All aboard! With October in full swing, we’re tackling our hibernation to-do list: stockpiling resources, crafting snail sidekicks, and embracing the chaos of a family burrow.
Ask
How do you hibernate?
If you had to hole up for the whole winter, what three things would you want with you? A mountain of blankets? A mountain of crumpets? Your favourite soft toy?
Don’t let reality get in the way of roleplay. Bunk up with a skunk if you fancy it.
Explore
So what if it’s chilly, there’s foraging to be done! Head out there and search for treasure. Perfectly rounded acorns, colourful stones, the more pinecones the better.
Brown doesn’t have to be boring. How many different shades can you see? Look for contrast. Find something smooth, something rough, something surprisingly soft.
Make
Conkers, pinecones, playdough, stones, twigs
Not ready for a dog? Make some snails instead!
To start, roll pieces of playdough into thick cylinders, sculpting the ends into heads and tails.
Press conkers, pinecones, just about anything, firmly into the bodies to form shells. Don’t hold back — the weirder the better!
Too simple? Invent a new species!
To finish, push twigs into each head for eyestalks. Now just remember to mist them regularly and feed every 2-3 days.
Play
Keep the story going by building yourselves (and new housemates) somewhere to hunker down.
Don’t worry about the details. Big, small, impractical. However it turns out, it’s an easy way to get imaginations whirring.
Then once you’re settled in, why not break into some rations? Raisins, seeds, apple slices, or pretzel twigs. Everything always tastes better under a duvet.
Reflect
Memories are rarely made in perfect spaces. When the sofa’s been dismantled, playdough’s trodden into the rug, and you’re finding pinecones in the cutlery drawer, it’s easy to feel the urge to tidy up. But it can wait.
The magic isn't in a tidy home. It’s the shelter you’ve built together.
Last thing: did you know a group of snails is called a walk? Even better, a group of hedgehogs is a prickle! Anyway, we hope you’re feeling a little more prepared for the winter.
Next Friday we’ll be making the most of the shorter days. Can’t wait? Follow FORT on Instagram for picky bits.
Psst! Share this with someone who is 100% ready to hibernate until April.