Featuring Practical Feeder Kits & Projects For Kids of All Ages


		stretchy stuff, puzzles & brain teasers, outside, wind-up action, kits & projects puppets, too fun, dino-land, rocks & minerals, explore-more
		Kids (of all ages) have fun learning about nature at J.J.'s! Be sure to check out the calendar of events & programs - our activities are certain to delight and expand young minds of all ages. Stay active and join the fun Mother Nature has in store for us!
stretchy stuff
Gumby! The ultimate toy; forever cheerful, perky & quite the jokester. Proudly stands 6” tall, made of flexible green rubber. Gumby can sit, stand, hang on, twist, and bend. He'll listen to all your stories without interrupting. (He is) one amazing guy! Item# 4511. $5.95 Not familiar with Gumby? Check out the vintage Gumby TV clip from the '60's on YouTube ��		Pokey Standing 4�” tall (when standing on 4 legs). Taller when posed dancing a waltz with Gumby. Pokey is a bendable orange rubber wonder - handsome and proud, and very stable. (A staple for every toy stable?) Item# 4512 $5.95
Mr. Bill - Ohh Nooo!!! For ages thirty-five and up. (The packaging says 3 and up, but what 3-year old would know who Mr. Bill is?) Bendable, and poseable. What does Mr. Bill have to do with a “nature store?” Absolutely nothing, but we just had to have him just the same; after having spent the last 30+ years in the freezer, his friend, Ms. Sally released him! 5�” tall x 5�” wide. $8.95		Want to see more? Visit www.mrbill.com Links to fun Mr. Bill Video Clips & Public Service Announcements Mr. Bill Presents: New Orleans - The Natural History Mr. Bill Meets Shelly the Starfish Mr. Bill Meets Rocky the Raccoon and much more from Walter Williams.... See Mr. Bill in action in Chicagoland! 1 2 3 4 5
Original Metal Slinky� The “original” Classic 1945 Slinky� Special Collectors Edition - Everyone loves a Slinky! Slinky� is still made in the USA. This original spring toy is famous with children all over the world. It stretches, snaps back, and makes a "slinkity sound." Dimension: (H) 2-�" x (W) 2-7/8". Color: black. Ages 5 years and up. Manufacturer's warning: Choking Hazard - Small parts. Not for children under 3 years of age. Made in USA. $7.95		One of the greatest toys ever: the Slinky� debuted at Gimbel's Department Store in Philadelphia, PA in 1945. The Slinky� was invented by a naval engineer, Richard James, who was conducting an experiment with tension springs. During the experiment, one of the springs fell to the floor and began to "walk." James and his wife, Betty, had a vision for a toy...hundreds of millions of the famed Slinkey� Toys have been sold since it's debut at Gimbel's. (Chrome version out of stock - presently we have just the black "vintage Slinky".)
Hall of Fame Toy Pack Timeless Toy Treasure Includes: Duncan Butterfly Yo-Yo, Silly Putty with Egg, Original Slinky, and Crayola’s original eight-pack of School Crayons. Made in the USA. Four all-time favorite, vintage toys in one handy package. Perfect gift for Uncle Fred or Aunt Betty, or any lucky kid age 5 and up. $17.95 (just one left - don't dawdle)		Watch a vintage Slinky� TV commercial (link to Slinky� website)
more vintage toys: on this page � [see "too fun"] top
puzzles & brain teasers
Jacob’s Ladder an original American handmade toy by Channel Craft...still made right here in the USA. Includes history* of the ladder, illusions, animal shapes to create, and a magic trick! Solid wood, 6�” x 2” x �”, $7.95 * short historical version: The Jacob's Ladder is one of the most ancient and famous of folk toys. Legend has it that one was found in King Tut's tomb, which means these fascinating toys were played with in Egypt before 1352 B.C., when the young king died (at about 18 years of age).		3-D Mirascope instant illusion maker. Create a 3-D hologram image. You won't believe your eyes...it looks completely real. But you can't touch it! New size: now 9" diameter. $15.95
Birds of North America Memory Card Game This 100-piece memory card game is a great learning tool for ages 3 through adult. Knowing how to identify birds by sight is key to becoming familiar with different species. $12.95		Easy-To-Do Window Mosaic Art Select from 3 nature designs: butterfly, sunflower, dolphin. Mosaic making has never been so easy. No glue is needed and it is not sticky either. The innovative Sticky-it-Easy™ mosaic pieces will stay on most shiny surfaces like magic. Simply follow the design template provided and make a colorful mosaic picture to hang in your window. Let the sun shine through and turn your window into a world of vibrant colors. Contains over 800 pcs plastic color mosaic 'tiles', 1 design template, transparent board, suction cups & detailed instructions. Completed picture is about 10�" x 11". $11.95
3-D Slide Puzzle by DaMert The smooth gliding pieces are contained within a four inch tray. Challenging enough to entertain for hours, they are the “Perfect Travel Puzzle”. Colorfully packaged with informative facts inside. Ages 5 and up. Select from Earth, Frog, Gecko, Celestial, Toucan, Dragonfly. Penguin, Fish, Sunflower. $3.95
Six-sided Puzzle Buglacious puzzling fun! Sixteen, 6-sided cube pieces make for six puzzles in one. Amusing, and educational bug lifecycle illustrations are printed on the inside for lasting durability. Features clear plastic cubes, bright fun illustrations, and neat information. $15.95		Gyro-Ring It's a practice in kinetics. Teaches hand-eye coordination. How does it work? The Gyro-Ring is like having five little tops of an unusual design strung on a smooth metal ring, and the rotation of the axis causes the ring to press on one side of the hole in the spinning top. Confused yet? Just get one, and enjoy the challenge. Age seven and up, $8.95
top		Pocket Tornado Create your own wild tornado! $5.95
outside fun
6 Way Weather Meter measure weather by yourself! 1. rain gauge, 2. wind direction; 3. wind speed; 4. wind chill chart; 5. total rain; 6. temperature. Stands 6.5" tall. Model #283. $6.95		Jetfire Gliders -Twin Pack The original Guillow’s Balsa Wood Planes from more than half a century ago. Contains two high performance balsa wood stunt planes with 12” wing spans. Soars up to 25 feet! Great for perfecting hand/eye coordination. $4.95 enlarged views: 1 \| 2
Secret Sounds Ultrasonic listener Ages 7 and up - Hear all the noises around us that humans can’t hear. Includes: listening device, bat sound emitter, and earphones. $32.00		Wooden 'better quality" Children's Butterfly Net We suggest...after observing your butterfly and insect friends, carefully release them to return to their natural habitat. Age eight and up, 10-inch diameter, $12.95
top
wind-up action & puppets
		Folkmanis - The world-famous, award-winning Folkmanis brand has been recognized by nearly every parenting publication as one of the best toys of the year, including Parents, Child, FamilyFun, Parenting, Nick Jr., and Baby Talk. The overwhelming reason: kids (and adults) love them and can’t put them down. Stop in to see out new collection of Folkmanis puppets. Made in USA since 1976.
