DIY: Mini marshmallow gun + safety goggles

In less than a month my 9 year old will be home on summer vacation for 10 long, hot weeks. And because we've dragged our feet deciding whether to send him off to camp he'll be home each day expecting to be entertained. Then there'll be the days when his buddies will be over from the crack of dawn until the street lights brighten the night sky and I'll want them out of my precious home for as many hours as I can get away with. Those days call for something a little more special.

That's why I'm completely amped about this tutorial for making a miniature marshmallow gun and safety goggles from Amy of the super-cool/super-crafty parenting site The Idea Room. With a few rummages of the junk draw/toolbox, a quick search through the garage, and one trip the Home Depot you'll have everything you need to assemble some sweet, ouch-free shooters. And because I'm banking on the kid-friendly construction of this project the plan is to have my boy and his pals assist in making their gear before heading outside for their battle royale. This activity is so much bang for you buck calling for problem solving skills, reading comprehension, math and exercise. I'll be the coolest parent on the block all while gobbling up the longest hours of a summer day.