Look for the right balance

If a kit is too easy, interest fades quickly. If it is too hard, children ask for help too often and the joy drops.

Good activity kits usually include

• One clear starting point
• Open-ended ways to continue
• Safe, durable materials
• A fun visual theme

Watch how children respond

The best clue is attention. If a child keeps returning to the activity without being pushed, the fit is usually right.