40th birthday gift idea

A Mother's Day gift that lasts

A few years ago for Mother's Day, I gave my mom a small canvas bag with "You're the Greatest Mom" painted on it. Inside, I placed many folded pieces of paper starting with the words, "You're the greatest mom because you...." I completed each sentence with things she'd done and said, and examples she'd set for me. She told me she still goes to her "greatest mom" bag every time she needs an emotional boost.

Kathy Browning Virginia Beach, Va.

Leftover decorations spark "crazy party" theme

My 14-year-old daughter and her friend found a drawer full of leftover party goods and held a "crazy party" with dinosaur hats, Valentine cups, 40th birthday napkins, and Christmas plates. The girls served their guests a variety of food, and everyone dressed up in crazy outfits. They played several popular party games, but mixed tap their rules.

Cindy Lund Valley Center, Calif.

`But it's my turn!'

Parents often have children take turns to be first at things like picking a dessert or choosing a movie. We put a twist on this method. Whoever gets first choice for favorite things has to be first to take a bath, brush teeth, etc. This completely stopped their "But it's my turn!" arguments.

Gaynell B. Barras Loreauville, La.

Homework strategy works for boy with Attention Deficit Disorder

I am the mother of a 10-year-old with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. To get him to do his homework, we allow him one hour of play after school. Then we set the timer and he studies for 15 minutes. After a 20-minute break, he studies 15 more minutes, then takes another break. Now the homework gets done without a hassle.

Sandy Ferguson Ottumwa, Iowa

Make genealogy research a family affair

Researching my family history proved tittle-consuming. To speed up the process, I involved my extended family. Each aunt, uncle, cousin, and their families picked a different ancestor to research. Now during family gatherings we share any information we've found. This has brought us closer together.

Sherry Thompson Nashville, Tenn.

Crafts without the mess

My boys enjoy crafts, but I don't want a big mess. Origami is the solution. Folded paper projects keep them busy, and the shapes can be decorated with stickers and metallic-gel pens. They use their art for thank-you notes, birthday cards, Valentines, or Christmas greetings.

Pam Del Castillo Overland Park, Kan.

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Do you have an innovative solution to a problem in your family, neighborhood, or community? Family Network would like to hear from you. Write to: Family Network, Better Homes and Gardens[R] Magazine, 1716 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309-3023. Please keep replies to 100 words or less. Letters may be edited for space. All letters become the property of Better Homes and Gardens magazine. We will pay $50 for each idea published, if you provide your Social Security number.