Margarine-Tub Drum

Loud salutes have been an Independence Day tradition since the Liberty Bell rang in 1776. Your child can sound off with this rhythmic noisemaker.

To make one, you'll need a small margarine tub and lid, colored duct tape, a 3/8-inch dowel cut to an 8-inch length, two 6-inch pieces of string and two wood beads.

First, decorate the tub and lid with shapes cut out of the tape. Use a craft knife (parents only) to cut a 3/8-inch hole through one side of the tub and slide the end of the dowel through it. With the dowel facing down, poke a small hole in each side of the tub. Thread a piece of string through each hole and knot the ends inside the tub. Tie a bead onto the free end of each piece of string. By rolling the dowel back and forth in his hands, your child can make his own one-drum salute.