Here are a few things to help you prepare for your first training in September. Enclosed you will find a copy of the Balls and Tracks guide for your reference. On the back page of the book, you will find ordering information. I suggest that you call KELVIN at 1-800-756-1025 to order the guides for your program leaders. I would not use their online ordering service because it can result in long delays.
In addition, you will find an information sheet that describes the type of foam insulation that works best for this unit, and where it can be purchased. If you choose to use another type of foam that is fine, but make sure it meets the specs I have outlined here. Most importantly, check to make sure the foam you choose bends easily and does not kink or fold. I went online and located ACE hardware stores in your area that carry the foam we recommend, and I hope this is helpful to you.
We recommend that you purchase the following foam insulation for the Balls and Tracks unit. This product is the right size, has good “bend ability” features and is reasonably priced. You will need to buy one 6 foot length of foam insulation for each group of children working at your sites. The guide says 12 feet, but you get that when you cut the 6 foot length in half lengthwise and tape the ends together.
• Ace Hardware Item number 47645
• Made by TUNDRA
• In a blue cardboard box, (40 per case or sold individually)
• Pieces of foam have 5/8” thick wall and are 6’ long
• Tan colored
• Fits a ¾” Pipe (very important)
Some of you may have trouble locating marbles in bulk. I have seen bags of marbles sold in pet stores, as fish owners use them to cover the floors of their aquariums. So, if your toy store doesn’t have enough, try the local pet store.
For some of the later explorations, you may want to include metal or wooden balls. (optional)
• Metal balls with a ½ inch diameter are sold as ball bearings in many hardware stores, or can be ordered on line at Boca Bearing for 45 cents each at http://www.bocabearings.com/main1.aspx?p=product&id=1532&n=1/2IN_CHROME_GR.25_BALLS_(EA.)
• Wooden balls with a ½ inch diameter are often available at craft stores or can be ordered online. Woodworkers, Ltd sells a bag of 100 ½-inch wooden balls for $2.75. Their website is at http://www.craftparts.com/mall/Balls.asp .
Hope this helps! I look forward to seeing you all in California next month. Until then, please feel free to call or e-mail me with any questions. Good luck!
Martha Davis
mdavis@edc.org
(617)618 - 2851