|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 stretchy stuff, puzzles & brain teasers,
outside, wind-up action, kits & projects, wood kits (houses & feeders), puppets, too fun, dino-land, rocks & minerals, explore-more |
 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 |
 Pokey
Standing 4¾” 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 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 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! 5¾” tall x 5¼” wide. $8.95
|
 Want to see more? Visit www.mrbill.comLinks to fun Mr.
Bill Video Clips & Public Service Announcements |
 The original "Silly Putty"®
Kids back in the 50's and 60's had so much fun making early transfers by pressing Silly Putty® on the Sunday comics, now your kids can, too! In the familiar red Silly Putty® egg container, and still only $1.99. Made in the USA, perfect for ages 5+ related fun facts > |
|
more
vintage toys: on this page >
|
 Funtabulous Foam Safe and non-toxic foam that can be molded and shaped. After air-drying you can even paint it. And it can be reused! See directions to reconstitute Funtabulous Foam. 7½ oz. Made in the USA. Ideal for curious minds age 3+. $4.00 |
 Gyroscopes |
Q: Ok...I give - what's a gyroscope? (Link takes you out of JJCardinal's website) |
 The
Light Crystal PrismLearn the secrets of light and color. The Light Crystal gives you the ability to capture light, bend and divide light into a rainbow of beautiful colors. 4½ x 1½" and includes stand. $14.95 Made in the USA. |
 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. $14.95 |
 Bird-Opoly
Bird-opoly is a game based on our fabulous feathered friends. It has all the fun of a traditional property trading game with some fancy flying twists and turns. The game features backyard, rare, and favorite birds of North America and each Bird Deed is filled with fun facts about the bird. For ages 8 to adult - 2 to 6 players. Item #LATEBIRD. $24.95 |
 Hautman Brothers Collection
by Buffalo Games Cardinals 300 pieces - Great for kids. The pieces are easy to hold, and with the guide (included) easy to assemble. Size 21¼" x 15". $11.95 |
|
The World of Cats
- The ultimate cat lover's puzzle features every breed of house cat in the world! 1000
piece puzzle. #WHITE135 15¼" x 11½" x 2¼" $17.95 The World of Dogs - Every popular breed of dog in the world is pictured on this marvelous puzzle. 1000 piece puzzle. #WHITE141 15¼" x 11½" x 2¼" $17.95 Butterflies of the World - The world's most beautiful butterflies are identified by name and location in perhaps the most elegant puzzle Ernest O. Brown has designed. 1000 piece puzzle. #WHITE168 15¼" x 11½" x 2¼" $17.95 Woodpeckers - This stunning puzzle features all the common varieties of North American woodpeckers. The illusive Ivory-billed woodpecker may also be spotted among the trees. The woods are alive with other creatures-how many can you find? 1000 piece puzzle #WHITE343 15¼" x 11½" x 2¼" $17.95 |
more games and puzzles on our gift page > |
|
|
Jacob’s Ladder
* 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). (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
|
 SlotterPlay more than 20 classic tabletop coin games with this unique contraption- Basketball, Baseball, Football, Hockey and many more. Includes the official SLOTTER, flip card & instructions. Item #SLPP, $4.95 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Bamboo
Cup and Ball GameHow many times in a row can you catch the ball in the cup? Great toy to help build hand-eye coordination, and it's a nice toy size for small hands! 5" x 1½" ideal for ages 5+. Item #7814. Imported. Just $3.25 each (temp. out of stock) Please respect our $10 minimum web-order (+s/h). |
 BamboozlersBamboo Puzzles How fast can you disassemble and reassemble the Bamboozlers? 3 styles: #6499A, diamond shape, or #6499B, square shape; specify style when ordering please. Ideal for ages 8+ to adult. $5.95 Why Bamboo? Bamboo is a large grass that grows quickly in different climates around the world. It is an ideal, sustainable, plentiful and eco-friendly species to replace wood, which will help make our earth greener and last longer. |
 top |
|
 Design Your Own Kite Have a hands-on kite building experience. Kit includes” 1 plain sail sheet 26” in length (with the two spine rods, dihedral joint and bridal already attached), 2 spare rods, 1 reel with flying line/cord, paint, paint brush, and detailed instructions. $14.95 |
 Nature
Color Glasses Use these glasses to discover your surroundings through the colorful lenses: red, blue and yellow. These “primary” colors ban be blended to produce “secondary” colors. A great way for children (recommended for age three and up) to learn their colors. $11.95 |
 Timmy
Bird Timmy is a small "ornith-opter" that is great for indoors as well as outdoors. Just wind it up and let it fly. Durable wings that won't tear. (wind-up flying toy). Item #78000, ideal for ages 4+. $9.95 |
|
|
Folkmanis - The world-famous, award-winning 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, $5.50 |
