Gift Guide2009
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'!
Fifteen Puzzle
First invented in 1880, this pocket-sized numerical puzzle became wildly popular in the 1930's. Now it's making a comeback with this retro version.
Electric Plane Launcher
Got half an hour to spare? Experiment with motion, physics, and beginner electronics by creating this super cool launcher for paper airplanes.
Stomp Rocket Super High Performance
Sometimes the best things in life are also the most simple. That goes for the stomp rocket, one of the greatest, and simplest, toys around.
DNA Science Kit
With this hands-on kit, kids can explore the science behind genetics, as they build a DNA ladder, puzzle out gender chromosomal patterns, and even extract actual DNA!
Stitch-it Flowery Handbag Kit
This funky handbag is crafty bliss. Kids thread the pre-punched felt pieces together to create a flowery handbag for any occasion.
Artifact
What if Indiana Jones designed the Monopoly board? He might end up with something like Artifact, a globe-trotting game that challenges players to recover ancient stolen works of art.
World of Goo
This engaging game takes the challenge of defying gravity to gooey new levels of fun. Players construct towers, bridges and other structures out of wiggly (and very cute) gobs of goo!
Stitch-it Pink Piggies Kit
At this age, kids are just starting to dig into longer, more in-depth projects. This kit is a perfect way to practice working on something complex from start to finish.
Bocce Tournament Set
Long revered in Italy as the perfect way to pass a sunny afternoon, bocce is beginning to catch on as a low-key antidote to high-energy athletic pastimes.
The Indie Rock Coloring Book
If your teen loves the indie tones of such bands as Devendra Banhart, Iron and Wine, and the Shins, or if indie rock is just getting on her radar, this whimsical coloring book is the perfect gift.
