For building: Since he was 4, I've been taking DS to Home Depot and buying (1) scrap lumber from the cutting area, (2) odd ends of PVC pipe and other pipe and tubing scraps from that cutting area, and (3) "oops" cans of paint (color not quite right). All of these can be had for pennies, sometimes for free. I also give DS all the glue/nails/screws/sandpaper he wants. I also let him use our power drill as long as the bit is at least 3/8-inch (really hard to hurt himself), and, with supervision, I let him use a very small power saw that a really cool Home Depot worker helped us pick out (less than $25). I also have a large tarp and let him paint his projects when he thinks they are ready.
He always wears safety glasses. I do the best I can to give minimal to no guidance on his building projects. Some strange and wonderful things have resulted, all of which he loves much more than any kit project I ever imposed on him.
Our neighbors think we are insane.
Have fun with your cool kid!
Sue