 Jack
Rabbit Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5545, $7.00 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Fawn finger
puppet by Folkmanis Fawn, 8” long x 3” wide, $7.00 |
 Firefly
finger puppet by Folkmanis Firefly guaranteed to light up 50,000 times! That’s 140 times a day for a year. Shiny wings, and cute expression, and what child does not love fireflies? Firefly, 6” long x 2½” wide, $11.00 |
 Opossum Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5549, $7.50 |
 Dutch Rabbit Finger Puppet by Folkmanis #5556, $7.00 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
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. $46. |
 Harbor Seal
- hand puppet - 19" tall workable mouth, #2537. $34. |
|
great companion to new children's book: Merry Christmas Crow |
 Jack Rabbit - hand puppet 21" tall, workable mouth,
movable head and arms, back opening, #2429. $36. |
 Donkey
hand puppet 16" long, workable mouth, "kickable" back legs #2415. $34. |
 Peacock
- hand puppet 18" tall, workable tail, #2539. $ |
 Small Wooly Sheep - hand puppet 15" long, workable
mouth, #2535. $23. |
| top |
|
Classic Toy Tin
Series -- Nostalgic Toy Tins
|
 Tiddly Winks in a Classic Toy
Tin
|
Dominoes in a Classic Toy Tin
|
 Marbles in a Classic Toy Tin
|
Skip Rope in a Classic Toy Tin
|
 Jumbo Jacks in a Classic Toy Tin
|
|
 Metal Kazoo - If you can hum...you can play! $1.95
import alert: sadly, not made in USA (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) did you see the other retro toys? |
Authentic American Wooden Pick-up Sticks |
 |
 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 WoodcraftPull toys feature wobble wheel construction so they bounce and tip as they roll along. Approx. 5” long. "Quack-a-long" Duck #73101 Happily made in USA. $16.00 |
 Train
Whistle by Maple Landmark WoodcraftAll aboard! Get your train whistles here. Model #41297, great four-tone sound, 8½” long. Made in USA. $4.75 (temp. out of stock) (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Mites Made by Maple Landmark Toys, in Middlebury, Vermont, USA. 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 3.5" 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. (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Maple Topsby Maple Landmark Toys - Vermont, USA. 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: $10 + shipping) |
 Natural Unfinished Oval Bead RattleThe rattle is 2.5" long and the oval ends measure 1½" X 2½". The beads float freely on the pegs for maximum sound and movement. Item #72151. Made in USA. $9.50 (temp. out of stock) |
 C-BloxSimple and Compact; you can’t put them down. Made in Vermont (ah, go-on, we know you want to chant with us right now: "USA-USA-USA!!") 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-YoYou, too, can have the whole world in your hands with this yo-yo, by Maple Landmark Toys, in Middlebury, Vermont. (That's right...another fine product made in the USA.) $4.95 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Folding Cribbage A product revival by Maple Landmark Toys - Vermont, USA. 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 5½" long and 1¾" high when closed. $18.95 |
 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 11½" diameter. Choking hazard for children under age three. Includes complete game instructions, $33.50 |
 ChessMade in the USA by Maple Landmark Woodcraft. The Basic Chess Set is complete with 15" square by 3/8" thick hardwood board and 32 chess men. And what is really cool is each playing piece has its corresponding move pattern engraved its bottom. Maple "light" and cherry "dark" pieces measure approximately 1" square at the base and range from 1¼" to 2¼" tall. #50316. $52.00 |
 Two
Player Chinese Checkers Made in the USA by Maple Landmark Woodcraft. The Two Player Chinese Checkers board is a little different (from 6-player game above) and a lot special. The game play is the same, but the board is abbreviated. It is crafted out of cherry and the playing board measures approximately 7½" wide by 12" long by 3/4" thick with instructions laser engraved on the back. Includes 20 marbles, 10 each of 2 different colors, and a marble storage pouch. #50310. $24.00 |
 Teach
& Play Tiles - Animal & Vegetable by Maple Landmark of
Vermont (yep - right next to New Hampshire...USA!) These tiles are great for
classification, grouping, sorting or matching. This set of 12 wooden cards measures
2¼" wide by 3½" tall and are thin enough to be used as flash cards. Sets are
printed with one theme on each side. $12.95 |
 Natural
ABC Simple Block Set Simple and clean ABC blocks. Using a kid-friendly font, these letters are burned into 1¾" hardwood maple cubes. Ideal for children 12-months and older. 16 blocks to set. Made in USA. $22.95 |
 Tic-Tac-Toe
- The maple board is approximately 4½" square, with a clearcoat finish for
protection and durability. Colorful pegs, die-cut squares, model #50105. Made in USA.
