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.

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