Have you noticed when you give a child a gift that they play around with the toy for a short while but then they become fascinated by the packaging?
Parenting on Female First
If this tends to happen on special occasions, it seems that many children are also doing the same thing.
A new survey has revealed that 74% of children aged two to 11 are happy and inspired playing with a cardboard box but 54% found inspiration with just a blanket as a plaything.
A further 25% were content with an empty washing-up liquid bottle. Pens and paper occupied 39%, while 9% got play inspiration from wrapping paper.
The research carried out by Barny, the bear-shaped snack, also found that nearly half of the mums questioned claimed they still feel pressure to buy pricey high tech gadgets such as a tablet, computer or games console for their children.
Despite the unpredictable British weather, mums enjoy outdoor activities as 65% go to the seaside and 29% of mums take their kids to the local park.
Other favourite outdoor adventures include making dens 28%, visiting a petting farm 25% and treasure hunts 22%.
Top household items which inspire children:
1. Cardboard box (74%)
2. Blanket (54%)
3. Pens and paper (39%)
4. Empty washing-up liquid bottle (25%)
5. Wrapping paper (9%)