$10.00Learn 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. Made in USA. $9.50 (temp. out of stock) >> |
 |
 My First Blocks by
Maple Landmark Woodcraft21 Piece - Crafted from locally sourced, sustainable harvested maple hardwood, the My First Blocks Set of Montgomery Schoolhouse building blocks contains 21 pieces in 8 different shapes. The base block unit is 1" and each dimension of all blocks is a multiple of 1" so blocks can be stacked cleanly and uniformly. Each set comes in a sturdy box for storage. No finish on blocks, but each is sanded smooth. Box weighs 2.5 pounds. Made in USA. $27. |
 Mosaic
Triangles by Maple Landmark Woodcraft 96 piece colorful wooden triangles in limitless ways for never-ending design possibilities. Triangles measure approximately 1½ inches on short side. Design suggestion sheet included. Age 3 and up, model #42601. Made in USA. $19.50 |
(Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
But where
are the famous |
| top |
|
 Rub-On Transfers Transform everyday objects (cutting boards, boxes, planters, or picture frames) into decorative works of art. The package contains an assortment of 25 butterflies and moths. $8.95 |
 Wildlife Track Mold Kit - comes with
everything needed to create real animal track impressions. Use the mold template to create
a border around the wildlife print, mix the plaster and pour into the mold template.
Includes "Art Plaster", mold template & interpretive card. item
#TMK, $7.95 |
 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 |
 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. $16.95 Potholder Loom Deluxe (new size kit) Contains enough materials to make six pot holders, $26.95
|
|
  Bag
‘O Cotton Loops Contains enough loops to make two colorful potholders, or may be used to make more knotted scarves. For use with Potholder Looms (above). 100% cotton, and made in USA! $7.50 (enuf to make 2 pot holders) Large Cotton Loopefill packs: loops for eight pot holders! $19.95 |
 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 - Made in USA. $14.95 |
Made in the
USA. Pretty nice, huh? |
(Web order minimum: $10 + s/h) |
  Golden
Guide: Dinosaur - A classic guide for all ages. Paperback, 160 pages, full color
illustrations. $6.95Peterson 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 (Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
See our "gifts page" for more Eyewitness DVD series > |
 Wooden Dinosaur Model This kit has an awesome realistic skin-like appearance and will provide hours of fun. A full 24” long when complete! No tools or glue required due to its easy inter-locking assembly. $10.95 |
| top |
 Glow-in-the-Dark DinosaursParts snap together; no gluing needed. Inc. dinosaur handbook and instructions. Choose from stegosaurus, velociraptor, tyrannosaurus, or triceratops. $8.95 each Not suitable for children under the age of three due to small parts. |
 |
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! (Minimum web/charge card order: $10 + shipping) |
|
 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 10½" Width 7" Depth 1¾". $6.95 |
|
 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 |
|
 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 |
|
More books & reference > |
| top |
|
 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. Made in USA! $7.95 (Please
respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight) |
 Children's
Binoculars6 x 35 binoculars featuring center focusing adjustment, carrying strap. 6x magnification. Nice starter binoculars for little hands: light-weight. (Styles may vary slightly from picture; available in red or blue). $12.95 |
  The
Original Uncle Milton's Ant FarmIn 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 |
 Ant
Works - Illuminated Gel Ant Farm by FascinationsIlluminated 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. Coupon to receive live ants by mail (allow 2 weeks). Ant farm 6" x 6½" x 1¼". $32.95 (temp. out of stock) enlarged
view |
 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. $18.95 |
 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. $14.95 |
 by Tweber Proudly made in the USA and "Kid Friendly and Parent Approved" since 1986. Toys to Build Active Minds and Bodies Make sure your little one has all the backyard explorer gear they need. These nature observation stations help children of all ages to observe and learn about some of the most amazing creatures, up-close! They are ruggedly designed and provide maximum ventilation for the temporary visitors within. |
 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 |
 Large
Clear-View Nature House The clear sliding side panel provides easy access and a clear unobstructed view to the items placed inside: perfect for when it is time to release your catch back to nature...and the other side has stainless steel screening for ventilation. 5" x 6½" x 7". Sturdy, tough, and nicely made right here in America. $21.95 |
