Build a gravity-defying maze for marbles using recycled cardboard. Kids will learn about physics, slope, and momentum as they design a path for their marbles to travel from top to bottom.

Tools

• scissors
• masking tape dispenser
• ruler
• pencil
• markers (1 pack for decorating)

Materials

• large cardboard box (1 piece, approx 2ft x 2ft for the base)
• toilet paper rolls (10-15 rolls)
• cardboard scraps (5-10 pieces, cut into 2-inch wide strips)
• masking tape (1 roll)
• marbles (5-10 pieces)

Safety

• Adult supervision required when using scissors.
• Warning: Marbles are a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.
• Be careful of sharp edges on recycled cardboard.
• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Small parts pose a choking hazard. Supervise young children.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Set up your base by leaning a large cardboard box against a wall or standing it upright to create a vertical play surface.
2. Cut the toilet paper rolls in half lengthwise to create 'U-shaped' tracks for the marbles to slide through.
3. Use a ruler and pencil to mark where the first track will start at the top of the box.
4. Tape the first track piece to the box at a slight downward angle so the marble will roll forward.
5. Place a second track piece below the first one, ensuring the end of the first track aligns with the start of the second.
6. Create a 'turn' by angling the track piece to the left or right, ensuring the slope remains steep enough for the marble to keep moving.
7. Use the cardboard strips to create bridges or flat platforms between the tube sections to slow the marble down.
8. Test the run by dropping a marble at the top; if the marble gets stuck or falls off, adjust the angle of the tape and try again.
9. Continue adding tubes and strips to create a long, winding path until you reach the bottom of the box.
10. Decorate the run with markers to add 'start' and 'finish' lines or colorful patterns.
11. Place a small bowl or the lid of a box at the very bottom to catch the marbles.