping heavy jackets within easy reach, I question what’s on tap for summer. If the forecasters are to be believed, we’ll be continuing this crazy dance that hovers between hot and humid and wet and wild. And that may mean the kids spending a lot more time indoors than we might like. Before you lose your cool before it actually gets hot, consider stocking up on some fun, relatively inexpensive items to keep kids entertained (and moms, sane). One new item that caught our eye this season is Calafant. Remember how much you loved to play with the box that your favorite toy came in? The Haywire Group builds upon this concept (literally) with cardboard kits that kids can assemble and decorate to create a variety of themed houses and structures, from a pony farm to a king’s castle. All pieces are pre-cut, pre-punched and interlocking, so they can be put together without using scissors or glue. They range from medium-sized kits that feature line art for kids to color using the included markers, to larger-sized projects that allow for more open-ended creative renderings (think a palace without brick detailing) and no markers. We love that kids can work on these kits together or alone, and that they are a refreshing, no-tech alternative to playtime. So, if you’re anticipating little house guests this summer or simply want to stock up on supplies for creative play, Calafant assures a great time, no matter the weather.
In a Nutshell: Great indoor play idea that lets creative juices flow and also amuses the amateur builder. Calafant kits range from $15.99-$19.99 and are designed for ages 4 and up.
