Naturally Powered Toys

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Naturally Powered Toys

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Whitewings

The best paper and balsa gliders on the market. Fun to build, exciting to fly and a good introduction to the principles of flight. Powered by a rubber band "launcher", these little gliders are big on performance.
There are Whitewings clubs in several countries, where members show their models, share information and, of course, compete. Flight times of over 10 minutes have been recorded!
A great parent/child project, Whitewing gliders are available in single model kits, 3 model kits, 6, 8, and 15 model kits. There's even a Competition kit.
Caution: Launch your glider in a large field, because they really fly!

Sources: Your local craft store,
or online at...
A .G.Industries
Lee Valley
Elements of Nature
Rudy's Toys
Zooscape

Wooden Push Toys

Child's play is active learning. Before we overwhelm our little ones with the latest and greatest plastic and silicon wonders, let them get their hands on natural material, and learn to appreciate the look, feel, simplicity and reliability of basic wooden toys.
Look for toys made from local hardwoods, with non-toxic natural finishes.

Sources: Wooden push toys, patterns and kits for making your own.

Eartheasy - our own selection
Sanders Handcrafted Toys
Educational Concepts

EZ to Love
Sue's Wooden Toys
The Wooden Wagon

Kites

Kites are a fun, safe, low impact outdoor activity. There's also learning which accompanies the fun -- construction, aerodynamics and the behavior of wind. Kite flying can be enjoyed alone, with friends or as a parent/child activity. Age and gender are irrelevant, and the low cost makes the sport accessible to all.
Kites vary considerably in design and construction, from very simple to very complex. There are some basic requirements, however, which you should look for in any model of kite:

• Long line - estimate twice what you think you'll need.

• Strong line - the forces build as the kite climbs. Don't scrimp on the line.

• Size - small kites are easier to transport and launch. They're also easier to make and less expensive to buy. If the kite breaks free or gets hung up, the loss is less painful.

• Design - simple designs are easier to repair.

• Bright colors - a climbing kite gets small in a hurry - you want to be able to see it!

• Reel - a larger reel pays out and rewinds the line faster and easier. Get a good reel - you'll still have it even if the kite breaks free or gets hung up

Sources: Kites online

Eartheasy
Gomberg Kites
Colors on the Wind
The Virtual Kite Zoo

Devotion to Motion
Kite Life
Gone with the Wind
Breeze Chasers

eartheasy

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