Bargainist Gift Guide: Kids Out of School

Homework may be on a summer hiatus but that doesn’t mean learning has to halt. There are lots of great toys and games that disguise lessons with a whole lot of fun. Kick off summer with a great educational gift.

Solar Remote Control Car - What kid doesn’t love racing remote control cars? The Turbo 3000 Remote Control monster vehicle features oversized tires and three modes of propulsion: direct motor drive, air propulsion and solar power. It sells for $29.95 at BrainWavesToys.com. Kids will be able to run this remote control car through a series of experiments to learn lessons about electricity and solar power.

Brain Food - Brain Food isn’t something you actually eat, but it will fill your mind with creative thoughts. It’s elastic, vibrant putty that stretches the imagination. Head to FatBrainToys.com to pick up this cool award-winning toy for about $10 and you’ll also find tips for using Brain Food as an educational tool.

Art Kit - Macaroni picture frames? No way! Check out the wide assortment of art kits from GrowingTreeToys.com. Kids can make tissue art or pop-up books with these imaginative DIY kits. Prices start at $10.95 but your little one’s creations will be priceless.

USA Puzzle - Kids will study United States geography with the help of the USA Map Puzzle from Melissa & Doug. It’s just $14.99 and on the back of the puzzle kids will find additional state facts to help them learn even more.

Monkey Puppet Kit - Everything you need to make five assorted monkey puppets comes in this fun Monkey Puppet Kit from Paper-source.com. It’s $15.95 and will help keep kids entertained while they develop a play, create characters and put on a summer show that the whole family can enjoy.

By Alison Storm

LeapFrog coupon - Save 15% sitewide, plus get free shipping, with coupon code 15OFFLF through 06/12/2011.

Toys R Us sale - Hit up the Clearance Blowout Sale for savings of up to 70% on great toys, games, and more. Ends 06/11/2011.