Melissa and Doug Holiday Deals

**Special Amazon Toys GoldBox Daily Deals Leak** - Up to 50 Off Select Melissa and Doug Toys

(only valid Dec. 8, 2011)
If you are a fan of Melissa and Doug toys, you will find a host of educational gifts and ideas, ranging from pretend play sets, to puzzles, to math manipulatives, and more.  Amazon's holiday deals are in full swing, and you'll find a variety of deals through the season, including the Melissa and Doug sale linked above.

LeapPad Explorer Inventory: Where to Buy LeapPad Explorer Online

If you are hunting for the popular LeapPad Explorer Tablet this holiday season, you may be a little frustrated with inventory shortages...our WalMart displayed prominently on Black Friday that it would not have any in stock, due to inventory issues beyond control. Following are some leads, though as the season proceeds, inventories will no doubt continue to dwindle.

Sears: Green LeapPad Explorer or Pink LeapPad Explorer

KMart:  LeapPad Explorer

Target

As well, LeapPad Explorer is available through many third party sellers on Amazon. Be aware that the prices may be significantly elevated, compared to list price, due to the popularity of the device. If you are considering an alternative to the Leapfrog Tablet, there are still supplies of the VTech Innotab, but again, the third party sellers may have elevated prices. Some sources include those same venues linked above. Additionally, Best Buy carries the Innotab, though is out of stock on LeapPad.

Another alternative to the LeapFrog Tablet, especially with upper elementary aged children, is the Kindle Fire, or the Barnes and Noble Nook Color.  Both retail at $199, and though not specifically targeted at children, have apps, ereading materials, and digital media available.  While the cost is significantly higher than the list prices of the electronic learning systems, the older child will be able to continue using one of these tablets on into tween and teen years.

My Twinn Black Friday Sale

Black Friday Sale Only! FREE SHIPPING on orders of $100 or more. Up to $70 in FREE GOODS!

If you are hunting for a look alike doll for your daughter this holiday season, then check out the Black Friday sale linked here, with up to $70 in freebies. 

Pretend play is important developmentally, and many children really love look alike dolls.  My Twinn allows you to create a doll for your child with similar features, hairstyle...even freckles!  There are many ways to customize your daughter's twinn!

Puzzle Books for Tweens and Teens

Tweens and teens can benefit greatly from puzzle books as gifts, especially during the busy holiday season, or for a long, lazy summer. There are, of course, many puzzle books to choose from at all age levels, but there are many targeted at special interests, and older puzzle solvers, as in the example pictured above. Educationally, puzzle books can provide opportunity to refine vocabulary or math skills. There are extreme challenges available, whether in dot to dot format, sudoku, kakuro, or in crosswords.  For an ongoing supply, consider a subscription to your tween's favorite puzzles in magazine form, or to variety magazines.

Gift Ideas for Artistic Tweens and Teens

Dot to Dot Super Challenges for Tweens and Teens

If you have an artistic tween or teen, and need a great idea for a simple Christmas gift, these Dot to Dots are not your typical dot to dot puzzle activities. While the dot to dot is a great medium for young children in terms of learning number order, the series pictured above involves intricate dot to dot activities with dots numbering into the thousands, with amazing pictures. There is an entire series of these dot to dots for tweens and teens, challenges, all receiving rave reviews.

Travel Size Dot to Dot Challenges

Wooden Toy Kitchen Sets

Wooden Toy Kitchen Sets Promote Pretend Play

My oldest child is a wonderful baker, and her earliest kitchen experiences were as simple as waving a wooden spoon, from her walker, while Mom created gingerbread house pieces at Christmas time.  Through the years, she enjoyed both real, and pretend kitchen play, and it goes without saying that her toy kitchen set was a favorite pretend play thing.

A charming blue, wooden toy kitchen set...
Image links to details and availability.

Pretend play is very much an educational endeavor, as it allows children to repeat what they've seen, though in pretend fashion.  It allows them the opportunity to invent their own stories, ideas, and scenarios.  It allows for informal use of verbal and mathematical skills, in a tactile environment.  Sometimes, I think that formal schooling has abandoned too quickly the value of make believe.