 "Wee Wittl" (as
in little, the way a child may say it) Nature Houseby Tweber Made in the USA out of hardwood, stainless steel screening, and has a rugged earthy green nylon carrying strap. Red plug (front door) allows access into and out of the chamber. 4½" x 2¾" x 2¾". $8.95 |
 Heavy Duty Insect/Butterfly and Pond Nets Made in the USA by Tweber These nets are perfect for the pond or for catching butterflies. They are high-quality, rugged, easy to grip, and flexible. They feature a spring steel wire hoop and strong nylon netting. Available in two sizes: |
 Wooden Children's Butterfly Net
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 |
Look, learn, wonder, enjoy … and share for a lifetime! |
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") >> |
 Pan For GoldReady to strike it rich?! This hands-on science kit will teach you how to pan for gold just like a real gold miner! This exciting treasure hunter's kit includes a 10" prospector's pan, two bags of "pay dirt" with pyrite (also known as fool's gold) nuggets inside, mining tools, and much more. You will learn all of the secrets to panning in the full-color adventure guide. Plus, there is an activity booklet with 10 fun games, puzzles, and challenges to solve. Discover with Dr. Cool - model #PANGOLD. $19.95 |
|
|
|
|
 Amber Exploration KitHunt for prehistoric creatures trapped inside ancient amber in this earth science kit. Contains five real pieces of raw amber, a workstation tray, and six special grades of gemstone polishing sandpaper and a magnifying glass, and information on how amber is formed. Dr. Cool's amazing model #AMBER. $29.95 |
 Golden
Nugget Dig Kit Excavate three genuine golden nuggets just like a real treasure hunter with this hands-on science kit! Buried inside the digging brick treasure hunters will think they hit the mother lode as they uncover three genuine pyrite specimens. Includes an excavation tool, brush, magnifying glass, and a full-color information guide so that you can learn all about gold. Plus, there is an activity booklet with 10 fun games, puzzles, and challenges to complete. #DIGNUGG $14.95 |
 Ocean Fossil Dig KitExcavate three genuine fossil specimens with this hands-on science kit! Buried inside the digging brick you will uncover a real sliced and polished Ammonite, a clam fossil and a gastropod specimen. Includes an excavation tool, brush, magnifying glass, and a full-color information guide so that you can learn all about the ocean fossil specimens you will find in this kit. #DIGOCEAN $14.95 |
 Gemstone Dig Kit Excavate three real gemstone specimens with this hands-on kit. Treasure hunters will uncover a real amethyst crystal, a quartz crystal and a tiger's eye specimen! Includes an excavation tool, brush, and magnifying glass and a wonderful full-color information guide (written by teachers) so that you can identify and learn about each gemstone. #DIGGEM. $14.95 |
 Bug Dig KitExcavate three genuine bug specimens just like a real paleontologist. Contains a real scorpion, spiny spider, and fortune beetle buried inside a beetle-shaped digging block and they are perfectly preserved inside acrylic so that you can examine each of these incredible creatures from all sides. Includes an excavation tool, brush, and magnifying glass. Plus there is an activity booklet with 10 fun games, mazes, and puzzles to complete. Dr. Cool's product #DIGBUG. $14.95 |
 Dino Dig Kit Excavate three genuine dinosaur fossil specimens just like a real paleontologist with this incredible hands-on science kit! Includes an excavation tool, brush, magnifying glass, and a full-color information guide so that you can learn all about dinosaurs and the specimens you will find in this kit. #DIGDINO $14.95 |
"If you have a child that is really into rocks |
 Make.do "find & make fun activity kit - Flowers" Makedo is a reuseable system for creating things from the stuff all around you. It aims to inspire social change through the playful creativity of a hands-on experience, not a "virtual" experience. Perfect for young minds age 5+ 8. $14.95 |
<< Backside of "Make.do" flower kit package shows exactly what is included...it's the sort of product geared to help kids THINK...expand their imagination...adapt...stretch. It may be one of their first "think outside the box" experiences. |
 Make.do
FreeplayHave you heard about make.do "activities"? Make.do Freeplay is a set of connectors for creating things from stuff, the stuff that is all around you. Bag contains 33 reuseable parts in a resealable bag. Visit the mymakedo.com for inspiration and see what others have done with their parts. Essential for kids 5+ yrs of age. $11.95 |
