Designed to appeal to boys, Paracord Wristbands involve macramé-type weaving with thick parachute cord. It comes with eight colors, buckles, stickers, scissors, glue, and clear instructions. There are enough supplies to make eight wristbands. Marked for 7 & up, but we think most boys of seven will not have the dexterity to do this. We'd say it's a better choice for 8-9's.

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2013.

All the makings for six sparkly necklaces. Kids construct the layers of the butterflies with adhesives to make  3-D charms that hang on the premade necklace cords. There's enough in this kit for a small birthday party craft activity that can go home as a party favor. Just right for 7's and up with a little help from adults. A nice choice for a princess or hello, spring party. Also a good choice for a play date or two. 7 & up.

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2013.

Enough supplies for making over 200 paper beads! A splendid kit for learning the technique for making big and little paper beads with colorful patterned, solid colored papers. The kit includes two tools for making the beads, gel cord, paper flowers, seed beads, sequins, varnish, paint brush and stencils for making more bead papers. 7 & up.

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Often the directions determine if a kit works well or not. In this case kids get clear step-by-step instructions for making colorful bracelets, necklaces, key chains, headband, and even a belt! The kit comes with a 200+ feet of cord, a generous supply, as well as colorful beads, hooks, key ring, plus glue and scissors. Great choice for play dates or solo craft time. This is one of those perennial crafts that develops fine motor skills and rewards patience with finished products that kids can use. Marked 7 & up, but we'd say it's a better bet for slightly older kids with more dexterity.

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2013.

Our tester liked everything about this kit with 12 adjustable rings and tons of flowers and butterflies that easily stick to them. The precut forms are attached with layers of foam squares and topped with a glue on the "gemstone" that is like icing on the cake. With a dozen rings, this makes a good kit for a play date. This kit calls for fine motor skills to handle the tiny foam adhesive squares. Of course, there are enough rings for every finger on both hands with two left over for toes! Marked 7 & up, but 7's will likely need help with the first few.

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2012. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.