Create a cookie dunker

What can we use instead of drinking straws or a clothespin if we can't find them?

Line two pencils, chopsticks, or a wooden skewer end-to-end and tape them together as the handle and use a small binder clip, peg, or clothespin substitute wrapped with a rubber band to clamp the cookie as in the original straw-and-clothespin step.

My cookie keeps slipping or the clothespin connection is loose—how can I fix that?

Tighten the grip by wrapping the rubber band around the clothespin hinge and the taped end of the straws, add extra tape around the clothespin-and-straw joint, and make sure the straw handle is taped flat onto the cardboard near the folded 1 cm drip lip so the clothespin reaches securely over the edge.

How can I adapt this cookie dunker activity for different age groups?

For younger children have an adult cut the 15 cm × 10 cm cardboard, pre-fold the 1 cm drip lip, and attach the taped straw-and-clothespin so the child only clamps and dunks, while older kids can measure dunk times, design different drip-lip heights, swap handle materials, or decorate and document results for a science comparison.

What are some ways to extend or personalize the cookie dunker after finishing the basic version?

Decorate the cardboard base with markers or stickers, tape a simple paper timer or ruler next to the folded drip lip to record dunk times, try swapping milk for different liquids to compare soak results, or replace the taped straws with a wooden dowel for a sturdier handle.