Items tagged “Tweens (7-12 years)”

LIVE IN UNITY, GIVE BACK, ACCEPT DIVERSITY, BE AWARE, TRUTH, FORGIVE: They’re noble thoughts, each and every one, and worthy to be written across the sky in letters. They’re just as meritorious doodled on a kid’s notebook, displayed as bumper stickers on the family car, or even selectively tattooed on the breast of the person who embraces the concepts and cares enough to wear one permanently over the heart! The good people at Good Work(s) Make a Difference choose to render them in more-versatile media: beautifully inscribed leather bracelets to grace the wrist of man, woman, or child.

Many American companies find that manufacturing in the U.S. helps them do a better job of maintaining quality control and reliable delivery. While big retailers can afford to keep buyers abroad or send executives across the Pacific to check on suppliers, this doesn’t make sense for smaller companies. Made in the U.S.A. brands provide goods buyers want, made to their precise specifications, and delivered on time. These brands are just a few good examples of American-made pride: Petites Frites, Noli, Noli, Funkie Baby, and Fleming Clothing.

Lots of toys children want are all about electronic games or gadgets. While these are certainly fun, there’s also an interest for playthings less stimulating. Even several dolls and action figures tend to be geared for a worldly child — the child who has one foot in the adult world. Even as children are attracted to these things, more parents are asking if these are really the kinds of toys their youngsters should be having. More importantly, they are looking for a kinder, gentler toy. The Happy Nappers are an answer for soft, nostalgic fun.

Children need to have innovative outlets, and they need to have their own work (and play) appreciated to build confidence. There’s no better way to do this than through crafts. Recent studies have shown that crafts help relieve stress –– something that everyone can appreciate. Clayzee by Aliquantum-International, Creations by You, Sandtastik, and the Chenille Kraft Company all provide pleasurable, safe crafting materials that delight the senses while allowing children’s personalized artwork to be shared with an appreciative audience.

Parents will always remember their little one’s first day of school: picking out a favorite outfit, taking lots of pictures, and waving as their child sets off on new experiences. Few parents know what’s going on in their child’s head as they face the rather intimidating first day. Even though a child may beg every day to ride the big yellow school bus, actually looking up at it can be a daunting prospect. Even more nerve-wracking is going to a big building with new people, teachers, and authority figures. Butterflies in My Stomach and Other School Hazards by Serge Bloch helps to ease the fears of elementary school attendees.