Some days, no matter how many toys you've got around the house, the kid needs something new to play with. For this, I suggest this super simple crafted toy: the recycling bin maraca. Somewhere in that bin you have just what you need... Is it a quart milk jug, or an Odwalla juice bottle, or conditioner bottle? Doesn't matter. Basically, a smallish, thin walled, plastic container with a secure lid. I used a tiny jug that I bought molasses in, which was nice because it has a kid-sized handle.

Clean and dry this container well. Drop about 10 unpopped popcorn kernels, or dry black or pinto beans, or some very small pebbles in there. Then find some nontoxic glue and dab a tiny bit on the threads of the lid. Screw the lid on tightly, and give the glue ten minutes to set up.

Voila! Shake it as a demo for your child, and then let them try it out. If you child is used to rattles, the learning process will be rapid.

As a side note: If your kid likes to bang things, the glue bond might eventually break. In this case, you would be best with a dab of flexible silicone caulk if you have it. Regardless, check periodically to ensure that the lid is really well screwed on - a loose lid could become a choking hazard. - Leigh G.