Little Chick - Finger puppets by Folkmanis Just in time for Easter Baskets! #5544, $4.99 enlarged view		Jack Rabbit Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5545, $6.50
Opossum Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5549, $5.99		Dutch Rabbit Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5556, $6.50
Flying Piglets Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5554 Piglet with Wings, $5.50 enlarged view		Red-Legged Frog - finger puppet - 5" long, #2673. $8.
hand puppets "If you do not see the critter you are looking for, give us a call...we may have just what you are looking for." toll free: 1-866-818-6295		Other Folkmanis finger puppets in our collection include: chipmunks, porcupine, Gray squirrel, tortoise, monkey, zebra, monarch, barn owl, praying mantis, walrus, giraffe, brown mouse, skunk, fox, lion, flying pig, mini Dutch rabbit, brown rabbit, opossum.
Elephant hand puppet 20" long, flexing trunk action, workable mouth, #2534. $45.		Hatching Dragon - hand puppet - 8" Tall, workable mouth and arms, #2544. $33.
Camel - hand puppet - 18" long, workable mouth, #2532. $33.		Swan - hand puppet - 15" long, flexing neck action, workable wings, #2543. $34.
Harbor Seal - hand puppet - 19" tall workable mouth, #2537. $31.		Peacock - hand puppet 18" tall, workable tail, #2539. $45.
Penguin - hand puppet - 13" tall, animate his head and beak. #2177 (baby penguin separate). $27.		Flamingo - hand puppet - 22" Tall, flexing neck action, workable wings, #2536. $31.
Jack Rabbit - hand puppet 21" tall, workable mouth, movable head and arms, back opening, #2429. $31.		Donkey hand puppet 16" long, workable mouth, "kickable" back legs #2415. $33.
.top		Small Wooly Sheep - hand puppet 15" long, workable mouth, #2535. $19.
too fun
Frontier Logs A Timeless Toy - Contains 160 all wood interlocking pieces. Make your own frontier town! Children age three and up. Durable storage canister. $31.95 import alert: sadly these are no longer made in the USA		Fiddlestix Classic Wood Connectors with endless building possibilities. Made out of select hardwoods, and includes 144 pieces: connecting rods, and spools. Ideal for budding engineers and developing motor skills. Children age three and up; durable storage canister. $34.95 import alert: not made in the Greater USA
Metal Kazoo If you can hum ... you can play! $1.95 import alert: sadly, this item is not made in the Greater USA or anywhere near North America.		Lots of Marbles Whether you've lost your marbles (and seeking a replacement set) or starting a new collection, we can help! This jar is packed with approx. 80 marbles, and instructions on playing marbles. Age three and up; parental supervision essential - this small items represent a potential choking hazard. $6.95 import alert: not made in the Greater US of A
		Cat & Canary Flute by Toysmith Just breathe in mouthpiece in mouthpiece and move slide to call wild birds, play a tune, train canaries, and basically drive everyone around you crazy! Age 5+ Vintage toy from mid-1950's. Still just $3.95
Classic Toy Tin Series -- Nostalgic Toy Tins Featuring classic games from our childhood...favorite “Retro” toys just $9.95 each, and packaged in heavy-duty storage tin: 5” x 3-5/8” x 1-5/8” (attractive tins keeps all play pieces together - perfect for storing at Grandma's house). Proudly made in the USA.		Tiddly Winks in a Classic Toy Tin 36 Winks and 6 Shooters in 6 colors, 1 Scoring Platform & 20 page Handbook. $9.95
Dominoes in a Classic Toy Tin A full set of double six dominoes. $9.95		Marbles in a Classic Toy Tin 48 assorted Marbles, 2 Large Shooters & 20 page Handbook. $9.95
Skip Rope in a Classic Toy Tin 9 foot Skip Rope with wooden handles & 20 page Handbook with skipping rhymes. $9.95		Jumbo Jacks in a Classic Toy Tin 5 Brass and 5 Nickel Jacks, 2 Real Rubber Balls & 20 page Handbook. $9.95
did you see the other retro toys? This page is covered with 'em!		retro balsa wood gliders �� Mr. Bill & Slinkys & even Gumby � �
Authentic American Wooden Pick-up Sticks Contains: gaming instructions, 25 3/8” in diameter birch sticks, and handy canvas carrying pouch. $7.95
Maple Landmark Woodcraft of Vermont Quality wooden toys and projects constructed by dedicated craftspersons right here in the greater US of A. American Made to American Standards - While much is being made of the dangers of imported products, there are alternatives. Maple Landmark crafts a wide range of wooden toys, games, and gifts following American standards of product safety, employee safety, and environmental protection. The shortcuts of doing it any other way are not what Maple Landmark is about. These toys provide the best in hands-on learning and exploration. Surely it is becoming an electronic world but children still need to learn basic manipulation and construction.		Push 'n Pull Natural Toy Made by Maple Landmark Toys, in Middlebury, Vermont. Completely natural, 100% hard maple - no chemicals! Push 'n Pull Bunny toy. $19.00 Winner of the 2008 Preferred Choice Award from Creative Child Magazine.
