Simple DIY tricks: 6 ways to make your house truly magical for kids

Ever bought a big expensive toy; spent hours assembling it, then watched as your kids have more fun playing with the box it came in?

If so, you’ll know that imagination is better than priceless - it’s free! Yes, you can easily transform various areas of your home into magical spaces your kids will adore... and all you need is a few bits and bobs. And if you’re looking for something to do with your children, take the AIG Family Time Quiz and find the perfect way to make memories. 1) Canopies work wonders A canopy can be fixed over a bed to create a royal boudoir. Use tulle or netting for a feminine look, or make it edgy with camouflage or tepee detailing. You can use a similar canopy setup in the corner of a room to create a comfy reading nook where kids can escape into stories. Add a soft floor pad or rug and some cushions for cosiness, and put a ‘no screens allowed’ sign on it so it’s a designated reading space only.

A post shared by Linda (@mrsmalmgren) on Apr 22, 2017 at 9:32am PDT

2. Reimagine furniture  Kids grow out of things quickly - but with a bit of imagination you can rehash furniture and get loads more use from it. Take the side off a cot, for example, and create a colouring station. Only one of those bunks being used now? You can turn the frame upside down and remove the top mattress; then add fabric to make a very impressive customised bed/hidey hole. 3. Nurture nature Kids are enchanted by watching things grow, so plant a fairy garden in any green space. Take them to the beach to gather white pebbles and shells to decorate the borders, and plant fast-blooming summer flowers or even some vegetables. Teach them how to nurture nature by feeding, weeding, and watering.

A post shared by Natalie (@athomewithnatalie) on Apr 26, 2017 at 12:22pm PDT

4. Lend a hand Always let the kids help you design; they get much more jazzed about projects they have a hand in. Sometimes all you need is some markers and paper! Turn the box room or a part of the garage into an arts and crafts studio, with everything you could possibly need (glue, safety scissors, pencils, craft paper) to while away a rainy afternoon. The bonus? It'll save your kitchen or living room from splashes of poster paint and errant Lego pieces.

A post shared by Sarah Sandidge (@lulainlondon) on Apr 18, 2017 at 7:40am PDT

5. Identify a blank canvas  Simple games that get everyone involved are the best memories you’ll make with your children. Bust out the chalk and turn the patio into a huge easel, or paint an entire wall of the kitchen in chalkboard paint and watch them unleash their inner Banksy! Then no matter what the weather, you can make the most of the magical home you’ve created. 6. Illuminate A really simple and cost-efficient way to make a space/area or everyday household item more magical is with the use of fairy lights. Get strings of coloured or white lights and dress up a corner of the garden, a bedroom, or the staircase. There are plenty of varieties to choose from too - including heart- and star-shaped fairy lighting - for those who want to add in a nice bit of extra detail.   Check out the AIG website for more inspiration.  Looking for something to do with your family today? Take our Family Time Quiz and find your perfect day! Family time is precious; let us help you make the most of yours.