- Find the perfect holiday gift for anyone you love.
- Available on Amazon for last-minute shopping.
- And a third thing?
Your guide to
Kids Are All Right
A list of exploratory kits, games, and toys that will have the kids solving puzzles and building their way to understanding how things work.
Model Rocket Kit
Send rockets soaring up over 1,000 feet in a flash, and watch them parachute back down to safety. Controlled explosions have never been so fun! This kit includes a platform, launch controller, and a model rocket to build. Don’t forget a pair of AA batteries, wadding so your parachute doesn’t burn up, and most importantly, a few engines.
Glow-in-the-Dark Star Chart
These detailed seasonal star charts will help you identify constellations and planets in the night sky. Especially good for trips away from urban light pollution. The book is waterproof, so you don’t have to be too precious with it on a camping trip.
Erector Super Construction Set
Erector sets are the time-tested standard for kids who want to learn about, and build, simple machines. This kit contains loads of parts, including a battery operated motor and instructions to build 25 models like cars, cranes, and catapults. Best for ages 10 and up. Again, don’t forget those AA batteries.
Lap Loom
This 12 inch x 16 inch lap loom is perfect for learning the basic techniques for weaving tapestries, wall hangings, bags, pillows, place mats, purses, and more. The Loom Kit comes with everything you need to complete your first project: 100% pure wool weft yarn, 1 ounce of cotton warp string, 1 tapestry needle, 2 wooden shed sticks, 2 wooden stick shuttles, and illustrated instructions. Recommended for ages 7 and up.
Electronic Snap Circuits Kit
This highly-rated kit lets you build electronic projects like a doorbell, a motion detector “burglar alarm,” and an AM radio. The components all snap easily together, so no extra tools are involved. Rave reviews for this one. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Once again, grab a pack of those AA batteries.
Snap Circuits Alternative Energy Kit
Another kit in the popular snap circuit series, this kit has detailed instructions for projects on solar cells, windmills, kinetic energy harvesting, and geothermal power. No tools required. Recommended for ages 8 and up. True to theme, this one even comes with its own rechargeable battery.
Spirograph Deluxe Design Set
Crank out mesmerizing spiral designs with the classic spirograph you know and love. The holes in the gears are a bit bigger than the older sets you might remember, so you can use them with most pens or markers you might want to experiment with. The set includes 19 wheels, 2 rings, 1 rack, spiro-putty, 3 pens, a 14-page guide book, design paper, and a carry-along storage case.
Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Glider
This amazingly-capable aircraft will soar and turn loops even in the hands of a novice. Just as fun as you remember. Maybe consider picking up a couple if you’re buying for an enthusiastic daredevil pilot. No glue required.
Simon
Put down the smart phone. Bask in the glow of the four colored buttons! This is a full-sized version of the classic memory game from the ’80s. Be warned, though! Simon has a multi-player mode now. Don’t let it ruin the festive atmosphere.
Mini Remote Control Quadcopter
Weighing in at only 16.5 grams, this little guy is safe to fly indoors. It has flight stabilization software to keep it in a stable hover as well as an “agility” mode when you’re ready to push it more. Includes an assortment of extra rotor blades, transmitter, rechargeable battery, and a USB charger.
LEGO Minecraft The Village
All your blocky dreams have come true. In the mother of all cross-branding successes, LEGO brings you Minecraft biome sets. The village set lets you build your home defenses against undead attackers, plant crops, and explore the explosive-filled mines below the surface. Includes a Pig, Villager, and Zombie figures.
LEGO Ninjago Temple of Light
Sorry, one more LEGO kit. But, c’mon, ninjas! NINJAS RIDING GIANT SAMURAI MECHS. Kids these days.
The Eleventh Hour: A Curious Mystery
On the day of Horace the Elephant’s 11th birthday party, a crime is committed. The reader is faced with the formidable task of decoding complex messages and clues hidden throughout the beautiful illustrations of this book to find out which of the party goers is the culprit. Lots of fun for young detectives but with deep puzzles guaranteed to challenge even the most insightful adults. This book is a brilliant creative work.