Smart Toys for Smart Kids:

Our children and grandchildren are special, and it’s our job to keep them that way. That is why we are asking you to join with us in the “Smart Toys for Smart Kids” initiative. Does that video game promote violence? That ‘onesie’ may be adorable, but do you really want to see your grandbaby dressed in military camouflage? The subtle and not-so-subtle messaging of toys, games and even clothing can have an impact on impressionable young children.

Here are ideas for making Shoe Box Gifts:
(If you don't have a shoe box, a plastic food storage container is fine. Sandwich bags or small food containers will help keep things organized. Add decorations and/or instructions to give your present that personal touch.) Download instructions for these boxes, a play dough recipe, and more. And check out our What's Cooking? page and create a family heirloom.

Play Dough Box
• buy a can of Play-Doh or make your own • garlic press • plastic knife • popsicle sticks • wooden dowel • plastic lids • small tray/plate • buttons/beads •

Rescue/First Aid Box
• flashlight • band aids • fabric strips/ bandages • ace bandage • sling • eye patch • gauze • stethoscope • surgical mask •

Diary/Scrap Book Box
• blank journal or notebook (Glue a picture of the child you are giving this to on the front of the notebook.) • drawing supplies like colored pencils, crayons and/or watercolors • stick-on labels • origami paper or other colored paper • blunt scissors • glue stick •

Gift Shopping Suggestions for Tweens:

• Guitar Hero is a favorite.
• So are karaoke games/machines (mostly girls)
• Flipcams - make a video diary etc.
• Gift cards for iTunes
• Sports related stuff -- especially if a favorite team is involved -- and tickets to sports events are a big whoop.
  
• Tickets to the theater -- There are 'cheap ticket' services that make this affordable.
• Gift cards for movie theaters
• A Netflix subscription
• Drum sticks and a practice pad
• Electronic keyboard (If you don't live with the intended recipient, check first with the adults who do.)

Gifts for all ages:

• World maps, globes - Laminated placemats of the Peters Projection (an area accurate world map) available from ODT maps

More Gifts our younger grandchildren love:


Cyclone Tube available from the Science eStore (under $5.00)


Rocket Balloon With Pump available from Schylling (under $10.00)

"50 Science Things to Make & Do" available from Science eStore (under $10.00)

"Doodles: A Really Giant Coloring and Doodling Book available at Amazon.com (under $15.00)

Science Wiz Electricity Kit available from www.sciencewiz.com
(under $20.00)

NO WAR, NO WAR TOYS

More smart toys to come.