Built a treehouse with my kids last month - finally got pics!

Dec 261 min read

Remember that post about wanting to build something ambitious? Did it! My 8yo and 10yo spent 6 weekends with me out in the backyard. We used reclaimed wood from a neighbor's deck tear-down and some 2x8 beams. Not gonna lie, there were moments I thought the whole thing would collapse (and one moment where I definitely thought I would collapse lol). But seeing them climb up there yesterday for the first time? Totally worth it. They immediately claimed it as their "fortress" and have already made plans for a rope bridge. Pics: https://imgur.com/xyz

Biggest tip: rent a lift if you can afford it. Saves your back AND your sanity.

6 comments129 views

Comments(6)

TTony V.RegularDec 26

Did you have a design plan going in or just wing it? asking because I want to do something similar but I'm not a builder lol

LLarry P.RegularDec 26

this is incredible. the fact that your kids spent 6 weekends WITH you building something physical and tangible - that's the stuff they'll actually remember. forget the expensive trips, this is it.

WWalter T.RegularDec 27

using reclaimed wood is such a dad move and I'm here for it. your neighbors probably thought you were nuts but kid memories >> aesthetics. bet that treehouse is already their favorite place.

TTerry O.RegularDec 27

ok but how do you get kids to actually stick with a project for 6 weeks? mine lose interest after day 2. what was the trick?

HHenry M.RegularDec 28

replying to the interest question - guessing the fact that it was THEIR treehouse made the difference. not dad building it while kids watch, but dad and kids building it together. they own it.

MMarcus J.RegularDec 28

this is the kind of dad content I come here for. not life hacks, not parenting tips - just a dude and his kids making something. love it