Windproof Piggy Dens: Den Building Outdoor Activity for Reception

Challenge your class to build a windproof shelter for the Three Little Pigs. Using large loose parts, children negotiate space, lift heavy objects safely, and work cooperatively before testing their structures against a cardboard 'wind'.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Share the Story

Read or retell the story of the Three Little Pigs outdoors. Emphasise the Big Bad Wolf blowing the houses down. Ask: 'How can we build a strong house out here that won't blow away?'

2. Plan the Shelter

Group the children and look at the loose parts available. Encourage them to discuss which materials will make the strongest walls and roof. 'Will this tarpaulin blow away? How can we secure it?'

3. Team Construction

Stand back and observe as they build. Intervene only to support safe lifting ('team lifting' for heavy crates) or to mediate sharing. Watch them negotiate space and collaborate to prop up planks.

4. The Wind Test

Take on the role of the Big Bad Wolf! Use a large, stiff piece of cardboard to fan heavy 'wind' at their shelter while saying the famous rhyme. Do the walls stay up? Does the roof flap away?

5. Review and Reinforce

Discuss the results. If a den collapsed, praise their effort and problem-solve together: 'It fell down, but that is okay! How can we make it stronger next time? Should we use heavier crates?'

Classroom Adaptations

Large class?

Split into three smaller groups, each building a house of 'straw', 'sticks', or 'bricks'.

Limited resources?

Use small twigs and leaves to build miniature dens for toy pigs instead of large structures.

Mixed ages?

Older children can manage the structural design while younger peers fetch and carry materials.

High ability?

Introduce basic lashing techniques with string to secure planks together.