Pull Alongs by Maple Landmark Woodcraft Pull toys feature wobble wheel construction so they bounce and tip as they roll along. Approx. 5” long. "Croak-a-long" Frog #73102 "Quack-a-long" Duck #73101 "Hop-a-long" Bunny #73104 $16.00
Mites Made by Maple Landmark Toys, in Middlebury, Vermont. Collect all 6 handsome little cars and trucks. 100% wood - finishes and paints are non-toxic and cars come "poly-bagged" (to ensure freshness....ha!). Each car is approx. 3 to 3�" long; ideal to tote anywhere or leave behind in Grandma' toy chest. Select from: sporty red jeep or blue fastback convertibles, yellow or green sedans, black panel truck, or the mighty red dump truck. Just $4 each.		Maple Tops by Maple Landmark Toys. Simple 1-3/8" diameter, available in red, blue or green. Amazing: trees are grown, harvested, transported as lumber, milled and turned, sanded, painted, packaged, and shipped to our store - where you can get 'em for the insanely low price of just $1.39 each. (Minimum web/charge card order: $5 + shipping)
Natural Unfinished Oval Bead Rattle The rattle is 2�" long and the oval ends measure 1�" X 2�". The beads float freely on the pegs for maximum sound and movement. Item #72151. $9.50		C-Blox Simple and Compact; you can’t put them down. Made in Vermont from unfinished rock maple and a non-toxic finish. A great manipulative toy for young and old. From simple stacking to creating modern art, they are fun at any level of development. For your little ones it is a great introduction to spatial concepts. Of course the real fun is stacking and knocking down. That is okay, we’ve all been there. Four blocks, plus tip sheet and pouch included. Item #73222. $15.00
Earth Yo-Yo You, too, can have the whole world in your hands with this yo-yo, by Maple Landmark Toys, in Middlebury, Vermont. $4.95		Folding Cribbage A product revival by Maple Landmark Toys. Folding Cribbage Boards are perfect for the gamer on the go! This board has a standard hole/street configuration. Crafted from cherry and lacquered for a long-lasting durable finish, this board has a peg storage pocket, 2 brass-look hinges and a latch; pegs included. This folding cribbage board measures about 3" wide by 5�" long and 1�" high when closed. $17.50
Basic Checkers Made in the USA by Maple Landmark Woodcraft. Lacquered laminated board 15" square. Hardwood checkers painted red and black - no design. Choking hazard for children under age three, $26.00.		Chinese Checkers A game for two to six players. Made in the USA by Maple Landmark Woodcraft. Solid cherry board 11�" diameter. Choking hazard for children under age three. Includes complete game instructions, $33.50
Shape-sorting Bench by Maple Landmark of Vermont Kids will have fun matching the blocks to the holes in our natural shape sorter bench. Twelve hard maple blocks come in four primary shapes. Circle, square, rectangle, and triangle. Each bench comes with a pouch for storage of the pieces Overall size is approximately 4" high x 4" wide X 6�" long. The bench is also crafted from hard maple with engraved details and labels of each of the different shapes. The bench and blocks comes unfinished. Item# 73031. $19.95		Made by Me Kit (with a little help from Maple Landmark Woodcraft) - Kit includes a vehicle body, four axles, and four wheels plus smokestack on the engine. The bodies are approx. 4” long. Kids can decorate with crayons, markers, paints, glitter, etc. (not included). #78250, $16.95 � enlarged view
Teach & Play Tiles - Animal & Vegetable by Maple Landmark of Vermont. These tiles are great for classification, grouping, sorting or matching. This set of 12 wooden cards measures 2�" wide by 3�" tall and are thin enough to be used as flash cards. Sets are printed with one theme on each side. $12.95		Made By Me! Bug ["bug"....as in VW, style automobile] This kit has a 4" long unfinished, sanded smooth pine bug-shaped body, and 4 natural wheels and axles. The assembly instructions are under the tag. All you need is some glue, a hammer, and paints, crayons, stickers or whatever you want to use to decorate with. Made in USA by Maple Landmark of Vermont. $4.95
Tic-Tac-Toe - The maple board is approximately 4�" square, with a clearcoat finish for protection and durability. Colorful pegs, die-cut squares, model #50105. $10.00 Learn Colors with Color Cube by Maple Landmark Woodcraft (right) - This is an easy take-along game for entertaining. There is more than one solution. #50240, 2-3/8” square. $8.50
Train Whistle by Maple Landmark Woodcraft All aboard! Get your train whistles here. Model #41297, great four-tone sound, 8�” long. $4.75		Tooth Fairy Box by Maple Landmark - 2�" Round wooden box with "Tooth Fairy" on top. Painted white and about 1" deep. Great place to keep that valuable tooth! Item #41010, $5.50
Lace-A-Shape - Made out of wood, making them very durable for years of enjoyment. Includes four shapes: monkey, fish, butterfly and bear (4 to 6 �” high) per set plus four 52” laces. Maple Landmark of Vermont, USA. $26.00		Natural ABC Simple Block Set Simple and clean ABC blocks. Using a kid-friendly font, these letters are burned into 1�" hardwood maple cubes. Ideal for children 12-months and older. 16 blocks to set. $22.95
Growth Sticks by Maple Landmark Woodcraft These growth gauges include two 24-inch scaled sections made from pine. The measurements are printed, and the finish is clear, making them easier to mark. Measurements go from 2 feet up to 6 feet. Available with dinosaur, #25225, or kitten, #25224 topper, $24.50 see more: Maple Landmark home decor gifts �		Knitting Doll wooden spool kit $5.95
