Build a sitting spot

What can we use instead of large cardboard, strong tape, or rope if those are hard to find?

If you don't have large cardboard, strong tape, or rope, tape smaller corrugated boxes together to form a base, use duct tape or heavy-duty packing tape to secure the folded parts, and substitute long shoelaces, fabric strips, or twine for the rope.

Why does the seat wobble when we sit on it, and how can we fix it?

If the seat wobbles during the two-person test, tighten the rope knots, add more strong tape to the folded seams, and reinforce the base by taping a second layer of cardboard under the seat or slipping rolled magazines or thin wooden slats inside the fold.

How can this activity be adapted for younger children or made more challenging for older kids?

For younger children, have an adult do the measuring, marking, and cutting while kids help fold the cardboard, wrap rope, and arrange cushions, and for older kids let them measure with the ruler, cut the cardboard, design a sturdier backrest, and test strength themselves.

How can we make the sitting spot comfier, stronger, or more personal after it's built?

To improve comfort and style, cover the taped cardboard base with a colorful blanket or fabric glued or taped in place, add sewn or taped pockets to the backrest for books, paint or add stickers to personalize it, and strengthen the seat by taping extra cardboard layers or inserting thin wooden dowels.