Allotments 4 All

...sorry, I can't remember the official name (even though I'm taking part this year!)

Anyway, I've been told that the group which gets neglected the most is boys aged 9-14 so that's what I'm going to do.  I only volunteered today and my boxes have to be in by Friday which only leaves me tomorrow to get some things.

Does anybody on here have any experience of doing these?  What sort of thing should I put in?  I've read the cans and cannots on the website but I'd like to add little extras.  I was thinking perhaps a couple of inflatable footballs, would they be allowed?  I'll add the usual pens, pencils, notepads, toys etc etc but I want to add a little extra if you see what I mean?

Thanks :)

I used to do these years back when the boys were little and always aimed at boys of this age group as I knew it was the neglected area.

Not sure what the rules are now, but I would put in pens, pencils, eraser and notebook and always a pencil sharpener, both to serve its purpose and for the fun novelty.

Then something like a tennis ball or a few of those small rubber bouncy balls, a small jigsaw, ballooons, bubbles, little fluffy toys, little teddys (that even 9 year olds will appreciate if they have nothing) Picture books, little hand held puzzles, A plastic cup maybe character themed, (Ikea sell little brightly coloured cups, plates, cutlery ect)
Then of course personal stuff, toothpaste and toothbrush, (mayybe a few toothbrushes for all of the family) soap, and depending on where you are sending the box, a woolly hat, scarf and gloves.

Not forgetting of course a few sweet treats!

Oh and a little note.
I used to also always put a little photograph in of my boys so that the child recieving the box could maybe make some sort of connection to who had sent the gift.

Thanks honeybee, really appreciate the ideas.  I hadn't thought of jigsaws so I'll definitely look for those tomorrow.  Says no chocolate or bubbles on the website but sweet treats are allowed :)  I won't put a pic of myself in as they'll probably send it back saying, 'sorry, no halloween items allowed'  :P

You said it girl.  ;D ;D ;D    :P

Oi! ^^

Hmmm, I may need a bigger box ... I seem to have bought rather a lot ...  :-\

WITCH box are you after then Sammy.  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Well i had never thought of doing this but have one ready to take down Sat morning, did a girly one (feel guilty now) but might do a boy one to if i can afford a few more bits.
I put a soft toy, paints, colouring book, pencils, sharpener, necklace, sweets, toothbrush/paste, felt tip pens and a ball, its amazing what you can get into a shoe box !!!

We always have our tutor groups doing this and I have a list of suitable products at work. Will have a look tomorrow.