Diane, from Derbyshire, made this homemade cardboard slot machine to keep the kids amused. Better still, it gives a win almost every time! Let’s have a look…

Things you need:

  • strong cardboard
  • sellotape
  • thin clear plastic that was from a box of chocolate
  • lots of patience

Instructions:

I originally made a mechanical winder to move the money tray in & out, but the cardboard just wasn’t strong enough. So I did away with it all together & just made a money tray that could easily be moved in & out manually. I added two handles to make it easy to move the tray. 

I also made a collection point for the money to fall into, plus it was a win most of the time, whereas, in the real ones, some money feeds back into the machine.

Brilliant fun & my boys love it!

Do you have anything else lined up to do?

I have a few makes on my list to make while we’re on lockdown but I’m lacking in cardboard at the moment. I’ll ask my neighbours on social media if they have any bits I can use for our crafts. My kitchen currently looks like the local recycling centre!

Tell us all a bit about yourself…

My name is Diane. I’m a part-time cleaner, so currently not working under the circumstances. I have 4 children my oldest son is 20, my only daughter is 17 & my 2 youngest sons are 6 & 3. I’m from Derbyshire in the UK.

How is the current lockdown for you?

I’m feeling very positive about lockdown with my kids. My husband is a key worker (mechanic) and is still working full time. So, I’m at home to entertain my kids daily. To be honest, I’m loving it. I’m making the most of having them all at home, keeping them busy with our crafts. Think I’ll still be crafting when they’re back at school.

Do you have any tips for others?

Not really any tips, but keep busy. Take a moment to yourself if it all gets too much. Keep a good routine. Don’t stress yourself – enjoy your time with your kids. This is never going to happen again in our lifetime. 

Has the community helped?

Housebound with Kids has been brilliant in finding something for us to make things my boys can do themselves, or with a little help.