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Last week, we were coming home from running some errands and we saw a garage sale with lots of toys. Henry asked if we could stop, so he and I got out to check out the goods. They had some great things and the prices were great! We got a really cool Hot Wheels launcher for $1. This $1 investment turned into an afternoon of creative play when I remembered something I’d seen on Pinterest- painter’s tape roads! I’ve also seen this idea using masking tape, but in my experience, masking tape leaves a sticky residue. You don’t want anything attracting dirt to the carpet, so I’d stick with painter’s tape just to be safe.
Very soon, our roads were not sufficient, so we began to build a town for the cars to travel through and enjoy. 🙂
Here is our Tape Town Target. It comes complete with a wonderful toy department, stocked with Thomas trains and The Hulk. But before you can buy any toys, you need to go to the bank to get some money (because that’s what mom’s do-go to the bank and they give you dollars.)
So naturally, here’s the bank. Note the real money safely locked away inside. There’s even a drive-through window around the bank!
Reflecting our current Thomas “kick,” we had a station for the townspeople to go for train rides. This too, cost money, so a stop at the bank first was necessary.
Lastly, we had a zoo, stocked completely with Diego jungle animals. That is, until Char-zilla came and left his mark on things. The end of nap time often spells then end of detailed and complicated creative play for Henry. Such is the life of a middle child. 🙂
I’m sure you don’t really care to see photos of my living room, my kids and their toys, but just humor me. 🙂 My point is to show that this isn’t just one of those good ideas that doesn’t deliver in reality. A child’s imagination can generate a wonderful world and hours of play if you just give it a gentle nudge in the right direction! Next time you need a few minutes to get something down, pull out the roll of tape!
Linking up with Whimsy Wednesday, Homework Wednesdays, All Things Pretty, Family Fun Fridays, DIY Sunday Showcase, Super Sunday Link Party, Marvelous Mondays, What’d You Do This Weekend, On Display Monday
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Mel says
I’ve been meaning to do this with my kids so much fun by the way actually laughed out loud at lego target, HILARIOUS Mommy must be quite the regular!
Nicole Burkholder says
We tried to find something make the giant balls outside the store, but no luck 🙂
Sarah says
I just love this idea! I have a 20 month old who is OBSESSED with anything that has wheels. I will definitely try this idea- maybe even this afternoon since we’re stuck inside with crummy weather here in New England! Thanks for saving my day!
Nicole Burkholder says
You’re very welcome! Hope you guys get a break in the weather!
Danita @O Taste And See says
That is a GREAT idea! I wish I’d thought of that when my son was little. He still loves tape at twelve, although he’s moved up to Duct Tape.
Nicole Burkholder says
What is it with kids and tape? 🙂 My son asks to play with Scotch tape all the time!
Megan says
This is such a GREAT idea!! My 3 boys would LOVE to do this! I’m sure it will come in handy this winter when they get bored! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
OneMommy says
My son is so excited by these pictures — pinning for us to do later!
Nicole Burkholder says
Those tape strips generated several hours of fun! 🙂
Lori Who Needs A Cape? says
So cute, yet so simple! My kids would have a blast with this! Found your link on Whimsy Wednesdays 🙂
We’re hosting our SUPER SUNDAY Link Party, stop by and link up! Our readers would enjoy this post too!
Lori
Who Needs A Cape?
Not Your Average Super Moms!
Nicole Burkholder says
Thanks for visiting! I’ll head over to your link party this afternoon!
Bethany says
What a fun idea! My son would love this!
Nicole Burkholder says
I finally pulled it up after three days of fun 🙂
Mel says
How fun, Painters tape is genius, I agree sticky on carper NOT GOOD!
Carrie This Home says
What a cute idea! My kids would love this! I’ll have to try it soon.
Stopping by from Whimsy Wednesday–have a great week!
Nicole Burkholder says
Thanks! Mine sure did! 🙂