|
 Crystal Growing Kits
Choose from Aquamarine & Diamond, Emerald & Amethyst, and Citrine & Ruby. Watch these 2 amazing crystals grow before your eyes in just a few days! Just dissolve the pre-mixed chemicals in water and brilliant crystals will grow right before your eyes. Complete instructions included. Specify crystals desired at time of order. $16.95 Caution: this set contains chemicals which may be harmful if misused. Read cautions on individual containers carefully. Not to be used by children except under adult supervision. |
 Owl Puke What was once an owl's feast is now a world of discovery. With each "sanitized" pellet you can reconstruct real skeletons. The kit comes with two, real pellets, magnifying glass, wood dissection stick and a work mat with bone sorting chart. A surprise in every pellet. Just plain educational fun, and made in the USA! #01900, $15.95, age 8+ |
 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 10¾" x 11". $11.95 |
 EIN-O Box Kit: Geothermal Energy
- explore the energy from the earth's heat and its geothermal energy with this nifty kit.
$9.95 Not suitable for children under the age of three due to small parts. |
 Splatter
Art - Turn a toothbrush into an art tool and create lovely greeting
cards. It's cool. Part of the famed: 'Create Your Own Series' item #3631. Creative
fun for virtually all - ages 5 to adult. $6.95 |
 Recycled Bottle Light
- Help save our environment by recycling plastic bottles. Turn them into enviro projects.
Just use a little bit of imagination. You can make them into super cool decor! Age
5+; item #3747.$12.95 |
 Design Your Own Paper Fans Design your own paper fans by following the simple template and choosing your own special attractive colors. Item #4565 is ideal for ages 8+. $12.95 |
 Paint Your Own Kitty Bank
This cute little kit contains a useable white clay kitty bank, paints, paint brush, complete instructions, and design ideas. Purrrr-fect for ages 8+. $12.95 |
 Enviro Shopping Bag
You'll be able to stencil patterns and create a unique canvas enviro shopping bad designed by you with this nifty kit that includes stencils, paints and cool ideas! Help save the Earth by using fewer plastic bags the next time you shop. Ideal for ages 3+. $10.95 |
"Please respect our web-order minimum: $10 + freight" Perhaps...you're wondering why we have a minimum order policy? It's simple economics - by the time we process an order, package and ship the item we have incurred salary costs, credit card transaction fees, facilities costs (heat, lights, phone, a/c, insurance, snow shoveling, lawn mowing, etc.). While we love to accommodate smaller orders with the same degree of enthusiasm and professionalism as we treat all customers, there comes a point where we need to ensure our survival. For us, that's $10. |
[ |
|
 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 (refills below ) |
 Green Creativity: Paper Recycling
Learn to recycles old paper into your own handmade art paper. It is fun to experiment with different materials in papermaking. Kit includes: mesh tray, screens, paper, paints, paint brush, silk flowers, beads, envelopes, wool, ribbons and detailed instructions. Enough supplies for a variety of craft projects. Age 8+. $12.95 |
 Solar
Print Paper These sun-sensitive sheets produce beautiful prints from natural or man-made objects. The paper undergoes a chemical change when exposed to sunlight. Images appear in minutes and are permanent. Refill to above kit, contains 12 - 5” x 7” sheets and one print frame holder. $8.95
|
 Sun
Art Paper Kit This kit use the energy from sunlight and water to create a shadow print on sun-sensitive paper. Natural objects like flowers, leaves, shells or some man-made objects are all you need to make beautiful and unique prints. Includes 15 - 4" x 6" sheets of paper and a clear acrylic sheet to hold your art in place. Ideal for adults and kids age 6+. Made in the USA! Item #88050. $6.95 |
 Triassic Triops®
Hatch your own ancient creatures! Unchanged for millions of years. Ages 8+. Just add water! Triops grow up to 2" and live 90 days (+/-). Includes disposable growing pond, gravel with conditioner, thermometer, pipette, Triops eggs and food, of course! $11.95 "Triops are prehistoric monsters also known as dinosaur shrimp that millions of kids have brought to life simply by adding water to eggs that are in suspended animation!" says Toyops - makers of our Triops kit. |
See demo of this fun project on YouTube. |
 Electric BugIt'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 |
 Sock Monkey Kit Make Pee-Jay monkey with easy-to-follow instructions. Kit includes: two socks, buttons, cotton floss, felt, flannel, pom-pom, embroidery needle, and all the materials to make Pee-Jay's little brown bear friend. Two kits in one! $14.95 |
