From Police Officer to Playtime Creator: Why I Started The Busy Box

Written By Owner - The Busy Box

Hi! I’m Scott. Full-time Police Officer. Dad to two brilliant girls, Piper (4) and Phoebe (2).

Both girls are here after a long and emotional IVF journey. We needed egg donation in the end. The process took years.

In 2019, I had a motorbike accident that changed everything. I broke several bones and damaged the nerves in my right arm. The injury is called a brachial plexus injury. It left my arm partially paralysed.

I suddenly had a lot of time at home. I couldn’t do many of the physical things I used to enjoy. But I could still be with my girls.

Play became my way back.

I started creating simple activities we could enjoy together. No screens. No fuss. Just time spent connecting and creating.

That’s how The Busy Box began.

Now I run it as a monthly subscription for kids, offering themed crafts and activities designed to keep little hands and minds busy. I hope one day it becomes my full-time job.

Here’s what I’ve learned about parenting during that journey.

1. Small Moments Matter More Than Big Ones

You don’t need to plan grand adventures or spend a fortune. Kids don’t remember the cost. They remember how they felt.

Try this:

  • Set up a simple craft table using scrap cardboard and stickers

  • Turn a cardboard box into a robot, boat or house

  • Paint using sponge stamps or fingers

  • Collect stones from the garden and decorate them together

Even 15 minutes of one-on-one time can feel like magic to your child.

We include this kind of activity in every Busy Box, because small things done regularly build real connection.

Ask yourself: When was the last time you sat and made something with your child?

2. Routines Beat Spontaneity When You’re Tired

As a working parent, I don’t have time to reinvent the wheel every day.

That’s why a monthly subscription for kids helps so many families.

You don’t have to plan ahead or scroll Pinterest for hours. The supplies and ideas come to you.

Here’s what helps me stay sane:

  • Set a fixed “craft day” each week

  • Keep one drawer or shelf for activity kits

  • Let kids lead sometimes, they’ll surprise you

  • Don’t aim for perfect results. Aim for smiles

The Busy Box includes easy-to-follow guides and clear goals. Each month has a new theme, new activities, and a story to tie it all together.

You don’t need to be “crafty.” Just open the box and begin.

3. Connection Often Happens Through Doing

Kids don’t always open up during serious chats. But give them glue, felt and a sticker sheet—and suddenly they start talking.

That’s when you learn how their day really went.
That’s when they ask their big questions.
That’s when you bond.

In our house:

  • Piper opens up while painting

  • Phoebe giggles through gluey fingers

  • I forget about work for a while

Crafts are more than just fun. They’re a gateway to connection.

Want to hear what your child is really thinking? Try creating something with them.

4. Kids Learn Through Play (And So Do Grown-Ups)

A lot of parents worry about “getting it right.” I used to.

But children learn by exploring. By making a mess. By trying and failing and trying again.

So do we.

Through play, I’ve learned how to:

  • Use my left hand more confidently

  • Be more patient

  • Enjoy the moment instead of rushing it

Each activity in The Busy Box is designed with age-appropriate learning in mind. For example:

  • Threading felt sea creatures helps toddlers build motor skills

  • Designing jellyfish from bowls and pipe cleaners teaches creativity and problem-solving

  • Painting wooden treasure chests opens up storytelling and pretend play

You don’t need a lesson plan. Just give your child the tools, and watch what they do.

Want Help Getting Started?

If you feel stuck on how to spend meaningful time with your child, you’re not alone.

That’s exactly why I created The Busy Box.

Every box includes:

  • 4 fun and themed crafts

  • All materials included

  • Easy instructions

  • A magical monthly story to bring it all together

You can try one box or subscribe. Either way, it’s one less thing for you to plan, and one more way to enjoy time together.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent or carer, I hope this helps make playtime easier and more fun.

Owner - The Busy Box

At The Busy Box, we deliver joy, creativity and learning straight to your door—one box at a time.

Each month, your child will receive a themed box filled with hands-on crafts, engaging activities, and sensory fun designed to spark imagination and support early development. Whether it’s building a cardboard rocket, exploring the jungle through art, or making their own mini garden, every Busy Box is packed with everything your little one needs to stay happily busy!

Created by parents, for parents, The Busy Box is here to make screen-free play simple, fun, and mess-friendly (mostly!). Our activities are tailored for children aged 1 to 6 and come with easy-to-follow instructions, eco-conscious materials, and a sprinkle of magic in every parcel.

Give your child a creative adventure each month—with The Busy Box, playtime just got a whole lot more exciting.

https://www.thebusybox.co.uk