Idea Exchange: Provide kids with educational entertainment

I create word search and crossword puzzles to occupy the older children in the reception area who find the free coloring books "babyish." I like to make puzzles with animal-related themes, such as "What every kitten (or puppy) needs" (e.g. microchip), "Baby animal names" (e.g. bear = cub), and "Animal groups" (e.g. geese = gaggle). Many Web sites can help you create the puzzles for free; I like www.awesomeclipartforkids.com

Debbie Bess, office manager

Carson City, Nev.