I ran across some articles on educational gifts that might be of interest:

• Educational toys? Try DIY science experiments instead, USA Today article by Liz Szabo, 13 December 2011. Szabo gives some simple, inexpensive experiments you can do with your kids aged 3 to 10.
• Simple gifts of learning spark creativity, curiosity in kids, USA Today article by Liz Szabo, 13 December 2011. Szabo gives suggestions for some inexpensive gifts that will spark creativity and curiosity in young children.
• This Year, Give Them Brains, Scientific American article by Anna Kuchment, December 2011. Scientists’ and educators’ picks for fostering inquiry for younger and older kids.