Sketch a plan for a Rube Goldberg machine

What can we use if we don't have typical small moving objects like marbles or toy cars?

Use coins or bottle caps as rolling pieces, paper cups or a tilted textbook as ramps, and rubber bands or string as connectors to meet the 'pick 3 to 6 small household objects' step.

What should we do if one component doesn't trigger the next when we test the plan?

Re-draw or shift that numbered component, change the arrow direction or angle, and use tape or a small tilt (as in steps 6–9 where you sketch components and draw arrows) until the movement consistently goes to the right toward the next part.

How can we change the activity for younger or older kids?

For younger children, limit the plan to 3 large, soft objects with big drawings and one-sentence labels beside each number, while older kids can use 5–6 smaller items, precise arrows and angles, and a more complex final action as they follow the 'pick 3 to 6' and 'write one short sentence beside each numbered component' steps.

How can we improve or personalize the Rube Goldberg plan before sharing it on DIY.org?

Color-code arrows, decorate and label the Start and Finish boxes, add a brief note about the chosen simple final action, and include a photo or plan for building the real version using the specific household objects you listed.