The Little Experience. We’re keen on the crafty kits from this British company. There are more than a dozen easy and fun projects to choose from. Our fave is the Create-it Bouncy Ball Kit — what kid (or grown-up) wouldn’t get a kick out of making their own ball?
Kits start at just $6 at amazon.com.

Ticche & Bea Design-a-Doll Kit.
Let your daughter turn her imaginary friend into reality (and learn basic sewing skills) with this all-inclusive doll kit. Choose the doll’s hairdo, its facial features, and learn how to make an a-line dress and a pair of pants. The kit comes with an 80-minute DVD, showing exactly how to create the doll, step by step.
$60 at ticcheandbea.com.

Kidsonroof House.
We’ve oft complained about cartoon characters cluttering up so many kids things, but this Dutch company got the whole playhouse thing just right. Truly a blank slate — this one is made from white cardboard that folds into a good-size play house. Your kids can decorate it themselves and play in it for hours. When playtime is over it folds flat for out-of-the-way storage.
$46 at hipfromholland.com.

Play-Dough.
An undeniable classic, this non-toxic clay was first introduced to kids in 1956. Get your hands dirty with your little ones and this dough that is practically an American tradition. $7 at amazon.com.

Bella Tunno Smock.
Naturally when kids get creative, things get messy. Keep clothes clean with this over-sized bib. Handmade with laminated fabric, these smocks are machine washable. Choose from 10 fun styles for $30 at bellatunno.com.