Computers with access to the Internet are great for making Christmas gifts. Often your public library and your child’s school will give you access to a printer if you bring your own paper. By using a search engine and writing select words/phrases a large variety of gift ideas can be found. For starters try these words: home made gifts to make – Holiday crafts – crossword puzzles.

One gift idea is to put together a folder or binder of crossword puzzles that are found on the Web and then printed. You can choose seasonal puzzles or search for puzzles on a topic enjoyed by the receiver of the gift. Senior citizens and children particularly like a selection of puzzles that are put in a special booklet for solving.

Some sites to check out:

• http://www.kidcrosswords.com
• http://www.newsword.com

Another idea is to make bookmarkers and door knob signs as gifts. A child can color, cut out, and cover with clear contact paper or laminate for a durable gift. Also, coupons make great gifts and these can be personalized. My favorite is to make stationary. Print some designs on solid heavy paper and trim to note size with scissors or a paper cutter.

Some sites to check out:

• http://kidexchange.about.com
• http://www.billybear4kids.com