Solar Powered Radiometer 5�" tall - glass - harness the power of light! Based on actual drawings from Sir William Crookes (US Patent No. 182,172 granted on Sept. 12, 1876 "Apparatus for indicating the intensity of radiation"). $13.95 [read more about Sir William Crookes' invention at Wikipedia: link]		Electric Bug It's out of control! Discover how a tiny spinning weight is used to make your own shaking bug. Created by specialists who teach teachers at Middlesex University, England. (Completed kit requires one AA battery, not included.) $15.95
Harrisville Designs was established in 1971 to preserve the textile heritage and economic vitality that had sustained the village of Harrisville, NH since 1794. Beginning with a line of high quality woolen handweaving, HD soon branched out into handweaving and equipment: "Friendly Loom Products" to introduce children to the joys of working with their hands.		pegLoom…weaving for beginners The pegLoom is a great and affordable way to discover the excitement of real weaving. Winner of the Teacher’s Choice Award, and the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal “Best Toy” Award. pegLoom includes everything needed for a complete woven project! Hardwood loom with rugged nylon pegs, cotton warp string, bright colored 100% pure wool yarns. Plastic needle for easy weaving Illustrated instructions; recommended for ages 5 to 95. dimensions: 7” x 10” - Item# 530. $19.95
Knot Your Scarf Kit A simple knotting technique you will learn in minutes. Kit makes one, 45-inch long looped scarf. Another fine craft project by Harrisville Designs. $~~11.95~~ (Temp. out of stock)		Potholder Loom Includes sturdy metal loom, 100% cotton loops, metal looping hook, and enough loops to make two potholders. Kids love to make potholders. Made by Harrisville Designs - right here in the USA. $14.95
Trash to Treasure Sweater Magic Kit Join in the fun with this kit that teaches recycling and how to make sweaters into something magical. Kit includes instruction booklet and patterns, yarn, fleece, and thread. Harrisville Designs. $14.95		Bag ‘O Cotton Loops Contains enough loops to make two colorful potholders, or may be used to make more knotted scarves. For use with the Knot Your Scarf Kit, and Potholder Looms (see above). 100% cotton. $5.95
Felted Hat Kit Harrisville Designs, USA, includes everything you need to make two beautiful and creative, crazily popular felted hats! $24.95		Lap Loom by Harrisville Design portable, handy - can be woven on while resting on a table, floor, or yes, your lap! Lap Loom includes: 12” x 16” hardwood loom, cotton warp string, 100% pure wool weft yarn, one tapestry needle, 2 wooden shed sticks, and complete illustrated instructions. Recommended for ages 7 to 97. Item# 376 $39.95
top
J.J.'s dino-land
Brachiosaurus - dinosaur excavation kit Dig thru and discover bones of one of the biggest dinosaurs that ever lived. Reassemble the pieces to construct a model skeleton over 28 cm long. $10.95 Also available: � Stegosaurus � Tyrannosaurus Rex � Triceratops		Golden Guide: Dinosaur - A classic guide for all ages. Paperback, 160 pages, full color illustrations. $6.95
Dinosaur DVD - Based on the revolutionary book series, Eyewitness video Dinosaur is the ultimate guide to the natural history of dinosaurs. Narrated by Martin Sheen: the man who SHOULD be our next President! For ages three and up. $12.99 See our "gifts page" for more Eyewitness DVD series �		Peterson First Guide: Dinosaur The concise field guide to more than 100 dinosaurs and the world they lived in. Paperback, 128 pages, full color illustrations. $5.95
top
rocks & minerals
		Start a rock collection, today! All rocks: $1.25 each (From right to left, top to bottom) top row - quartz point, tumbled jasper, fuchsite, rough rose quartz, pyrite (fools gold!); 2nd row from top: chalcopyrite (peacock rock), rough orange calcite, tumbled sodalite, hematite, amethyst cluster; middle row: chrysocolla, citrine, rubellite tourmaline, sandstone, orchid calcite; 4th row from top: banded agate, red tiger eye, tumbled adventurine, copal amber, jasper; bottom row: silicon, fluorite, amethyst point, blue kyanite, snowflake obsidian. Another great product from Mother Nature! Each piece varies in shape & size - how big are they? Think golf ball-size. Velvet pouch - ideal for holding your treasure - $1.50 (Minimum web/charge card order: $5 + shipping)
Break Your Own Geodes Ages 8 and up; adult supervision suggested for children under the age of 12 Find hidden crystals. Contains 10 geodes. $10.95 (Ut-oh....we're temporarily sold out)
Peterson’s Rocks and Minerals A handy pocket guide to more than 250 common gems, ores, and other rocks and minerals. Full color photographs, 128 pages, $5.95		Collector’s Box Heavy-duty clear plastic box with 17 compartments is perfect for rock collecting. Includes cards for each slot to write in name of specimen when collected. Length 10�" Width 7" Depth 1�". $6.95
Dig into Rocks A little beginners guide for collectors. All the rocks we offer are featured in this handy book. $1.25 (Minimum web/charge card order: $5 + shipping)		Audubon Society Guide to Rocks and Minerals Photographs organized visually by their subjects color with thumb tab index makes identification quick and easy. Twice as many descriptions and color plates as any other guide. 850 pages, $19.95
Simon and Schuster’s Guide to Rocks and Minerals Over 1,000 spectacular illustrations, 600 in full color, color photographs, practical and easy to use. Contains everything that the rock and mineral enthusiast needs to know. 607 pages, $17.00		Audubon Society Guide to Fossils Photographs organized visually by their subjects color with thumb tab index makes identification quick and easy. Twice as many descriptions and color plates as any other guide. 850 pages, $19.95
A Golden Guide to Rocks, Gems and Minerals Fully revised, and easy-to-use guide to the most common kinds of rocks and minerals with fascination information. 160 pages, $6.95		see Petoskey Stone Polishing Kit below � More books & reference �
top
explore-more...and dig dirt!
