gift ideas  (excerpted from Present Perfect)      

To kids that like to scope things out, give a periscope, microscope, kaleidoscope, or geoscope.

Pleasant Company's American Girl collection features dolls with a history. Each doll is dressed in period clothing. Storybooks, furniture, accessories, craft kits, clothing, and matching girl-size outfits are available separately. Phone: 800/845-0005. Internet: www.americangirl.com.

What little girl wouldn't love a doll as unique as she is herself? My Twinn dolls are specially created to resemble your individual child. Phone: 800/4MY-TWINN (469-8946). Internet: www.mytwinn.com.

Give a "treasure" box or toy chest. A locking box in which to store special valuables will win the heart of any young child.

For the inventor in him or her, give a personal "invention box" filled with nuts, bolts, gears, string, washers, wood scraps, nails, screws, and the like. Throw in such take-apart items as windup clocks and watches; rotary phones; and battery-powered toys and appliances.

Arrange for dance, swim, karate, gymnastic, or music lessons.

An electronic keyboard is a fun way to introduce a young person to playing the piano. Kids enjoy the percussion features and various instrumental sound options. Parents enjoy the peace and quiet made possible through plug-in headphones. And batteries make the keyboard portable.

Modeling beeswax, roller beetles, and Topsy Turvy Trolls, are just a few of the toys and activities available from HearthSong. Phone: 800/382-6778. Internet: www.hearthsong.com.

Present Perfect: Unforgettable Gifts for Every Occasion is filled with gift ideas for children and everyone else on your gift list. In addition, you get tips on gifting etiquette, shopping, wrapping, special presentations, and much, much more. To order the book, click here.

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Have any gift ideas for five- to eight-year olds you'd like to share?