 Origami Safari Create your fun safari world with printed animal patterned paper. Contains a pop-up play scene, more than 30 sheets of 7 different animal hide patterns, 4 different butterfly patterns printed papers, moving eyes, and detailed instructions. $6.95 |
 My Nature Journal: the kit Construct a 22 page journal out of pre-cut papers; learn how to bind a book and you can use this kit as a template for future projects. Color enclosed icons to decorate the book cover and inside; use stickers to identify subject chapters, and learn how to record nature observations. For age 8 through adult, and $10.95 |
 Earthworm
Nursery - from Insect Lore - 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 |
 Mini
Ant Hill - from Insect LoreNow 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 |
 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 USA, for age seven and up, and only $13.95 |
 Birds Kaleidoscopes Colorful songbirds wrap the outer tube while a burst of colors appears inside as the tube is turned. 3¾” long x 1¾” in diameter. Paper, made in the U.S.A., $8.50 |
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. $ |
 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. Made in Michigan. $6.00 [see also: our selection of professionally manufactured bird call devices >> ] |
(Live butterfly larvae sent by manufacturer in 7-10 days, additional $5 handling charge.) More info below right > |
 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. |
 |
This is an example of the fulfillment you receive when ordering butterflies from Insect Lore - makers of the Butterfly Garden projects shown above. These day-old Painted Lady butterfly caterpillars are shipped to you with their food source in cup provided. See each caterpillar's transition as it matures, changes into a chrysalis, and finally emerges as a Painted Lady butterfly! After observing your butterflies, experience the joy of releasing them into your backyard! During extremely hot or cold weather, delivery of live larvae may be delayed. Available only in the Continental U.S. and Alaska. Note that a $5 shipping charge applies for delivery of live caterpillars. Ideal for ages 4 & up. |
|
 The Metamorphosis of a Dragonfly Set of 5 life cycle models are included: egg, nymph, elder nymph, final molt, and adult. Age 4 and up, $10.95 |
|
 The
Metamorphosis of a Bee Set of 5 life cycle models are included: egg, larva, pupa, emergence, and adult. Age 4 and up, $10.95 |
 4-D Vision Snail - 8
" long model contains 30 detachable organs and body parts and display stand. Also
includes Illustrated assembly guide and description of the anatomy along with some fun
Q&A to test your knowledge. Fine detailed sculpting with hand painted parts. Collect
the series - great gifts for education or future entomologist! Ages 8+ $28.95 |
 4-D
Vision Frog - 6 " long model contains 31 detachable organs and
body parts and display stand. Also includes Illustrated assembly guide and description of
the anatomy along with some fun Q&A to test your knowledge. Fine detailed sculpting
with hand painted parts. Collect the series - great gifts for education or amphibian
lovers! Ages 8+ $28.95 |
| [top] |
 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 |
If
you would like to schedule an event for your scout group, child's birthday party please
give us a call. |
|
Bird House Kits - by Good PlanetBluebird houses are Ideal for bluebirds but enjoyed by chickadees, nuthatches and other cavity nesting birds too (entry hole 1½" 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. Features: side panel clean-out, roof vents, drainage slots, & attached predator guard. Finished dimensions: 10¾" x 5½" x 7" entry hole 1½" diameter. Tools required (not included): hammer, Phillips head screw driver. A great project for all ages! Available in 3/4" pine (near left) $19.95 cedar (far left)
$23.95 |
 GROUP PHOTO Info: |
|
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 3¾"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 ¾" pine or
cedar. Pre-cut parts, solid all-screw-assembly, holes pre-drilled, and edges lightly
sanded. Finished dimensions: 9" x 5½" x 5¼". Made in USA. $14.00
|
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. 7¼" x 6¼" x 7". For all ages capable of using a Philips head screw driver (not included). Detailed assembly instructions. Made in the USA. $19.95
We also stock ready-made |
  .pdf file for plans to assemble the Nesbitt
Chickadee Roosting Box Kit shown left.The Nesbitt: the history of this roosting box
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 one-half-hour -
and that includes the time it takes to dig out your Phillips-head screw driver! Cob corn
is secured by "spike" - we use just a 1/2 corn
cob 'cuz it's just a lil' feeder. Fasten to post, deck or tree.