Kid’s Gloves (right) made of cotton duck, soft leather palms & knit cuffs: $4.95		Audubon Bird Call simple device ideal for attracting a variety of species. How does it work? Twist the birchwood roller on the zinc plug, and an audible "squeak" resonates. With reasonable care, and periodic re-application of rosin from the included capsule, the call will last a lifetime. $6.95 see also, other bird calls available at JJ Cardinal's �
		The Original Uncle Milton's Ant Farm In celebration of Uncle Milton's 50th Anniversary Includes: ant farm habitat, clean tunneling sand, ant watcher's manual, stock certificate to order ants. See the ants building bridges, digging subways, and moving mountains. Not recommended for children under three yrs of age. $18.95 note: ants mail-in fulfillment - allow 2 weeks
Gel Colony Illuminated Ant Farm by Uncle Milton Illuminated Ant Farm: Watch ants dig 3-D tunnels in nutrient-rich pre-filled gel. No feeding or watering needed. Break resistant, and escape proof! Illumination lights up the tunnels they dig. You never have to feed or water your ants, because the gel provides a continuous source of food and water. Watch the tiny architects as they sculpt their habitat into a natural work of art. 10" x 2�" x 9". Ages 6 and up; 2-AAA batteries required (not included). Coupon to receive live ants by mail (allow 2 weeks). $32.95 note: ants mail-in fulfillment - allow 2 weeks		Ant Habitat Universe by Toysmith Contains everything they need to survive in a space-age set up: food, tunneling medium, and housing. Kit includes directions and mail-in certificate for ants ($3.50 shipping and handling for ant-fulfillment). Escape proof habitat. $15.95 (+ the s/h for ants) note: ants mail-in fulfillment - allow 2 weeks
Large Sized Butterfly & Critter Habitat Features large 24" x 12" x 12" chamber, super-fine mesh screening for excellent ventilation and keeping out parasites, one side is clear vinyl for easy viewing of contents, and large all-around side zipper for easy access and cleaning. Folds into a compact little package when not in use. $16.95		Medium Sized Butterfly & Critter Habitat Features large 12" x 12" x 12" chamber, super-fine mesh screening for excellent ventilation and keeping out parasites, one side is clear vinyl for easy viewing of contents, and large all-around side zipper for easy access and cleaning. Folds into a compact little package when not in use. $12.95 (temp out of stock)
Small Clear-view Nature House 5�" tall, 5�" tall, 4�" wide, by Tweber They've taken everything children love about bug containers and put it all together into one awesome house. Features: screen side for ventilation & a clear side for close-up observation. Cricket-proof mesh keep tiny critters inside, easy-tote handle, swinging door for easy catch 'n release. #TWNH009 $14.95		Port-A-Bug from Insect Lore A safe haven for observing friendly insects. Observe butterflies, ladybugs, and other friendly critters in the airy mesh habitat, then let them go! It's lightweight and escape proof - convenient nylon carrying handle. Port-A-Bug compresses back into its tote-sack for storage. Great for show-and-tell, field trips, and insect excursions. Approx. 6" diameter x 12" tall. $9.95
Bug Bungalow a handy little observation chamber; wooden side, bottom & top, nylon mesh screen walls. Overall size: 3�" x 2-3/8" x 5�". Nylon carrying handle. $4.95 import alert: not made in the Greater USA		Bug Jar by Insect Lore - ideal for curious minds aged 4+ . Unique "air-flow" mesh lid - allows specimends to breath peacefully. Spacious bug chamber (5" x 4"). Handy carrying handle. Safe and shatter resistant. Item #2703T; $6.95
Insect Collection Kit - Museum-quality exhibit case with shatter-resistant removable front panel. Contains beginners professional quality insect identification guide, spreading instructions, spreading board, tweezers, professional mounting pins, collecting gear and reference materials. Includes TWO EXOTIC MOUNTED BUTTERFLY SPECIMENS! For ages six and up. 17" x 24" $54.95		Solar Print Kit Contains everything you need to make your own solar prints including sun-sensitive paper, blank note cards, stencils, frames, and complete instructions. $14.95
it's a mighty GoodPlanet™		The Bug Book & The Bug Bottle Catch. Observe. Be Amazed. The complete kit includes bug book and bottle, magnifier, bug identification chart, and My Bug Journal. Age five and up, $13.95
Raise Praying Mantis! Praying mantis are considered “beneficial” because they eat insects that often become garden pests: aphids, scale, spider mites, white flies, etc. Praying mantis egg pods contain 50 upward to 300 mantis eggs, which will hatch, spread and offer protection around your garden and yard. Complete instructions are included for the gardener and for those wishing to raise a mantis as a "pet". Typically available January through May; More info about JJ Cardinal's praying mantis and other "beneficial insects" (on our "garden page") � �
top
kits & projects
Green Science Windmill Generator You can help save the planet by recycling! (You'll need a large empty soda bottle to complete this project.) And then build this amazing wind generator and learn about renewable energy. Watch the LED glow as it's powered by free energy from the wind. No batteries required. Ages 6+ $11.95 [import alert: made in China]		Solar Energy Kit Capture the power of the sun....the energy source of the future. Kit includes: solar cell module - pre-wired; DC motor, also pre-wired. 4 attachments for experiments with motor including a fan blade. $16.95 [import alert: made in China]
Volcano Making Kit make a solid volcano with the mold & plaster provided. Paint and decorate it with lava flow, landscape, etc. Kit includes instructions and recipe to generate a realistic volcano erruption which can be simulated from finished project (using vinegar solution, not included). Educational fun for kids age 8 to adult. $10.95		Mini Ant Hill - from Insect Lore Now a mini home that ants can dig, at a price that you can dig, too! Features cutaway half-hill profile for easy double-sided viewing, certificate for free ants (mail-in fulfillment - allow 1 to 2 weeks), fun-filled facts, and locking lid for safety. #06050 $10.95
		My Pet Isopod Isopods are a great 1st pet for little ones. Kit contains: three or four isopods (pill bugs), plastic isopod home featuring magnifying lid, isopod bedding and food (bran meal), and complete instructions. They have seven pairs of legs! $6.95 More info about Isopods: check out Wikipedia � Another great source of info is the Tree of Life Web Project hosted by The University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Sciences � (Both of these links are to sites outside the scope of JJCardinal's web servers.)
