If you’re looking for a screen-free summer activity that feels like play but sneaks in a little learning too, a DIY magnetic maze game is a fun one to try.

With a cardboard box, a magnet, and a few simple materials, kids can build their own maze and guide a metal piece through it using magnetic force. It’s part craft project, part game, and part science lesson all in one.

What Is a Magnetic Maze Game?

A magnetic maze game is a simple activity where you move a small metal object through a maze using a magnet underneath the board.

Instead of touching the piece directly, the magnet pulls it along from below. As the magnet moves, the metal object follows.

It’s a great way to see magnetic force in action.

Kids can design their own maze, decorate it however they like, and then test how quickly they can guide their piece from start to finish.

Supplies You’ll Need

You likely already have most of these at home:

  • shoebox lid or shallow cardboard box
  • craft sticks, strips of cardboard, or popsicle sticks
  • glue or tape
  • marker
  • paperclip, metal washer, or small steel bead
  • 1 small neodymium magnet
  • stickers, crayons, or paint for decorating

Optional:

  • stopwatch for timed challenges
  • extra magnets to compare strength
  • ruler to design the maze layout

How to Build a DIY Magnetic Maze Game

Step 1: Build Your Maze Base

Start with a shoebox lid or shallow cardboard tray. Using popsicle sticks or strips of cardboard, create pathways inside the box to form a maze. You can make it simple or tricky.

Glue the walls down securely. Leave enough space for your paperclip or metal piece to move through the path. 

Step 2: Add a Start and Finish

Use a marker to label:

  • START
  • FINISH

This makes it feel more like a game and gives kids a clear challenge to complete.

Step 3: Add Your Metal Game Piece

Place a paperclip, steel washer, or other small magnetic object inside the maze.

This will be the piece you move through the path.

Step 4: Use a Magnet Underneath the Maze

Hold the magnet underneath the cardboard. Move it slowly under the maze and watch the paperclip move along above it. You can also glue or tape the magnet to a popsicle stick to make a magnetic wand.

Remember to always supervise children when using magnets.

Recommended Magnet for This Project

For a DIY magnetic maze game, we recommend starting with a ¼” x ½” cylinder magnet. It’s compact, easy to move under cardboard, and strong enough to guide a paperclip or small metal washer through the maze. If you’re using thicker cardboard or a heavier game piece, you may want to size up for extra pull strength.

Step 5: Play and Experiment

Now test your maze.

  • Can you make it through without touching the walls?
  • Can you beat your time?
  • Can someone else solve the maze you built?

You can also swap magnets to test which one moves the piece best.

What Kids Can Learn About Magnets

This project is fun, but it also teaches some great STEM concepts.

Magnetic Attraction

Kids can see how magnets attract certain metals like steel and iron.

Force Through Materials

Even though the magnet is underneath the cardboard, it can still move the paperclip above it.

Distance Matters

Try moving the magnet farther away and notice what happens. Magnetic strength gets weaker with distance.

Problem Solving and Design

Building the maze itself encourages planning, experimenting, and creativity.

Ways to Make Your Maze More Challenging

Want to keep the fun going?

Try:

  • adding tighter corners
  • building dead ends
  • timing each player
  • decorating with a summer theme
  • making two mazes and racing
  • testing different magnet sizes
  • using heavier or lighter metal pieces

You can even challenge kids to build the hardest maze possible and have someone else solve it.

Learn More About Magnets

Looking for more fun ways to explore magnets at home? Visit the Apex Magnets blog for more STEM activities, DIY projects, magnet facts, and hands-on ideas for curious kids and families. Need magnets for your next experiment? Browse our collection of magnets and magnetic products online.

Keyword Phrase: DIY magnetic maze game

Meta Description: Learn how to make a DIY magnetic maze game at home with magnets and simple supplies. A fun summer STEM activity for kids that’s creative and educational.

 

Safety Warning: Children should not be allowed to play with neodymium magnets as they can be dangerous. Small magnets pose a choking hazard and should never be swallowed or inserted into any part of the body.

Magnets can be dangerous. Neodymium magnets, especially, must be handled with care to avoid personal injury and damage to the magnets. Fingers and other body parts can get severely pinched between two attracting magnets. Bones can be broken by larger magnets. Visit our Magnet Safety page to learn more.