The last time I was at the hardware store, I stocked up on a few items that could make a quick activity for a toddler once put together. A snowy day at home was the perfect moment to pull out those items, and this “toy” came together in moments!

First up was a length of clear plastic tubing, which is usually available in bulk at the store and you can ask to have it cut to size. I asked for two feet, although next time I might make it closer to three feet. Make sure your tubing is wide enough for marbles to roll through; that’s about 1 inch for regular marbles, but I have small decorative marbles at home that fit in 1/2-inch tubing.

Next, I used hot glue to attach a rubber cork (also available at hardware stores) into one end of the tube. Fill the tube with the previously-mentioned marbles or beads, then glue a second rubber cork in the other end. The toy is ready!

Veronika actually managed to pull the second cork off, but luckily the hot glue had created enough of a seal that the tube still worked without the marbles rolling out. From here, she loved holding it up to watch the items slide around.

She also turned it into a belt.

Or kitty ears, or a necklace!

If you prefer, you can add a little vegetable oil into the tube before gluing on the second cork; just make sure your corks are very secure if you choose to go this liquid route.