EDUCATION

It seems as though every year there are more must-have toys, even in times of economic hardship. But there are plenty of gifts out there that not only won’t break the bank, but will stimulate creativity and even help the environment. Here is your one-stop shop for gift ideas.2008 Gift GuideTake advantage of our comprehensive guide to off-the-beaten-track gifts that are fun, educational, and will provide great memories long after the plastic toys are back in the box.Top Ten Green ToysYes, we know it's the dead of winter, but take another look at an Earth Day article profiling ten environmentally-conscious toys and games. Green is never out of season!Homemade GiftsMaking gifts at home with your child for her friends, family and teachers is a fun, family-friendly and frugal holiday activity! Let our columnist, the Stingy Mommy, get you started.Recalled ToysStay safe this holiday season! A quick search through this directory will reassure you that your child's playtime is in good hands.VoicesToday's ColumnHoliday Helper: Keepsake Bookby Amy BrayfieldA homemade book is a great present, whether you use it as a gussied-up photo album, a collection of quotes or (as my daughter opted to do) a storybook for a younger sibling. They're charming and easy to make-- two qualities I'm always looking for in homemade gifts, especially with not a lot of time left before the ... Read MoreSee All Columns »More ColumnsI Can't!by Lisa MedoffYarn Doll Family Funby Shannon McMathStay Away from the Nog!by John PearsonEncourage Skywritingby Rae Pica Recent DiscussionsDyslexia"I have a daughter that just turned one. I was diagnosed with Dyslexia in my younger years. I just learned that it is Genetic and I am wondering or looking for advice on how early my daughter should ..."replies: 0By blm2979science project for slg dad and 8th grader"I need a project. my daughter is freaking out, "All the ideals are gone" she thinks so. It needs to be good, but EZ and not expensive. As long as it's science related we'll try it. Help a dad out. N..."replies: 5By jjb1Discipline in school"My daughter is a good student with good grades and she has been going to this school for six years and this is the first time we are having academic problems and I believe this started when the school..."replies: 0By PatchesDiscipline in school"My daughter is a good student with good grades and she has been going to this school for six years and this is the first time we are having academic problems and I believe this started when the school..."replies: 0By Patchesscience project for slg dad and 8th grader"I need a project. my daughter is freaking out, "All the ideals are gone" she thinks so. It needs to be good, but EZ and not expensive. As long as it's science related we'll try it. Help a dad out. N..."replies: 5By jjb1Dyslexia"I have a daughter that just turned one. I was diagnosed with Dyslexia in my younger years. 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But cant take the time off of it and tra..."replies: 4By Mom 2 3 Boysstate wide testing results"Can anyone help me find the state ranking for education? I am looking to compare Florida to New Mexico public elementary education. I also need to find out the difference between the state tests NMS..."replies: 1By mitch_0178Differentiation in first grade"How important is differentiation in first grade? or in elementary school? my 7 year old son is bright, wihtout a doubt...has been reading well with great comprehension since he was 4 1/2. He attends a..."replies: 3By threeboysTeacher blabbing grades for all to see"hi my 6th grade child has a teacher who passes out each test from highest to lowest. everyone then knows "who the brains and who the dummies are" my child who is an A student is very private and has..."replies: 1By juliegWhat are the two voices within a teacher? "I have to write a reflection piece about the two voices within a teacher. I am not sure what the two voices are. Can anyone help?"replies: 0By AliseKalieRemembering letters and numbers"Trying to help my 3 year old to remember his letters and numbers"replies: 2By Ieisha1See All DiscussionsStart a New Discussionwindow.addEvent('domready', function() {var rd = new slideInRecent({ delaytime: 15000, slideduration: 900 }); });Popular Parenting & Education TopicsSpecial Needs Kindergarten Readiness Great Science Fair Project Ideas Science Activities and Games School Involvement Middle School Activities Developmental Milestones Reading Games and Activities Math Games and Activities 5th Grade Activities Types of Schools Preschool Activities Arts and Crafts Activities 1st Grade Activities Parenting Kindergarten Activities Testing and Standards Intelligence and Learning Writing Activities Helping Your Child with Bullying