Gift Guide2008
From toys that stand the test of time to board games that are anything but boring, we found the best products for each grade that will build your child's brain as well as being chock full of fun. Our list of loot is kid-tested, teacher approved, and full of options for any family, so get wrappin'!
Blik Blok
If you've spent time in an elementary classroom, you've probably seen "tangrams". Teachers use them to introduce geometry and build visual-spatial perception. This puzzle game brings tangrams into three dimensions, challenging kids to configure blocks into arrangements designed by real architects.
Square Up!
This game looks really easy when you see the box, but looks can be deceiving! Shake up the little canister and you'll get a random pattern of colored blocks, which players then race to duplicate on a flat tray of tiles. It's a boon for math and science, and can become addictive.
Pretty Darn Quick
Do you think you're QUiCk? How's your VocaBuLary? The Pretty Darn Quick Word Game will help you find out! This game is fun and educational, so challenge your child to a round and prepare for major laughs, and a chance to strengthen vocabulary skills along the way.
Brother Sewing Machine
Got a tween who's glued to the tube for every Project Runway episode? Introduce your designer-to-be to the creative possibilities of owning a sewing machine! The practice of sewing ones own clothing may seem like ancient history, but stitching for style is enjoying a well-deserved renaissance.
Leatherman Juice CS4 Pocket Multi-Tool
Your teen may be able to talk his way out of any situation, but talking won't open cans, saw branches, or furnish four different screwdrivers to get the job done. That's where the Leatherman multi-tool comes in.
ABC Blocks
In this age of disposable toys, it's rare to come across something meant to last more than a year. These blocks are an exception: beautifully crafted of solid maple and painted with vibrant, non-toxic inks. Whether your kid wants to build a tower, or a word, he's got the tools to do it in style.
Easy Bake Oven
Since 1963 this simple little toy has been wowing boys and girls alike with its plastic paddle and mysterious cook-by-lightbulb design. This year, the oven celebrates its 45th anniversary. A perfect way to get your kid excited about the prospect of putting on an apron.
Sudoku Jr. 4 x 4
Think Sudoku is too advanced for your first grader? Think again. This is a kid-friendly version of the popular puzzles. In this version, the 48 playing cards only contain the numbers 1-4, and children must place the color-coded tokens on the cards to complete the challenge. Kids, we've got your ...
Storytelling Game
Storytelling is an important activity for second graders, who are beginning to read more complex chapter books and write their own short stories. This fast-paced memory game is a great way to get the literary juices flowing!
Knot a Hat-n-Scarf
All children need to know how to do to create the scarf and hat projects outlined in this kit is to tie a simple knot. That's it. And the projects come out looking like something you might find at your local craft fair! A brilliant introduction to the world of crafting.
