Kids' stuff

Got kids that like to build? Like to recycle? That's our house - and I just found what might be the next best addition to our toy box: makedo. Makedo is a set of connectors that lets you join together cardboard, paper, plastic, fabric, what have you, to make larger, movable structures. Kids get to imagine something and build it - limited only by their imaginations and the packing material, egg cartons, cereal boxes and fraying pillow cases on hand!

The system includes connectors and hinges, as well as a construction tool that lets them safely punch holes and make cuts in boxes and other paper materials. The great thing about makedo is, rather than knocking together playhouses, puppet theatres, and robots with cardboard boxes, tape and glue, now we can take them apart and reuse the components to make space ships, pirate lairs and laser blasters. REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE!

It's designed for use by children 5 and up and isn't safe for the under-3 set due to the small parts.

The sets come as kits for one (69 pieces) for $25, and kits for three (170) for $50. You also get reduced prices for ordering multiple kits. Right now, shipping is free but makedo is distributed from Australia, so there may be shipping delays and additional customs or tax charges upon delivery.

Take a look at the inspirational makedo creations of others here.