Beading isn't just sissy stuff, it's actually grounded in math curriculum and promotes constructive creativity. Sequencing lays the foundation for understanding number sense and patterns, while the act of measuring helps to practice geometric concepts. And, as any nine-year-old girl will tell you, it's also really cool to make your own jewelry. This kit includes over 3,000 beads, measuring tape, clasps, beading wire, earing hooks, two sets of pliers, ribbon, and a beading design tray so that kids can play around with color choices and pattern before stringing up their project. A how-to booklet provides tips for making jewelry that friends and family would be proud to wear. Turn a boring afternoon into a design workshop, and get some creative math practice, too! (Alex, $44.99)