5¾" tall x 3" wide x 3¾" deep. Available in solid cedar or pine -
sometimes even in poplar. Only $4.95 each.cob corn: $3.95/doz. (about 5 lbs. of corn - see our seed page for details) [more photos: Kits being assembled @ October 2005 Story Hour] |
|
 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",
2½" machine bolts, nuts, washers, pre-cut cardboard and blotting
paper. $16.95More leaf press info (this link is to a non-commercial site outside of J.J. Cardinal.com) > |
[see our photo album for action photo ] |
 Our Kits are easy-to-assemble; all pieces are precut and
predrilled, solid ¾" thick 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 |
 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. See our orders
page for more info regarding shipping carriers & nominal shipping charges[ |
When visiting those "web-only" sites that are filled with all sorts of mindless merchandise, we often find they have used our fine photographs to merchandise stuff they sell. In most cases we take pictures of products ourselves. We don't farm it out to some foreign webdesign shop. Louise sets up a tiny "photo-shoot" studio in her ity-bity backroom, and SNAP. So anyway, this web-monkey gets a bit disturbed when they rip off our pictures. Its not really good for their karma - not the sort of thing their parents taught 'em. Still, we're delighted you made it this far...the bottom of a really long page filled with toys we actually have in-stock, and selected to offer in our store....to customers who are our friends...because the product has some redeeming value. We hope you feel the same way about J.J. Cardinal's - and thanks for letting us "vent". |
| J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store® |
|
12830 S. Saginaw St., Grand Blanc, MI 48439 810-695-8733 |
updated 03/28/13 illustrations, text & fun ©
copyright J.J. Cardinal's 1992-2013
|
Home | Books | Feeders | Seed | Links | Contact Us | Photo Album |
The original
"Real Solid Liquid" was developed in the 1940's a synthetic rubber compound by
General Electric labs. Engineers combined boric acid with silicone, and discovered the
"polymerized" substance had amazing attributes including it's ability to bounce.
When no other industrial or commercial application was found, Silly Putty was marketed as
a toy for kids in the early '50's.
Back
by popular demand, and made in the USA 
Penguin
- hand puppet - 13" tall, animate his head and beak. #2177 (baby penguin separate).
$28.
Raven Puppet
J.J.s Ocarina Instrument Kit
Tooth
Fairy Box by Maple Landmark 
Friendly
Loom - Lollipop Knitting Loom 
Soft Dinosaurs - Dino Figures
Dinosaur DVD 
Peterson’s
Rocks and Minerals 
A Golden
Guide to Rocks, Gems and Minerals 
Simon
and Schuster’s Guide to Rocks and Minerals 
Real Fossils
- the ultimate science kit
Ultimate
Volcano
Shark Teeth Dig Kit
Potato
Clock Kit 
Hand Polish a Petoskey Stone Kit
Live Butterfly Garden
The Metamorphosis of a Beetle (Dynastes
Hercules) 
Frog Life Cycle Stages by Insect Lore
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. 