KidKraft Wooden Toy Kitchen Set in Pink

Wooden toy kitchen sets have a wonderful charm about them, in that they are constructed of simple materials, can be created in a rainbow of colors, and can sufficiently provide a venue for imaginative play that will inspire.

Add caption

Costs for woodent toy kitchen sets can range from the $60 area, and up, and can be very simple, or quite elaborate.  Your household space may dictate how elaborate the toy kitchens sets are that you will consider, or your budget may do so.  Most big box retailers will host a given set, often plastic, during a holiday season, but I rarely see the charming wooden kitchen toys in my stores.  There are, however, plenty of online options, from many companies...check out the newest releases in Kitchen Play Sets at Amazon..

Toy Building Sets for Kids

Star Wars Toy Building Sets

Toy Building Sets: What are the choices?

One of the most popular toy themes for boys is building sets, especially when it comes to Lego brick building toys, K'Nex, and building blocks. These toy building sets are favorites, not just for boys, but often for girls, as well.

Toy Building Sets in Colors that Girls will Love

While these toys don't overtly seem to be educational, they do, in fact, provide a great deal of tactile interaction that allows children to develop spatial understanding, and mathematical relationships, as well. The kinesthetic, or tactile, modality is one of the least addressed in the traditional classroom, though in mathematics and sciences, the use of models and manipulatives is not only helpful in establishing concepts in geometry, but also in developing number sense and numerical concepts.

Many toy building sets provide math manipulative qualities in an informal, explorational setting. The good news is that as a parent, you don't need to do formal instruction. Your child's enjoyment of these toys makes it a fun way to make connections. That isn't to say that there's no need for formal teaching, but that the teaching can make even more sense when a child has something to relate those abstract concepts to.



Toy Building Set Tubs Provide Ample Explorational Play

Lego brick sets are great for concepts of addtition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. K'Nex sets lend themselves particularly well to understanding geometric relationships, in both two and three dimensional models. Angles and shapes come into play easily with the snap together building pieces. Advanced learning sets incorporate physics concepts, with amusement park sets, bridge sets, and educational toy building sets created especially for the instructional environment.



Duplo Building Sets Are Suited to Manual Skills of Younger Children

For younger children, a basic set of building pieces is a perfect introduction. The Lego company has Duplo blocks, which are bigger and easier to manage, for smaller hands, while K'Nex has a larger sized Kid K'Nex series. For 5-6 year olds, a building tub of Lego's or K'Nex building pieces provides a good selection for easy play and exploration.



K'Nex Building Sets Provide Explorational Activity Based in Geometry

There are also simple themed sets from both companies, aimed at younger ages, with more complicated designs and plans for older children. Kids seem to have a timeless affection for these popular building toys, and sets can easily merge for expanded building creativity.

You can find the top rated toy building sets at Amazon, along with customer recommendations, and many varied toy building sets not found on the aisles of your big box retailer.

Touchscreen Tablets for Kids: Kindle Fire

Kindle Fire
Tablet Interactivity with Great Educational Potential for Kids

Amazon has introduced a new series of Kindle ereaders.  In particular, the Kindle Fire is interesting as a possible gift choice for kids, due to its pricing, $199.  Price, alone, doesn't qualify a tech gadget as a great value, but based on preliminary information, Kindle Fire has some interesting features that provide a multimedia touch tablet experience:  streaming video and music, web browsing, ereading, and popular apps.  In conjunction with Amazon Cloud storage, digital content isn't stored on the device, but in the "Cloud".  Amazon content is stored free of charge, and other content can be stored, at a fee.

For kids, this is an affordable alternative to the popular iPad.  As a parent, you will want to oversee the content that your child accesses, and take the same precautions you would in any use of online technology, to assure your child's security and safety.  For me, this would mean using the device more as a family tool, and working together to monitor the content and web browsing. 

I am excited about the device for its use in educational purposes, though, as ereading looks to be a rich experience, and children's books in full color will be incorporated into the ereading experience, along with full color magazines.  I love having access to National Geographic for my kids, for example, but get overwhelmed with storing the old issues.