Deluxe Aquasaurs� from Uncle Milton Prehistoric Pet Habitat - You don't have to be a time traveler to have real prehistoric pet creatures. With some water and a little bit of care, you can watch Aquasaurs come to life! Ages 6 and up. Adult assistance recommended; hatch & raise real prehistoric creatures. $32.95		Nature Kaleidoscope Kit Contains: kaleidoscope parts, assembly directions, 2 nature drawings to color, colored pencils, dried flowers and leaves, polished gemstones, glass marbles, and minerals! Handcrafted in the U.S.A., for age seven and up, and only $13.95 (temp out of stock)
Hand Polish a Petoskey Stone Kit JJ Cardinal's famous program is now available "to-go"! Kit includes everything you need to hand-polish a Petoskey stone in one handy little kit. Contains: Petoskey stone slab (from Michigan!) Wet/dry sandpaper (220, 400 and 600 grit) Polishing cloth Polishing powder Complete instructions All you need is water, a thick towel, a shallow plastic plate, and in no time, you’ll have a lustrous stone with the familiar six-sided Petoskey image. Polishing the Petoskey stone would be a great group or classroom project. $6.00 each		Bird Call Squeaker Kit For many, many years JJ Cardinal has conducted a fun event teaching young people about the communication techniques birds utilize. Now this "class" is available in a kit form: our famous Bird Call Squeaker! By twisting the wood dowel into the hole of the handle of the birdcall, you will produce a squeak most birds find irresistible. Contents: Wood dowel, Wood Handle, Neck strap, Vial of powdered rosin, Small square sand paper. $6.00 each [see also: our selection of professionally manufactured bird call devices �� ]
Live Butterfly Garden Watch and learn as your tiny butterflies turn into beautiful butterflies. Kit includes sturdy reusable airy butterfly garden chamber, certificate for five live butterflies that are delivered to your doorstep, butterfly food, and complete care instructions bursting with fascinating information. $24.99 (Live butterfly larvae sent by manufacturer in 7-10 days, additional $3 handling charge.)		Curiosity - Lady Bug Land From Insect Lore: a live ladybug kit for $19.95 that shows children the four life stages of the ladybug: egg, larva, pupa and beetle. Price includes live ladybeetles. Learn, raise, release. Enjoy.
Mini Butterfly Bungalow Watch, and learn as your tiny caterpillars turn into beautiful Painted Lady butterflies! $~~15.95~~, includes certificate for three painted lady caterpillars, mini-screened tent habitat is pre-assembled for pop-open, pop-up ease. $3.00 shipping/handling cost. (temp. out of stock) (This product includes a coupon to be sent to Insect Lore - mail-in fulfillment - allow an additional 1 to 2 weeks.)		Earthworm Nursery - from Insect Lore (left) You've never seen a nursery like this before! Hatch baby earthworms from real earthworm cocoons, then watch them dig and grow in the special greenhouse habitat. Kit includes: multi-chambered nursery, coupon for 15 - 20 earthworm cocoons (mail-in fulfillment - allow 1 to 2 weeks), growth soil, built-in magnifier, egg net and forceps, and fun-filled fact guide. $24.95
		Life Cycle Stages by Insect Lore Accurate lifecycle replicas of some popular creatures: ant, earthworm, butterfly, and frog (shown left). Also available (but not shown): Life Cycle Stages for ladybug, and praying mantis. $4.95 each
Botanicals Exotic Jungle A mini greenhouse with exotic seeds of carnivorous and touch-sensitive mimosa. Grow your own Venus Fly Traps and other rare, interactive plants. Includes: � Mini Greenhouse Habitat � Seed Planting Tray � Dehydrated Coconut Soil Substrate � Rake, Trowel, and Shovel � Instruction & Activity Poster � Seed packets Another swell project from the creative minds at Fascinations�. $34.95		Big Jug Insect Viewer by Uncle Milton a really cool, well vented, temporary observation dome with detachable feeding tower, built-in magnifying glass, bug guide, convenient carrying handle, and it is escape-proof! 7�" diameter, $12.95
Make Your Own Garden Stepping Stone Make your own garden stones with your own style. This kit includes stone sparkles that glow-in-the-dark, jewels, and everything needed to make one garden stone. Item #4510, $7.95		Paper Butterfly Mobile No cutting required; just punch out paper shapes, and layer as you please. Includes seven butterflies, metal hanging mobile, glitter and craft glue, and assorted sequins, beads, antennas, ribbons, etc. For age 7 to 97, $17.99 be creative, explore more!
