This is an easy & inexpensive Preschool craft activity that boys will love to make.  Just add a few plastic figures for additional fun.

• 4 toilet paper rolls
• Lightweight cardboard
• Black paint
• Straw
• Glue or tape
• Scissors
• Brush
• Pirate Stickers or print Pirate Stickers from "Printables" section

1. Cut four pieces of cardboard, 31/2 in. x 51/2 in.
2. 1/2 in. from both sides (sides are 31/2 in. high), cut a slit 21/4 in. long from bottom.
3. Use one piece to cut an arched doorway, also from the bottom.
4. For each tube, cut one slit 21/4 in. lengthwise, towards center.  Then cut a second slit a quarter of the way around from first slit.  (0 and 90 degree mark)
5. Attach a tube to each side end by sliding the two pieces together where slit meet and push together.
6. When attaching the final side, insert side into both tubes, simultaneously, and slowly push together.
7. Cut a triangle or square flag, then cut a small slit halfway up the side of the flag and slide onto the straw "flagpole".
8. Paint castle and flag.  When dry, attach flagpole to inside of tower with glue or tape. 
9. When completely dry, attach stickers.