When the rain pours and the “I’m bored” comments come tumbling out of your kids’ mouths, it’s time to get them involved in a project! Plan and create this popsicle stick marble run with your kids, and let them enjoy it when you’re finished.

Difficulty level: Intermediate
Time to complete: 30-45 minutes
Age range: 10+

Things you’ll need:
Popsicle sticks
Hot glue gun
Glue sticks
Scissors
Shoebox lid

Things to do:
1. First you’ll need to cut several sticks in half. I did this by finding the half-way point, drawing a line on both sides, then scoring the stick with scissors on the front and back.

2. Soon you’ll be able to easily snap those sticks in half.

3. Next, plan your marble run with a couple of entry points and one exit point. Make sure the “lanes” are wide enough for your marble or rubber ball, and create some twists and turns so it’s not too easy.

4. Once you’ve planned the marble run, warm up your hot glue gun. Keep the sticks in place, but when gluing, turn each up on on its edge and glue in place in the lid.