In this difficult economy why do we still stress the arts?  We believe that there is a window of opportunity to encourage a child's love of and interest in the arts, be it music and or visual arts.  Here are some helpful books, instruments and tools to encourage a love of the arts in your home.  Also you will notice a number of pop up books. I collect pop up books and find them really enjoyable. So they are included here just for fun. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I do.  Consider simple musical instruments, an art kit, a fun CD or a good book when purchasing a gift for a child. Preteens and teens really enjoy art kits and artistic posters.  And for me, I always enjoy a good pop up book. They really are great to look at and try to figure out just how they did that. :)  I especially recommend Color Surprises.