MASKED THE PLAY

A book corner is any inviting place for your children to read, away from the hustle and bustle of the household. Your home may already offer some built-in corners: a window seat, loft or hearth. A few cushions and a good reading light are all the furnishings you need.But if the architecture does not lend itself to cosy corners, you may want to improvise. For example how about setting up a camp-site in your children’s room? Drape a sheet or blanket over a card table or some chairs for a tent. You can also buy a pop-up tent that is attached to a fitted bed sheet, or put up a real tent that does not require staking. Inside the tent go a few cushions, a sleeping bag, a battery-operated light, and maybe a book or two inspired by the setting. When your children are not camped out with a good book, the tent makes a great place for creative play or time alone.
A large box makes a nifty room-within-a-room. Cut off the top and line the bottom with a carpet scrap and some cushions or old pillows. Your children may consider this their cabin, cave or reading room.
Here’s another unusual environment you or your children can set up easily: create a jungle or woods with a circle of large houseplants. What better place to read animal and nature stories?
While a comfortable chair will often do, a special place that inspires the imagination may also inspire your children to settle in for a good long read.

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