PixOs

Creating a PixOs mosaic may require more concentration and precision than your grandchildren's other activity sets, but the end result is special enough to make it worth their time. Using a special "pen," kids dispense tiny colored beads onto the set's different templates, and create multihued images of owls, spaceships, lollipops and other kid-centric icons. Once all the beads are in place, the artist spritzes the palette with water (a spray bottle is included), and displays it when it's dry. Pixos are perfect for kids 5 and older — one parent reported that the activity was somewhat stressful when a toddler sibling was around, what with all those tiny beads rolling around on the table. Make sure only elementary-age kids play with this one. They enjoy it the most, anyway.

Age: 4+
Retail Price: $11.79
Available at: amazon.com

Paperoni

This activity set makes you wonder if the inventors came up with the name first, and just winged it from there. Though we've received mixed reviews of Paperoni from our tester families, those who liked it really enjoyed the novelty of using tightly wound paper rods as the medium. Kids cut the paper to the desired size, glue the pieces onto a 3-D template, and make interesting sculptures of mice, lions, chicks, and other critters. Of course it's not a thrill-a-minute crafting set, but definitely engaging for some low-key creative time.

Age: 4+
Retail Price: $29.99
Available at: amazon.com

Jacquard Hoop Painting Kit

The hoops in this activity set are stretched silk canvases on which your grandchildren dapple color, creating a blended effect similar to tie-dye. The Jacquard Hoop Painting Fun Bag also includes a packet of salt that painters sprinkle onto wet dye for a "sunburst" look. Our tester-family had a good time with this quick and simple activity set, and recommends it for tweens who can appreciate the color-blending. Little kids might not be as precise in their application, and thus miss out on the fun.

Age: 8+
Retail Price: $13.34
Available at: dickblick.com