For our children! (and our wallets)

Toys are so expensive these days and it doesn't help when said toys are marketed to our children in every facet of their lives. With the down economy and our dwindling funds there is a cheap and fun alternative that actually requires some creativity and skill. It hurts to say no to your offspring when they want the newest toy but I have found a solution.

Paper Models!

What is paper model you ask?

Take a look

Classic Optimus Prime because.....well duh he is awesome!

Once complete Optimus can transform from robot to truck!

MARIO.

Yep now you can crush mushrooms whenever you please.

So here is the story you can just go out to Google Images I have set the link to look for Optimus, to change the search delete the name Optimus and then just add the item you are looking for. Seriously I was amazed to see what was out there. I found HULK and other Marvel super heroes, My Little Pony, Transformers, Cars, Star Wars, really there is a chance that you could find anything you are after.

What makes these paper models so neat is that they are free and that you can find a variety of skill levels from very basic to extreme complexity. Oh did I mention its free! You can print in color or save the color and print in black and white, just have the kiddies color the model with their crayons. You'll need some scissors and glue/tape and you are set.

Here are some links to sites that are dedicated to Paper Models:

http://papercraftparadise.blogspot.com/search/label/papercraft (varying degrees of difficulty)

http://www.creativecloseup.com/100-exceptional-free-paper-models-and-toys (a lot of detailed complex models with some simple stuff mixed in)

http://www.thetoymaker.com/2Toys.html (the best for simple kids stuff)

Enjoy! I hope that this is fun and saves you some money that can be put towards your childs college education that I know you have been saving for.