Marble Runs

It’s raining outside and the kids (and you) are going crazy.

Got some marbles? Why not make something before you lose yours altogether?

Grab some painter’s masking tape - the kind that won’t damage the walls, empty toilet or paper towel rolls or some tubing, some cardboard or heavy paper, some imagination, a sprinkle of nostalgia and make a marble run.

Choose a blank piece of wall or even the back of a door to begin. Start at the bottom with a marble catcher. This can be any shape you like, as long as it is big enough to catch the glass cannonballs as they hurtle down the dark channel. Make sure it is not too big as it won’t attach to the wall.

Work your way up from the bottom using tape to attach the tubing of plastic or cardboard, attaching it to the wall in any shape you like, with twists and turns and funnels and tunnels. Be sure to test each section as you go so you can make any adjustments along the way. Roll up pieces of heavy duty paper or cardboard into cones for even more action and variety.

You are limited only by your imagination and your wall space. Girls and boys of all ages will love this activity rain, hail or shine, and I suspect you might enjoy it too. Don’t leave the tape up too long or you might damage the paint, and anyway, you’ll want to make a faster and more exciting version next time you need an indoor activity. Even if the kids are not home to help.....