Kindle Fire is available for pre-order now, with its release due on Nov. 15.

Ereader Gifts for Kids

Upper elementary aged kids are very capable, when it comes to navigating many of the popular digital devices available.  However, at this stage, a parent may be reluctant to spend high amounts of money on tech gadgets, and with good reason. 

Moving into the tween stage, kids can become very scattered, forgetful, and awkward.  I've dealt with a few tech casualties with kids who are in the 10 and up age group.  On the other hand, some of the kid-tough electronic learning toys are just a bit too juvenile for these older kids.  While ereader toys for kids are more likely to withstand the rough handling, the content is just a bit immature for the upper elementary age level.

Ereaders can be good choices for this level, with some very inexpensive models available.  Not a replacement for the tablet computer craze, nevertheless, the devices are something other than a video game, and provide a means of augmenting your child's academic progress.

Kindle With Special Offers

Many of the same issues with selecting an ereader for a tween come into play for the upper elementary aged child.  Kindle, Amazon's ereader, provides a cost effective model (Kindle with Special Offers, Wi-Fi version $114), which includes web browsing, library lending, and games.  The only downside is the lack of touchscreen interactivity, though there are rumors of a coming tablet version. 

Barnes and Noble's Nook Touch is another inexpensive choice, retailing at $139.  The device is touchscreen operated, but is strictly an ereading device.  There are not apps, nor web browsing capabilities at this point.  The $249 Nook Color functions as more of a tablet, with color display, apps, and web browsing.

Science Experiment Kits for Kids

If you have an inquisitive child (or grandchild, niece, or nephew), then you recognize that they take in a lot of interesting information, formulate ideas, and love to regurgitate their interpretations...or spit out random facts at odd times!  That inquisitive child has a zillion questions to ask, and while that may challenge our patience, it's the stuff that leads to a future of dreamers and inventors!  I wonder what life was like in the Jobs and Gates homes. 

Science experiments kits for kids can provide an exciting slate of activity for that curious one, and there are so many unique kits to choose from.  Even some of the most basic (and in some of our eyes, boring) science sets for children are apt to intrigue, at the right time. 

One year, my children received Smithsonian science kits from an uncle, for Christmas, and they had the best time with the building of a volcano, making of gummy bugs, and examining crystals growing. 

Mr. Rootbeer Kit:  The Science of Carbonation!
A fantastic experience, and study, for curious kids!

Another year, the kids received a Mr. Rootbeer kit, and we became fans of homemade root beer in the process.  The science is a blast, and everyone enjoyed the outcome!  Yum!

A Microscope Kit in a carrying case is a helpful choice,
providing a means of keeping a science set together, easily accessible,
and ready for the next use.

My tween daughter is constantly pulling out her microscope set, lately, as a botany study provides lots of interesting concepts to explore.  There are plenty of applications for this kit, and the opportunity to be curious, and to follow through on ideas, is a fantastic means of encouraging higher level thinking. 

Each kit is going to have its own slant and focus, and when selecting science sets, and experiment kits for children, you will need to consider a few things.  The child's interests can direct your choices, but at times, we may not be certain of these things, especially with nieces and nephews.  Age is an important element, as well.  Under the age of 10, most children will need a great deal of oversight and supervision, not to mention direction.  While the gift is intended for a child, the parent is going to be an important player in the process.  This doesn't mean it's not a good gift idea, but it does mean that you want to be conscious of this factor. 

When you get into the 10 to 12 age range, a child will have the ability to work more independently.  Some fun science kits at this level may pertain to the nature of the age group.  Tween girls may absolutely love a spa science kit.  Tween boys, on the other hand, will get a kick out of "Disgusting Science".  Both boys and girls are apt to enjoy food related science experiment kits for kids, such as Tasty Science.  There are a host of options, and user reviews can really assist you in decisions, many of which you will find with the products linked here, and in the kids' science kits available through Amazon.

Toy Vs. Tech: Toy Tech or Real Tech Gifts for Kids?

