Childhood is a magical time. In the wonderful imagination of children anything is truly possible. Long before any given child can even read or write, they can create… ideas, words, fun!

We don’t know a single mom who doesn’t want to encourage her child’s creativity, but many of us do feel limited by our own. So we’ve gathered up these great products dedicated to helping your child explore, create and enjoy life.

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.

– Bettijo B. Hirschi