DIY ball run
Build a simple ball run using cardboard tubes and tape! Experiment with different objects like pom poms, marbles, small balls, or even toy cars to see how they roll, bounce, or race.
Turn cardboard tubes into an exciting DIY ball run! Simply tape them to a wall, door, or large piece of cardboard and create ramps, tunnels, or twists for objects to roll through. Making the run can be part of the play if your child is developmentally ready.
Test different items - pom poms, marbles, small balls, or even toy cars - and observe how they move. Adjust angles and pathways to change speed and direction, sparking curiosity and problem-solving.
Whether played solo or with a...
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Gather cardboard tubes and small objects for rolling.
Step 2:
Cut tubes at different angles to create ramps or split sections (optional).
Step 3:
Decide on a surface - wall, door, or large cardboard base.
Step 4:
Tape tubes in different arrangements to form a continuous path.
Play
Step 1:
Drop a pom pom, ball, or marble into the top of the ball run and watch it go!
Step 2:
Experiment with different angles and tube placements to change speed and movement.
Step 3:
Try sending multiple objects through at once—do they go at the same speed?
Step 4:
Adjust the track, adding curves or obstacles, to explore how changes affect motion.
Step 5:
Race small cars or balls to see which reaches the bottom first!
Extend
Target Drop: Place a bowl or cup at the end of the run and try to land objects inside.
Get crafty: Decorate the tubes with paint, markers and/or stickers as an extra activity beforehand.
Chain reaction: Set up dominoes or a small lever at the bottom to be triggered when the ball drops. It could be the start of a DIY Rube Goldberg machine!
