Free Printable Epiphany Party Crafts and Games

Epiphany celebrates the Twelfth Night after Christmas. On Epiphany, or Three Kings' Day, January 6, the Magi or Wisemen visited the Holy Family in Bethlehem. Here are free printable Epiphany games and crafts to celebrate Three Kings Day. Epiphany is the gift-giving holiday in many countries. Many cultures and traditions have parties to celebrate the coming of the Wisemen to visit and honor baby Jesus. Print and enjoy these holiday crafts for Epiphany.  Free Printable Epiphany and Three Kings Day Party Crafts and Game Activities

Best Childrens Charities for Holiday Toy Drives Operation Christmas Child

Back to School sales are a great time to stock up on stocking stuffers for Christmas. They're a great place to find cheap gifts for holiday toy donations. Looking for a good children's charity to give to this holiday season? Try Operation Christmas Child from Samaritans Purse. This group collects Christmas shoeboxes with gifts for needy kids around the world. To participate, fill shoeboxes with toys, school supplies, articles of clothing, personal care products, candy, books. The website lists suggestions and what to avoid (breakables, liquids, war toys). Print a shipping label from website and indicate age and gender the box is for. Include $7 donation for shipping (a pretty fair deal considering weight and goods shipped). Boxes are due Nov. 18-25 and drop-off locations listed on the website.  This makes a great lesson in building empathy. I forgot to add that little portable car games make great box stuffers. Best Childrens Charities for Holiday Toy Drives Operation Christmas Child

Free Printable Father's Day Greeting Cards and Craft Activities

When Father's Day rolls around, it's sometimes hard to know what to get dad. Children may find themselves with little cash to buy something. Here are free printable Father's Day crafts and greeting cards that you can make at home. Dad will love your creativity and thoughtfulness. Sprout is a children's website based on the hit television shows from PBS. There are free printable Father's Day cards from Chica, Caillou and Fireman Sam. There are free printable sports, music and fishing Father's Day cards, too. Just click the "Card Creator" link to design your own personalized Father's Day message.   Free Printable Father's Day Greeting Cards and Craft Activities

Choosing Best Kids' Toys and Christmas Presents

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is buying gifts for kids. I love choosing toys, but I'm very picky. I demand that toy gifts I buy have some intrinsic educational value. And there are a lot of junk toys on the market. How do you wade through the chaff to find the best gifts for kids? Focus on interactive, active and hands-on. Avoid anything with a screen and battery! Here's the complete guide from a 25-year veteran teacher and 24-year mom of four.  Read more