As a mom, I want my children's experiences with tech gifts to be productive, whether with a learning toy, or with a serious piece of tech equipment.  I also recognize that independent exploration can be just as valuable as programmed direction of a child's learning activities.  However, the younger the child, the more direction and supervision is necessary.  This is especially true with higher priced tech items such as computers, laptops and netbooks, but can also be a factor in working with tech toys designed for a younger age group.

In our house, we've come to a determination that under age ten, an expensive tech gadget isn't even a consideration as a personal gift, due to maturity issues.  Handheld video game systems, netbooks, iPods, and similar sought after items on a child's wish list are too expensive to easily replace, and the kids know, as well, that there is a coming of age sense of trust that will go along with such gifts.  They can dream, no doubt, but it's just good sense, from our perspective, to be wise in this sort of gift giving.

Child targeted electronic learning systems, and other tough child gadget gifts, however, if within reach in terms of cost, are equally acceptable as child gifts from about age 4.  My children, when in that under 4 age range, haven't really had the interest, nor the need, to spend time with such gadgets, and are much happier with age appropriate toys.  From age 4 to 7, electronic learning systems, such as Leapster, have held their attention well, and have been within their capacity to operate.  At ages 8-9, there may be a passing glance, but little targeted interest in these early learning electronic gifts.  Still, I'm not quite ready to put more expensive gadgets in the hands of my 8-9 year olds, and so I look for non-electronic alternatives in that time frame.  One consideration at that age might be a desktop computer, as it is non-portable, and stays anchored in one place, less prone to accidents and damage. 

For my sons in that age range, there are some interesting electronics, in terms of race cars, helicopters, and motorized building sets that seem to satisfy the tech interests, while for a daughter in that age group, I tend toward girl gifts like electronic diaries, or text messaging toys.  If I see a reasonable demonstration of maturity, I may give way a little bit on game consoles, or iPods, or ereaders.  Guidelines are great as a starting point, but need to be evaluated on an individual basis.  Watch that you don't create problems with a less responsible child, though, who wonders why they don't get equal treatment at a given age.  Have a solid response ready, and discuss the issues that cause you to hesitate in purchasing costly tech presents.

Every home will have different dynamics, every parent, an individual response.  When it comes to real tech items, verses tech toys, keep your own interests, as well as your child's, balanced with important factors that give credence to your decision.

Read about age ranges for tablet toy alternatives for kids.

Gifts for Young Readers: Personalized Story Books

If you are looking for a unique gift for a child, consider the I See Me personalized books!  There are many themes to choose from, whether it's a fairy story for a girl, or a pirate tale for a boy, or a congratulatory gift for a new big brother or sister. 

While some people may like the idea of creating their own personalized book via print on demand media, those who don't have time for creating from scratch, or don't feel confident in their creative abilities, can still provide a richly colorful book that highlights a child's name throughout.  Some spell out the name, letter by letter, over the course of many beautifully illustrated pages.  Others weave the child's name throughout.  You have the option of seeing a guided tour through sample "I See Me" books, to get an idea of the look of the story.

There are personalized children's books for varied occasions, as well as personalized floor puzzles.  This is a fun, and exciting gift for a youngster who loves book, or is learning to read. 

Magazine Subscriptions for Kids Make Fantastic Educational Gifts

As a grandparent, aunt, or uncle, you may be struggling with gift ideas for your young family members.  Sometimes, the toys on the market seem like such "twaddle" (mindless, unchallenging junk!), and you don't want to simply throw away your money, in order to satisfy an obligation.  It's much nicer when you know that your gift is meaningful, that it will be enjoyed and appreciated. 

My parents took the magazine subscription approach for a couple of years, and it was really a pleasant experience for the kids.  I don't know about you, but I love it when a new magazine arrives, and my kids equally enjoy the experience of thumbing through and looking at pictures, reading articles, and discussing their observations.  If you are looking for a great way to boost a particular interest, or to encourage reading skills, this could be just what you are looking for.