Paper Making Kit Paper recycling is huge! Learn how paper is made and recycled. Create papers of different textures and patterns for making unique bookmarks, notepads, greeting cards and more. Small part warning (choking hazzard.) Recommended for ages 8 & up. Item #3679 $12.95		Planet Frog Live Frog Habitat - ideal for ages 6 and up. Watch as tadpoles transform into frogs. Includes coupon for live tadpoles by mail, vented, see-thru lid for safe easy viewing with built-in magnifier; break resistant and escape-proof design; easy to clean pond, and complete instructions. $26.95
Moon in My Room by Uncle Milton - moon has a highly detailed 3-D lunar surface that shows, either on command or automatically, the 12 main phases of the moon. Hangs on wall, requires two AAA and four AA batteries (not included), 10" diameter, $32.00		Solar System in My Room by Uncle Milton Imagine, a motorized colorful solar system with light-up sun hanging in your child’s bedroom. This item might inspire the little nipper to go into astronomy some day. Impressive 38" diameter; audio CD provides an instructive guided tour through the solar system. Remote control with build-in light pointer shut-off, provides nighttime fun. Requires four C and two AA batteries (not included), $42.00
KaleidoScope Making Kit Age 7 and up Build your own kaleidoscope. Create millions of dazzling patterns by filling in different trinkets into the object chamber. The fun is unlimited. $12.95		Fiber Fashion - Includes loom, knitting needles, and crochet hook, hundreds of colorful yarn, chenille and eyelash fibers, beads and spangles, designs and trendy accessories. Learn knitting weaving, and crocheting with this kit. Weave a purse, create a scarf; everything you need for fashion-forward designs. Loom size 11-13/16" x 9" x 7/8", contains lots of good stuff. $26.95
My Hand Print This kit contains everything to create one handprint memory. Age 3 to 93, $7.99		Design-a-Pet - Ages 5 and up Kit includes: 3, sand-filled pets; water soluble paints; paintbrush; adoption certificates, and habitats for your pets. Lizard, Fish, and Frog, $12.95
Grow Your Own Triops Triassic Triops - a fun project - hatch and watch the amazing life cycle of these ancient creatures; they live just 20 to 90 days. Kit includes 20-30 cultured Triops eggs, food, hatchery, gravel, instructions, thermo-strip. $10.95 (sold out - see Aquasaurs, above) �� Sara’s Triops - a customer, Sara Thompson provided us with this enlarged photo (about 10X) of her one-month old Triops. They live about two months, lay eggs and die only to start the whole process over again. Triops are pre-historic creatures believed to date back 350 million years.		They're alive! Just add water.
Insect Planet Realistic, wooden monarch butterfly. Assembled size 11" to 13�" in height and width! $8.95 butterfly		Amazing Mummies Cast, wrap, paint and display your own custom mummy in four easy steps. Kit includes plaster pack, mummy mold, sandpaper, mummy wrapping material, crafting sticks, rubber bands, 5 custom paint colors and paintbrush, mummy mask, and sarcophagus box. $23.95, age eight and up. [top]
Paint & Craft Choose either plaster butterfly or owl. Contains cast plaster figurine, acrylic paint, sparkle paint, beads, antenna, paint brush, and other items to create a masterpiece. Instructions also include how to recycle the box for a critter habitat! Age 6 to 96, $12.99		Rock-a-Doodle It’s more than just a box full of twelve rocks! Contains oodles of accessories and paints, fur, felt, wiggly eyes, and more. Age 5 to 95, $18.99
Mosaic Tile Tray 11�” x 7�” x 2” For ages 8 to 98! Fun project for one child to do, or a family to do together. Includes different size tiles, colorful glazes, and wooden base tray. $21.95		Easy-to-make Teddy Bear make a stuffed felted animal toy....learn stitching techniques (22cm tall) $11.95
Tie Dye Kit It’s easy to tie-dye with this kit because the dye in "built-in" to the "ties". Just wrap and tie the fabric, soak in water, undo the ties, and be surprised! Everything included for sewing and stuffing a teddy bear and a heart shaped pillow. There are extra dye-ties to use with your own tee shirt, sock, or other projects. $16.95		Beautiful Butterflies Decorate dainty butterflies and display them in your bedroom. Kit includes three 10” x 7” butterflies, three 2 �” x 1 �”, hanging string, sparkle paints, shiny rhinestones, gem dots, hair clips, and illustrative guide. Item #1206. $~~21.95~~ out of stock
Make Your Own Sock Puppet Turn three super-soft socks into a trio of fuzzy friends. Designed for pre-schoolers, and hours of creative play. Age 3 to 93, $18.99
If you would like to schedule an event for your scout group, child’s birthday party please give us a call. Programs can be held at our store or at your location - assuming you're local to our area. Call Louise for info (810-695-8733).
[top]
Bird House Kits - by Good Planet Bluebird houses are Ideal for bluebirds but enjoyed by chickadees, nuthatches and other cavity nesting birds too (entry hole 1�" diameter.). Design features: solid wood (pine or cedar), easy-open clean-out, plenty of ventilation to keep your house cool & drainage slots to keep it dry. Predator guards make it difficult for some critters to raid the box and damage eggs by extend the reach - they are effective so we include them on most all bird houses that we make. Kits are pre-cut, pre-drilled, with screws, nails, closure latch, sandpaper, and illustrated assembly plans. Tools typically required (not included): hammer, Phillips head screw driver. Note: Wood parts may contain knots and splinters.
