Building blocks for the kids

A good way to save on building blocks for the kids is to get them for free. Yeah, that's right, free. Next time you're at a building supply store, go to the area where they cut lumber, and see if they have any ends ready to be thrown away. Take them home and sand them well, and if you want you can add a layer of non-lead paint. They're sturdy and big, and they're in sizes your child probably doesn't already have in the standard kids' set.