Youth Activity Archive

Activity Description: Youth build a simple cardboard maze inside a shoebox lid and test it with a marble.

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Items Needed:

• Shoebox lid
• Cardboard strips
• Scissors
• Glue or tape
• Marble or small ball
• (Optional) Markers or stickers for decorating
• (Optional) Popsicle sticks or pipe cleaners to use as maze walls instead of cardboard strips.

Before the Meeting Starts:

1. Cut cardboard into strips. (5 min)
   • Strips should be about ½ inch wide and 3–6 inches long.
   • (Optional) Decorate the strips before building.
   • (Optional) Use popsicle sticks or pipe cleaners instead of cardboard strips.

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 20–30 min):

1. Plan the maze layout. (5 min)
   • Arrange the strips inside the shoebox lid to create paths and turns.
   • Leave enough space for the marble to roll through.
2. Build the maze walls. (10 min)
   • Glue or tape the cardboard strips into place.
   • Press each strip down firmly and let the glue dry slightly before continuing.
3. Test the maze. (5 min)
   • Place the marble at the start and tilt the box to guide it through the path.
   • Adjust any walls if the marble gets stuck or the maze is too easy.
4. (Optional) Add finishing touches. (5 min)
   • Add start and finish labels or decorate the maze with a fun theme.

Step-by-Step Tutorials:

• Alternative Instructions: Surrey Scouts – Marble Maze
• Video: Palatine Library – Shoebox Marble Maze