		Flat Top Bird House Kit by GoodPlanet - includes solid wood pieces pre-cut, pre-drilled, lightly sanded, illustrated instructions, screws, nails, closure latch, & tiny sandpaper. Also: side panel clean-out, roof vents, drainage slots, & attached predator guard. Finished dimensions: 10�" x 5�" x 7" entry hole 1�" diameter. Tools required (not included): hammer, Phillips head screw driver. A great project for all ages! Available in �" pine (near left) $19.95 or 7/8" cedar (far left) $23.95 [pssst: the top-secret building plans for Flat Top Bird House Kit are right here]
		see our bird house kit assembled and "in action" 1 2 3 4 5
Bat House Kit from Coveside Conservation Features a simple, single chamber that holds up to 20 bats. Features an extended landing pad and an interior covered with screening to provide bats with a maximum foothold. Also includes echolocation slot to help the bats locate the cavity. It's a great educational tool for all ages. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions and information about bats, pre-cut solid pine and all the hardware required (nails & mounting hanger). Overall dimensions: 16"h x 8"w x 3-�"d. Boxed - great for shipping. Made in the USA. $26.95		The Fly-Thru Feeder Kit from GoodPlanet™ is a great general purpose feeder which can be hung or pole mounted. Just pour in a few cups of seed to attract a wide array of birds: cardinals, nuthatch, woodpeckers, goldfinch, chickadee and more! Featuring solid �" pine or cedar. Pre-cut parts, solid all-screw-assembly, holes pre-drilled, and edges lightly sanded. Finished dimensions: 9" x 5�" x 5�". $14.00 Here are our "not-so-top-secret" building plans for Fly-Thru Feeder Kit (shown above).
Nesbitt - a chickadee roosting box kit from GoodPlanet™ Provide a warm shelter for chickadee and nuthatch with this fun little kit featuring minimal ventilation to keep box warm. Hardwood perch inside; front opening clean out panel. Solid cedar parts are pre-cut, routed, lightly sanded, and holes pre-drilled. 7�" x 6�" x 7". For all ages capable of using a philips head screw driver (not included). Detailed assembly instructions. Made in the USA. $16.95 We also stock ready-made Roosting Boxes � �		.pdf file for plans to build the Nesbitt Chickadee Roosting Box Kit shown left. The Nesbitt: the history of this roosting box This is a story about Farnsworth T. Nesbitt. He was born in 1890 in Calumet, MI. Nesbitt had an interest in birds at an early age, but studied his favorites, the boreal and black-capped chickadee his entire life. Professionally he was a librarian in Calumet. Nesbitt was the first person to notice and document chickadee roosting behavior. At night the chickadees would roost inside the hundreds of small holes made by woodpeckers in his log home. These holes were oval spaces not much larger than the chickadee itself, and most nights the chickadees would return at the same time to settle in for the evening. Because the chickadees seemed to depend on the holes, Nesbitt could never bring himself to plug them. In 1930, Nesbitt’s love of the bird caused him to lead a strong campaign to make the black-capped chickadee Michigan’s state bird, but he was unsuccessful. In 1931 the American robin won the distinction. And so we dedicate this simple chickadee roosting box to Farnsworth Tobias Nesbitt. His observations helped us in the design, and its size. We recommend you place one or two (or hundreds) around or on your home to provide a warm spot for chickadees. Note/confessional: Ok, we'll fess-up...Nesbitt is a fictitious character. But he is based on bits and pieces of information about chickadees, roosting behavior, and the people who have observed and written about them.
Cute Little Squirrel Feeder Kit - a great, simple but effective little feeder ideal for a quick project. Build it in less than � hr - and that includes the time it takes to dig out your Phillips-head screw driver! Cob corn is secured by "spike" - we use � corn cob 'cuz it's just a lil' feeder. Fasten to post, deck or tree. 5�" tall x 3" wide x 3�"" deep. Now available in solid cedar or pine. $6.95 cob corn: $2.95/doz. (about 5 lbs. of corn) [more photos: Kits being assembled @ October 2005 Story Hour]		[pssst: the top-secret building plans for our Cute Lil Squirrel Feeder Kit are right here]
Leaf Press Kit from GoodPlanet. A great project to assist you in tree and plant identification. The secret? Place a leaf, flower head or other portion of plant that you wish to observe on a sheet of blotting paper (to absorb moisture as planet dries out). Cover specimen with another sheet of blotting paper and place it under moderate pressure. Here's where the "Leaf Press" comes into play: specimens can be stacked, sandwich style, with a piece of cardboard between layers (corrugated cardboard aids air circulation and drying process). Insert the "stack" into press and tighten wing nuts. Tip: experiment with many plant materials. Some plant stock that we think press well includes: Ivy, daisies, violets, pansies, ferns, clover, lilacs, baby’s-breath, buttercups, forget-me-nots, euonymus, and hydrangeas. Kit includes instructions, 2 boards 7-7/8" x 7-7/8", 2-�" machine bolts, nuts, washers, pre-cut cardboard and blotting paper. $16.95 More leaf press info (this link is to a non-commercial site outside of J.J. Cardinal.com) �		Two-sided Fruit Feeder Kit by GoodPlanet Kit is made from solid pine, edge sanded and pre-drilled. Stands 10" tall, 5�" wide. Roof spans 3-3/8". Holds halved fruit on 3/8" diameter spikes with perches. Includes screws and eye-hook for hanging. $8.95 [see our photo album for action photo ]
Our Kits are easy-to-assemble; all pieces are precut and predrilled, solid clear �" pine (or cedar if specified). Each kit includes instructions, appropriate hardware -- nails, screws, and hanging hardware when necessary. Makes great fund raising & educational projects for scouts and school groups. Wood parts may contain knots.		J.J.'s Tip for kids Stay curious, be constructive, and always seek out positive aspects of all things and all people. Oh...and try not to pester your parents too often to bring you to J.J. Cardinal's. Just do good things around the house, clean your room. Rewards come to those most deserving.
Okay, admittedly we're "low-tech" - but what we do, we do well, swift, accurate and honest. Your order should be in transit in less than 24-hours, often same day. [top]		See our orders page for more info regarding shipping carriers & nominal shipping charges

J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store �		12830 S. Saginaw St., Grand Blanc, MI 48439 810-695-8733
updated 07/24/10 illustrations, text & fun � J.J. Cardinal's 1992-2010		Home \| Books \| Feeders \| Seed \| Links \| Contact Us \| Photo Album

Bird House Kits - by Good Planet