There are so many magazines available, that you shouldn't have any trouble finding something suitable.  My youngest daughter received High Five from Highlights for two years, while an older child received the actual Highlights Magazine.  My youngest son received Thomas and Friends.  Another son received Spider.  Dig, Muse, Ranger Rick, and National Geographic Kids have also been pleasing choices for the kids.  Older children received titles suited to their interests:  Polymer Clay, Cooking, Baking.  The activities, articles, and photos are great.  The kids have loved looking forward to that monthly arrival in the mail, and have dreaded that "final issue" notice. 

Back to School Supplies: Dry Erase Crayons

If you have a youngster who likes to color, but is constantly leaving drawings everywhere, you might really appreciate the new Dry Erase Crayons from Crayola.  Although you won't be able to save the brilliant art created in this medium, you can provide the artistic youngster with hours of drawing fun. 

A dry erase board is ideal for using these, and Crayola has a set of dry erase crayons and dry erase board, for a great price.  You can also find dry erase wall decals, which can allow you to make a convenient practice board in virtually any location in the house, perfect for working math problems, or practicing spelling words.

The crayon box includes a sharpener, and an erasing mitt.  Stubborn smudges come off easily, with a little water.  Sounds too good to be true, but I tried it out, and was very pleased!  These are topping my back to school list, for at home practice, but you may want to treat a favorite teacher to a set, too!

Netbook or Tablet? Why Not Both!

Inspiron Duo combines the best of both worlds, with the compact size that netbooks have made popular, and the touchscreen tablet features that are taking the world by storm.  Given the costs of tablet PCs, it's interesting to find the combined features of the Inspiron Duo are able to provide multiple means of interacting in the computing environment.  If you are looking for an educational tool for your tween or teen, this is worth a look.  You can read full specs and consumer reviews on the Amazon page related to the Inspiron Duo.  Read more about the decisions between laptops for kids and netbooks, here. 

Lego Calculators

If your kids love legos, then a lego calculator is a fun gift consideration.  While many parents consider calculators to be disallowed in the school setting, the reality is that most math curricula include appropriate calculator skills.  After all, what good is a tech tool that an individual doesn't know how to use correctly?  And a calculator doesn't guarantee a correct answer, which makes it a helpful tool in teaching number sense. 

You can find lego calculators for kids at the link provided at left, in blue, black, or green!

Back to School: Fun Binders for Girls

Back to school supply shopping may seem routine enough, but there are some fun binder designs available, that can contribute to your daughter's excitement about the approaching school year.  Colorful and cute can make for a great attitude, and getting off on the right foot can be the catalyst for a great year! 

Case It binders are great helps in the area of organization, and provide some fun color contrasts, as well.  After all, academics don't need to be dull, and neither do school supplies.  Roxy has put together some cute binders, as well, and this popular brand is well received in the tween and teen world.

Dakine has a rather colorful binder selection...details available through the image, below, at Amazon.

Dakine Colorful School Binder

Case It Binder for Girls

Roxy Binder for Girls
Cute Pinks

Outside Playground Equipment

Lifetime Geometric Dome Climber
***Links are clickable, for Amazon pricing and details.

While outdoor playground equipment may seem more of a physical item, than educational, the fact is that an outdoor playground set can be the source of a great deal of pretend play, and imagination takes wings in such an environment.  Children can become their favorite superheroes, re-enact their favorite fairy tales, and re-tell their beloved stories.

Commercial outside playground equipment can be pricey, but there are many worthwhile swing sets and activity sets to consider.  Individual pieces can be less harsh on the wallet, yet provide hours of entertainment and inspiration.

Gym Dandy Teeter Totter

Lifetime Ace Flyer Airplane Teeter Totter

Dizzy Quad Merry-Go-Round

Wooden Outdoor Playground Equipment

Champion XP Outdoor Playset

Step2 Naturally Playful Adventure Lodge Play Center

Gorilla Outdoor Playground Set
Big Skye II

Little Tikes 8-in-1 Adjustable Playground

Lifetime Big Stuff Adventure
Outside Playground Equipment

Gorilla Playsets
Outside Playground Equipment